Many British people dream of living in France, some make the "big move". A significant proportion of those who come to live in France return to England within three years because they cannot settle. There is an art to living in another country, which some people never quite understand. If you a planning to live somewhere other than your own country, here are a few suggestions that might make tall he difference, and help you settle successfully in your new home.
Do your research as to officialdom, health services, financial affairs, taxes et cetera before you leave your own country. Also, be aware that things in the country where you are going to live may not work the same as in your own country. In rural France, if you want to get married, report a death, build an extension to your home, know about local plans, complain about your neighbour's dog, report a burglary or virtually anything at all you speak to the mayor of your local commune, a very different procedure to most countries.
If you are going to live in a country that speaks a different language to your own, go to conversation classes before you leave your own country. If you already speak the language, and you are a little rusty, a few conversation classes before you leave your own country will do you no harm either. If you try to speak a little of their language, most people will help you.
Be aware that there are regional differences in language, and that accents differ according to area: for example, Parisian French is very different to the French spoken in South West France, and both are completely different to the French spoken in Normandy. So do not worry if you do not understand the language, at first, your ear will attune in time.
Never assume that manners and courtesy are the same as in your own country. Watch and listen carefully to how the natives speak to and treat one another, For example, in France, a shop is a private space and, therefore, you wish the shopkeeper and any waiting customers, "Bonjour Mesdames et Messieurs", or "a good day madams and Sirs".
People may behave quite differently to the way you are used to, do not misinterpret their actions. Many people say the French are a bit stand offish, they are just very private people. They are very friendly and helpful, but perhaps not as effusive as some nationalities are, and it will take a while to be invited into their homes.
Even if you know someone's first name, do not use it unless they tell you that you may, many cultures are rather more formal than the English or the Americans for example.
Do not learn all your culture from films, and television, e.g. Never shout "garcon" to summon a French waiter, despite what old films might have you believe, it is extremely rude, the equivalent to shouting "Boy!" in an English or American restaurant. The correct means of summoning the waiter is to catch his eye, or if you cannot do that, to wait until he is passing nearby and say (never shout) in a moderate tone "S'il vous plait, Monsieur?".
It is possible these days to watch the television, and listen to the radio of most countries. on the internet. Watching a country's television, and/or listening to its radio stations is one way to learn about its culture. You might also try to read some of the country's newspapers online too.
See if there is an expatriate club, near to where you are going to live. Other ex-pats are an invaluable source of information, and help. An ex-pat forum on line is another a good source of information and advice; one that you can consult and join before leaving your own country .
Before you actually leave your own country, research the country in which you are going to live thoroughly. Do not expect people to behave just as they would in your country. Be observant and always remember that you are a guest and behave accordingly. You will settle better, and mor quickly, if you prepare yourself properly, you will suffer less of a culture shock, and avoid the gaffes, that so many people make when they go to live in another country.