Every Retiree's Dream: How We Live Half-Year in France, Half in the US

Kasha and Kelly left behind corporate jobs and a 9–5 grind to build a life split between the U.S. and a tiny French village nestled in the Alps. In this intimate conversation, we explore how they scouted rural France on a shoestring, learned French from scratch, became part of a close-knit community, and now spend their days biking, gardening, sipping rosé, and playing pétanque under the southern sun. 💬 They share practical advice on visas, Workaway, buying a home in France, and what it really takes to feel at home abroad. If you're dreaming of early retirement, dual-country living, or a slower, more intentional life — this is your roadmap. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Intro 01:10 – Meet Kasha & Kelly: how it all started 03:30 – Falling in love with France through cycling 06:00 – Learning French later in life: Rosetta Stone, music, Netflix & immersion 10:00 – Workaway experiences & living like locals 14:30 – Buying a home in Sospel: a spontaneous decision 18:00 – What village life really feels like (neighbors, fêtes, aperitifs) 22:00 – How language changes everything — and everyone 27:00 – From romance novels to full immersion: learning through living 33:00 – Daily life in Sospel: gardening, pétanque, cycling, community 39:00 – Visa logistics, renting out their US home, and living part-time 45:00 – The seasonal rhythm: why 6 months works perfectly 50:00 – Advice for anyone considering the leap 55:00 – What they wish they knew about French, culture & mindset 1:01:00 – French expressions they love (and one with cats 😄) 1:04:30 – Wrap-up & looking ahead to part two ⸻ 🇫🇷 Want to feel more confident living in France? Join the next cohort of Survive & Thrive in France, my practical French course for real life in France. Not textbook French. Real French for real integration, with simple lessons, live coaching, and a community of like-minded learners who are also building their French life. https://feelgoodfrench.com/french-cou... Not textbook French. Real French for real integration. ⸻ 💌 STAY CONNECTED Join 1700 readers to Feel Good French Weekly Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/379V0 Join our lovely Facebook Community – Retiring in France: / 1erebwqt9q Check the FREE ressources on Feel Good French Website: https://feelgoodfrench.com ⸻ À bientôt, Déborah, your teacher. Ps: If you want Kelly's list of French novels, send me an email here: [email protected]