Colorful outdoor cafe scene in a quaint French village, featuring a green canopy, vibrant chairs and tables, and lush plants. The background includes stone buildings with blue shutters and signs, evoking a charming and relaxed rural atmosphere. Overlaid text reads: 'Life in Rural France & Beyond - Exploring French Life, One Village at a Time.

Bonjour! I’m Kylie…

I live in the beautiful Poitou-Charente region of South West France having made the move back in 2016. Think of me as your local Francophile living the French dream in rural France with my hubby Richard and border collie Lottie.

I started this site to help you discover this wonderful part of France. I’ll show you the best places to stay, tours to enjoy, and restaurants to eat at. I cover everything about life in France, from visiting wineries & chateaux to shopping at the daily markets and boulangeries.

So whether you’re planning the vacation of a lifetime or looking to move to France, I’m here to make things easy.

Learn more about my French Life!

What you’ll find here

A red boat on the river Garonne with the cite du vin in the background

French City & Town Guides

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the main square in Bordeaux with a tram some people and the hotel de ville

Travel Planning in France

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The ramparts of the city of Carcassonne in France

French History & Culture

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Moving to France

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Life in France at Christmas

A beautifully lit, traditional half-timbered building in what appears to be a European village during Christmas. The building is adorned with festive string lights, wreaths, and red shutters, creating a warm, holiday atmosphere. In the background, another building is similarly decorated with lights in a blue and purple hue, enhancing the magical ambiance of a winter wonderland scene.

7 French Towns That Are Like A Winter Wonderland at Christmas

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The marketplace of a Christmas Market in France with a white Xmas tree wiht red baubles, half-timbered buildings and people walking around

15 BEST Christmas Markets in France in 2024

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A grand château illuminated at night, with its ornate spires and towers lit up in a golden glow against a deep blue sky. In the foreground, Christmas trees decorated with white string lights are arranged along the pathway, creating a festive and majestic scene. The contrast between the historic architecture and the holiday lights evokes a magical winter atmosphere, characteristic of France during the Christmas season.

Christmas in France is Unlike Anywhere Else – Find Out Why!

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Two gingerbread house Christmas tree ornaments hanging from a piece of string

21 Fun Facts and Traditions about Christmas in France

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A Christmas chocolate log sat on a white plate and decorated with icing sugar with a little santa on the top

12 Traditional Christmas Foods in France (Festive Guide)

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A grand cathedral illuminated in vibrant pink and blue lights at night, with festive decorations surrounding a tall statue and a brightly lit Christmas market stall in Mulhouse, France.

9 Must-Visit Fairy Tale Christmas Markets in the Alsace Region

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The Podcast For People Who Love France! 🇫🇷

From the depths of rural France join me, Kylie, as I guide you through the trials and tribulations of French country life.

Hear the stories from other expats, how they’ve started new lives, set up businesses, renovated properties or retired in this wonderful region of France.

A podcast cover with a map of France, icons, and "The Life in Rural France Podcast" text.

And discover hidden gems to visit, the stories of France and its fascinating history and the culture of the French that has so many people fascinated.

Filling your life with a little dose of French sunshine one episode at a time.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

Latest on the blog

Are You A True Francophile With a Passion for France? Take the Quiz To Find Out!

Does your heart skip a beat for baguettes, Bordeaux, and beautiful French villages? Do you love to spend time in Parisian cafés or look for hidden gems in Provence.

Find out just how deep your love for France really goes. This quiz will reveal whether you’re a die-hard Francophile or just dipping your toes in French water.

TAKE THE QUIZ >>>