Three Move to France from Philadelphia

If you ever read Enid Blyton as a child, you’ll remember the escapades of George, Dick, Anne, Julian and Timmy. Well, move over Famous Five! It’s time for the adventures of the McCamley family, whose second night in France resulted in a midnight trip to the local hospital. Mike recalls that eventful night in the video above.

A sudden emergency

“We were expecting to get right into French life and retirement and all of that. In the middle of our second night in our rental house, I heard Lorraine yell to me upstairs and I thought, oh, am I dreaming?”

Mike and Lorraine’s quick thinking during that emergency visit to Rodez hospital is a testament to how unpredictable life can be when you move abroad.

A smooth healthcare experience

Thanks to French healthcare, the McCamleys found themselves in good hands. “The French health care system really took care of us.” Despite cultural differences, such as the lack of air conditioning in hospital rooms, Lorraine found comfort in the high-quality care provided, and post-surgery she received excellent home nursing. “We had home health care nurses come and that was an adventure!”

While the incident added stress, Mike saw a silver lining: “Her accident was almost like a blessing in disguise because it forced us to slow down.”

From exchange year to retirement: a family’s French connection

It was their son Tyler’s love for France that inspired the McCamleys to make the leap to the Aveyron. “I did an exchange year in France. The exchange year got cut short by about three months because of Covid.” Despite that, Tyler’s experience with French culture and language paved the way for the whole family’s adventure, and the Aveyron’s rolling hills charmed them on a visit: “We really just fell in love with the Aveyron area.”

A lower cost of living and a fresh start

One of the most appealing aspects for Mike and Lorraine was the cost of living: “The cost of living is probably half to two thirds of what we were paying in the US.”

A trusted guide through the bureaucracy

The McCamleys found French Connections HCB through a Facebook recommendation and were quick to consult with Richard, the company’s founder. “Everything escalated once we hooked up with Richard because suddenly we realised this could really happen.” The team helped them manage their visas, insurance and even buying a car. “One thing that was hugely helpful is that Richard figured out a car, and it was waiting for us at the airport.”

Settling in: a new chapter

Now settled into their rental home, the McCamleys are adjusting to the relaxed pace of the Aveyron. “Every day is a new adventure,” says Mike, whether it’s learning the language or adapting to cultural differences. Looking ahead, they are working with us to find and renovate a permanent home: “Richard pointed out that it made more sense to have boots on the ground to find a place to live permanently.”

Mike also shares a personal connection to France’s past: his father was very badly wounded in France in World War Two. “It’s a miracle I’m here.”

Their advice for anyone considering the move

“Be excited about change, embrace the chaos and the struggle, and surround yourself with ‘why not’ people who will be encouraging and help support you through.”

Throughout their journey, the McCamleys relied on French Connections HCB for guidance. “Richard has been so easy to trust, and it has been so comforting to know that there’s somebody there.”

To hear more stories like the McCamleys’, head over to our YouTube channel for interviews with other movers, Q&A sessions and practical advice. And if you’re ready to begin your own adventure, book an initial consultation with our team.

We look forward to making your move to France easy!