A lot of people express the desire to move to another country once they reach their retirement, and that makes a lot of sense. After spending our lives going to the same job every day, we often feel like it is time to take some fresh air and venture towards greener pastures. France is a very popular destination for people in their later years, and there are many reasons behind that. Great food, excellent wine, beautiful weather and lovely landscapes are just some of the reasons people leave countries like the United Kingdom to find a better way of life. However this is an adventure that is best done with someone by our sides, as moving to a new country alone can be a bit intimidating. We just need to find that special someone who will take the dive with us and follow us into our next adventure.
Knowing yourself
When you’re looking to find a life partner, you want to be with someone who understands you and who enjoys similar things that you do. Some people say opposites attract, but the relationships that last longest do seem to occur when the two people have a lot of things in common. The first thing you want to do is to know yourself first. What do you enjoy doing, what are your principles and beliefs, and what are your favourite hobbies? All of those things will factor into determining the sort of partner you are looking for. In our case, we want to travel and settle somewhere else, so let’s look for someone who wants to do the same thing.
Meeting like-minded people
If you feel a passion towards France, then why not try to meet people who have the same interests? French movies, French literature, and even the food & drinks culture; those are all part of why people are fascinated by the French lifestyle. So why not join a food club for example? You will meet people who enjoy cooking, and anyone who is truly into culinary activities will have desires towards the food culture of other countries. You will meet people of all ages, but when it comes to wine appreciation, it is often something that people in their later years are into. After all it takes years to develop a good understanding of such complex drink. Of course it doesn’t have to be food club, there are plenty of other cultural aspects such as literature (join a book club) and films (join a foreign/alternative movie club). You might just meet that special person and develop a good friendship, which could blossom into something more.
Online dating
Of course beyond meeting people in the traditional way, you can always use online dating to get in contact with potential companions. However, it is important that you use a dating website that is more suited to your needs. If you’re going into retirement, then using an over 60 dating site would be a wise choice. Those sites tend to act as communities where you can be in touch with like-minded people closer to your own age. We’re not saying that you shouldn’t use traditional dating sites where younger people go to, but the truth is that you’re going to have a better time if you are meeting with other mature singles. Young people can be quite harsh and rude when it comes to dating, and you will face less aggravation and rejection if you stick to people your own age. People who are single in their 60’s have more in common with each other, and it wouldn’t be surprising if you managed to meet someone with the same passion to move to another country.
Dating advice
Advice#1- Just remember to take your time when you’re talking to people online; after all you are in the comfort of your own house using your computer, and no one can rush you into doing something you don’t want to do. Just follow your own pace, take times in between talking to people to reflect on the situation, ensuring nothing sounds out of the ordinary.
Advice#2- Don’t announce right away that you’re looking to move to another country when you’re using dating sites. This could tip off scammers that you have some money. Instead just talk to people about your interests and wait until you are sure you can trust them.
Advice#3- Moving to another country because you met someone on an international dating site is a process that should take place in stages. You need to know the person is right for you on the long term, as you don’t want to travel then end up alone because things didn’t work out.
Advice#4- Share your dating activities with your friends and family. We know it’s an intimate subject but sometimes in life you need a second pair of eyes to make sure what you’re doing is right.
Ultimately, finding a life partner to travel with is no small thing, but if you go out and reach out to the right people and take the time you need then who knows? You will most likely find that special person in your life who can follow you and support you throughout your great French adventure.
