In this episode of Worlds Collide, host Viktoria chats with Paul, the creative mind behind the popular Instagram account "We Got Frenched." Join them as they explore Paul's adventurous journey of moving to France from Southern California. With a backdrop of the picturesque Loire Valley, Paul shares the pivotal moment that led him to take the leap into expatriate life during the pandemic, trading the sunny shores of Newport Beach for the charm of French countryside living.

Paul recounts his experiences of settling into a new culture, navigating language barriers, and the joys and challenges of renovating an old winery. He candidly discusses the emotional rollercoaster of uprooting his life, the logistics of moving with a dog, and the delightful surprises of French holiday traditions, including the enchanting Christmas markets. With humor and insight, he reflects on the cultural differences he encountered and the importance of understanding one's "why" when making such a significant life change.

Paul's journey is not just about relocation; it's about reinvention and embracing the unexpected. He also introduces his book, "Get Frenched: A Practical Guide to Inventing Your Life in France," which serves as a helpful resource for anyone considering a move abroad. Whether you're dreaming of a new life in France or simply curious about the expat experience, this episode is packed with valuable tips and engaging stories that will inspire your own adventures.

Support this Podcast by leaving a 5* review or if you feel extra generous you can buy me a coffee.

Paul's Website wegotfrenched and his Instagram.

You can find Paul's book here or on his Website.

(00:00) World Collide is a podcast about moving abroad

(01:56) Holiday season is around the corner. Actually, holiday season already started

(02:19) Paul was living in Southern California when he decided to move to France

(06:37) How did you make the move from France to Florida? Okay. So tell me about it. How did you then made the move

(09:52) How did you end up in France where you are now

(12:22) You bought a winery and your living rooms and kitchen are in caves

(14:49) You got your dog certified as a service dog in France

(17:05) Your language skills are a lot better now after moving to New York

(21:14) The French are very proud people, and if they don't speak the language well

(24:18) Get French A practical guide to inventing your life in France

(30:01) You can buy The Evil Empire on Amazon if you're anti Amazon

(31:22) Emily started writing about France on Instagram when she was in France

(33:59) How do you celebrate the holidays abroad? Um, well, France has these Christmas markets

(37:56) Down south, people don't want to go to church on Sundays

(38:49) Do you have any other things that it was hard for you to adjust in France

(42:38) You say you bought your car in Germany because it's cheaper there

(45:18) So did you, um, ship with a shipping container or. No. I would have preferred not to

(48:04) Americans really like their big houses, you know, their personal big yards

(49:21) People always like to talk about moving abroad and then they never do it

(53:52) A lot of people want to move because of the political climate in the US

(58:29) Paul had a squeaky chair on this episode. I didn't even notice when we were recording

Keywords: Moving to France, Expat Life, Loire Valley, Cultural Adjustment, Language Barriers, Holiday Traditions, Renovation, Get Frenched, Expat Advice, Personal Journey, Life Reinvention, American Expatriate, French Cuisine, Christmas Markets, Community, Adventure.

🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!