Not being a country known for their clubs and societies, networking through friends in the commune and workplace is a very French way of life. As they understand it themselves they seem to have no problem accepting it in foreigners who come to live here. Very early on, our French estate agent directed us to the bar in our small town where 'the English meet' knowing it was where we could 'network' for information and friendship. At the New Year's Eve celebration in our village there were 19 British residents and friends in the party of about 200 people attending the meal in the Salle De Fetes. Our Mayor welcomed 'the English' and made sure that we were all sitting with other English speakers so we could enjoy the evening in a relaxed manner. I am not advocating for a minute that you restrict yourself solely to meeting and mixing with people from your own country, or English speakers in general, but don't shun them when your language skills are on the lower level! So this, tip number one, will ease your early weeks here, whether or not you continue to see other fellow expats socially or not.

Make your Estate Agent work for his money. It's very unlikely that the estate agent you dealt with won't have some knowledge of the English language, if, indeed, he isn't an English speaker to start with. In general, the agency fees in France are high but my experience and that of a number of friends has been that the agents do expect to do more than those in England, and I assume many other countries as well. So use them to really oil the wheels of your move. A simple phone call that they could make for you from their office to some official or other, or to arrange a builder to call, or even get you the name of a local dentist in an emergency! All these would be quick and easy jobs that could save you a lot of worry and most would do for you with pleasure. Their local knowledge, living in the area, is invaluable. They could contact the electricity or water company. Accompany you to the Notaire's office for signing documents. Many people end up having a good relationship with their estate agent, if only in the short term, so don't be too quick to let them go - just think of that cheque you'll be handing over!

Keep a dictionary in your handbag. In the early months especially, when sentences elude you, key words are the essence of communication in shops, with builders, utilities etc. Get a small fairly lightweight dictionary (rather than a phrase book) which will fit easily into the handbag or glove compartment. You'll use it all the time. Whether you're in the DIY shops looking for screws or trying to buy wood at the builders merchant's. If you're in the Pharmacy hunting for wasp sting remedies or need to know how to add a trailer insurance at the Assurance company office, it will come in handy - with the French often taking it from you to put a French word into English! There is no disgrace in not being able to speak French. But not to try is unforgiveable. The sight of a dictionary coming out of your bag or pocket sends all the right signals. You are trying. And it can prove to be informative and amusing for all involved. Laughter, after all, is a universal language! But this brings me of course, to the next tip;

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