From New York to France - Keith's moving abroad adventure

Worlds Collide The Podcast about moving abroad

Find Keith's Substack "Leaving The US" here.

💬 Show Notes

Bonjour and welcome to the first episode of Worlds Collide in 2025! Host Viktoria kicks off the new year with an exciting conversation with Keith, who shares his journey of moving from New York to Nantes, France. This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone considering a move to France, including the logistics of setting up a new life abroad and the surprising benefits of house sitting as a way to save money and explore new areas.

Keith's story is one of adventure and adaptation, as he navigates the challenges of learning a new language, finding community, and dealing with the infamous French bureaucracy. He discusses the cultural contrasts he experiences, from the quirks of French cuisine to the unexpected disco vibes of local McDonald's. Keith also shares insights into the expat community, the importance of making connections, and the role of language in feeling at home.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the realities of living in France, from the everyday language hurdles to the broader cultural dynamics. Keith's reflections offer a balanced view of the highs and lows of expat life, providing practical advice and encouragement for those dreaming of making France their home.

If you have your own story to share or want to connect, reach out to us at [e-mail] or find us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok @worldscollidepod. Don't forget to follow the podcast for instant updates on new episodes. Until next time, keep colliding with new worlds and expanding your own horizons.

Keywords: France, Nantes, Expat Life, Moving Abroad, Cultural Adaptation, House Sitting, Language Learning, French Culture, Expat Community, Personal Growth, Travel, International Living, Community Building, French Bureaucracy, Relocation, New York to France, Moving to France

(00:00) This episode of Worlds Collide is about France moving to France

(01:57) Keith lives in a city called Nantes in France

(08:33) You mentioned that you're looking to switch from house sitting to apartment ownership

(11:25) Why did you decide to stay in France?

(15:27) How do you make friends in France?

(19:01) Do you go to a lot of rugby meetups in France

(22:23) How do you learn French?

(24:26) So back to the language. The real challenge for me remains to be social kind of casual conversations

(26:39) What is it that you do for work that you can move abroad

(30:38) You left New York because you wanted to explore the places

(32:52) You can apply for permanent residency after five years in France

(37:37) You know, French food is funny because it's so well documented

(42:25) You struggled with French the most when you first arrived in France

(43:36) Getting bank account set up in Portugal requires patience and persistence

(48:04) You have to learn to speak French again after years of not practicing

(51:46) When I think back on that moment, it was humiliating

(54:15) How do people react to Americans in France when they visit

(56:27) Keith Christensen's blog focuses on music, culture and food

(01:02:20) You spend so much time thinking about all this relocation

(01:05:13) Victoria: I researched what Cobra stands for, and it really has omnibus

🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner!

Show notes created by https://headliner.app