stay. Think about the location of your new home. It is easier to see people and have them visit you if the journey is less complex and time-consuming. Being close to a ferry route or an airport with direct flights to a UK airport that is close to your family will make life much easier. It is also better to visit little and often, so going for a long weekend or a few days every few weeks rather than for a longer trip just twice a year. Modern technology makes keeping in contact much easier. Don't shy away from email or webcam ? they open up a whole new world. With webcam, for example, you will be able to see your family, and in the case of young children keep up with them as they grow. It makes the pain of separation less sharp. Language Learning a language when you are older can be more difficult, and it can become a great source of frustration. Try and start learning before you go. Also, if you are a couple retiring, do it together and make it a joint project. But do remember, that learning a new language takes time, and it is can take longer the older you are. Free time Having so much free time after living a working life can be wonderful, and at first being in France is likely feel an extended holiday. But for many people, as time goes on there is a growing need to give