Riviera on the Rocks

In episode #9, we're bringing you part two of our two-part episode - the good, the bad, and the ugly. As a follow-on from the "good stuff", we're sharing our thoughts on some things we consider "the bad and the ugly". We love France, but from the smoking culture to the inconsistencies in getting things done administratively, several things can frustrate you often. Check out this episode and let us know if anything surprised you!.

In episode #8, we're giving you the tea on the good, the bad, and the ugly of living on the French Riviera. This is part one of a two-part episode and we're covering some of the "good stuff" you won't be able to learn about on the blogs or the Facebook groups. From treating you as a whole person (healthcare) to all the things to be discovered (smaller towns, neighborhoods, and cocktail bars). Take a listen to find out if we cover anything you may have been curious about and learn why Alexis is feeling a little bit stressed.

In episode #7, we're talking about some of the important activities you need to live well abroad - where you put your money, how you manage that money and of course - finding a place to live. These may seem like basic activities but be prepared to think differently about how you approach these things. From the limitations of opening multiple accounts (e.g, savings, brokerage or retirement etc.) to building your dossier to secure an apartment you still could be denied for. These are important things that can positively or negatively impact your experience living abroad, if you don't do your due diligence. So take a listen to learn what you can expect and hear about Carley's first experience with expat privilege.

In episode #5, we've got our first guest feature - Ms. Dailahn James. That's right, Alexis' mom is in town and we knew we had to get her on the pod to share her "Coming to France" story. She talks about what prompted her move, what it was like moving with a kid and some of the bumps in the road she experienced moving back in the 80s. So take a listen to find out how some things haven't changed, even after 30+ years and what Carley's showing gratitude for in "What's on the Rocks?", this week.

In episode #4, we're sharing some personal experiences on the healthcare system in France. Access to healthcare and the cost of that care is usually a top priority for folks who are looking to move abroad. France is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world, so we're giving you an insider's perspective of what you can expect if France is on your move-abroad list. So check out the episode to hear why French healthcare gets its rep, and find out how Carley got a ringside seat to see the French standing on business, even when it's in service of someone else, in "What's on the Rocks?" this week.

In episode #3, we are helping you get yo’ mind right to move abroad. There are many tactical things you have to do before you move abroad - getting the right visa, saving the coins, etc., but who you are as a person and how you will approach this experience are just as important. Are you a planner or a risk taker? Are you easily flustered when things don’t go as you expect, or can you roll with the punches? Moving abroad comes with new opportunities, different challenges, and experiences you might not have considered. Your ability to embrace these pivots can significantly impact your move abroad journey. So check out our takes on getting your mind right for these international streets and find out why Alexis is about to have hot sauce in her bag in What's on the Rocks? this week. 

In episode #2, we're giving you the real real about what you should consider if you want to move abroad. There is a lot of information on the internet about what to do, how to get started, where to go etc. but a lot of it is either wrong or irrelevant to your situation. Moving abroad is a deeply personal choice; you owe it to yourself to put in some work if you really want to make it happen. How do you want to support yourself? Are you retired or do you need to earn an income? Do you have transferable skills to bring with you or do you need to learn new skills? What kind of lifestyle do you want to live abroad? Are you looking to move abroad for the short term or long term? Ask yourself these questions if you're even remotely thinking about moving abroad because the answers will significantly impact the type of life you will have in the country you choose. We get a little roasty in this episode but it comes from a supportive place. So check out our take on making this decision and find out why Carley is pensive about the level of accessibility for differently-abled folks, in the city in What's on the Rocks? this week.

…and we’re back! It’s Season 2 of Riviera on the Rocks and in the first episode of the season, we’re talking about what it feels like, one year into our move-abroad journey. We’re coming off a hectic summer of visa renewals and the *really*  warm temps but we’re still here (*maybe*) and excited about our upcoming episodes. While we welcomed the much-needed cool-down on the weather front, it’s an episode where we reflect on the myriad of changes we’ve experienced in one year. There are a lot of laughs, and some tears but as always, we intend to show you the *real* of life abroad. So take a listen as we say hello to October, reflect on what success looks like after one year, and why Alexis is quick with the clap-back when the French stand on shaky business, in What’s on the Rocks this week!