Moving to France is an adventure filled with excitement and challenges. While the allure of French culture, cuisine, and landscapes is undeniable, adjusting to life in a new country can sometimes feel isolating. In those moments, hearing from others who have taken the same leap becomes incredibly reassuring. The following blogs, written by fellow American expats, are like companions on the journey. They offer practical advice, personal stories, and thoughtful reflections to help you not just navigate life in France, but truly feel at home here. These storytellers share the good days and the hard ones, making their experiences feel honest and familiar. You’ll likely find comfort, clarity, and maybe even a few answers in their words.
- 1. The Barefoot Blogger – Small-Town Charm
- 2. Oui In France – Honest & Relatable
- 3. Your Friend In Paris – Paris Know-How
- 4. Américaine in France – Smart & Straightforward
- 5. The Good Life France – Culture & Community
- 6. Lily Chérie – Elegant Everyday Life
- 7. The American in Paris – Legal & Lifestyle Tips
- Moving to France? Want to Speak French With an Expert Private Tutor?
- 8. ELSKE – Creative Living
- 9. French or Faux – Family & Provence
- 10. French Word-A-Day – Words & Warmth
- Your Bonus Blog, Written by a French Serial Expat
- Best Blogs For & By American Expats in France… C'est fini!
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1. The Barefoot Blogger – Small-Town Charm
Needless to introduce Deborah Bine; she’s somewhat of a legend as an expat blogger. Deborah chronicles her adventures as an American expat living in Uzès, a charming town in the South of France. With over a decade of stories, she shares her experiences exploring France’s renowned landmarks and hidden treasures. Her engaging narratives provide a window into the joys and challenges of expat life.
Can’t-Miss Article: : “Moving to France: American Expat Tips” — In this post, Deborah shares down-to-earth advice for those dreaming of a move to France, from paperwork to mindset. It’s the kind of practical-meets-personal post that makes her blog so beloved.
2. Oui In France – Honest & Relatable
Diane, the voice behind Oui In France, offers a candid look into life as an American living in France. Her blog, launched in 2012, delves into topics ranging from cultural differences to language learning tips. Diane’s engaging storytelling makes complex topics accessible and relatable.
Can’t-Miss Article: “I Stopped Worrying About These Things When I Moved to France” — A heartfelt post where Diane reflects on the expectations she let go of after her move. It’s an honest reminder that thriving in France starts with softening your own pressure.
3. Your Friend In Paris – Paris Know-How
Your Friend In Paris is one of the most trusted and well-curated blogs for anyone navigating a move to France. Established in 2009, it was created by seasoned expats who know the journey inside out. They’ve lived the excitement, the administrative challenges, and the emotional ups and downs. More than just a blog, it’s also a boutique relocation agency that offers expert support with immigration, housing, and French bureaucracy. Whether you’re retiring, relocating for work, or starting fresh, this site brings clarity, warmth, and experience to the table.
Can’t-Miss Article: How to Make Friends in Paris — This guide is everything a newcomer needs. It is thoughtful, up-to-date, and genuinely helpful. Organized around real interests and hobbies, it makes it easy to find your people in Paris. From creative workshops to book clubs and casual conversation over coffee, you will find smart, grounded advice for building meaningful connections in your new home.
4. Américaine in France – Smart & Straightforward
Ellen is a French teacher turned expat blogger who writes with clarity, precision, and just the right dose of humor. Her blog Américaine in France is packed with practical advice, whether you’re navigating French paperwork, learning the language, or figuring out cultural nuances. She’s not afraid to dive into the nitty-gritty details that many blogs skip, and her posts are always easy to follow.
Can’t-Miss Article: Things You Can Do in France but Not in the United States — A fun and eye-opening list that highlights how life in France differs — and sometimes delights — in unexpected ways.
5. The Good Life France – Culture & Community
Janine Marsh, the British author behind The Good Life France, started her blog after a spontaneous trip to northern France turned into a complete lifestyle change. What began as a personal project has grown into one of the most respected English-language websites about life in France. It appeals to readers around the world, including many American expats, thanks to its friendly tone, honest reflections, and mix of practical guides and cultural insights. From daily life in rural villages to navigating French etiquette, the content is thoughtful, detailed, and full of heart.
Can’t-Miss Article: Expats in France: Who Are They? — A compelling look at the diverse people who have made France their home. This article is a great reminder that every expat journey is unique and that community can be found in many forms.
6. Lily Chérie – Elegant Everyday Life
Lily, an American blogger living in France since 2020, shares her personal experiences and insights into embracing the beauty of life’s everyday moments on Lily Chérie. Her blog covers topics ranging from fashion to travel, offering a glimpse into the refined aspects of French life.
Can’t-Miss Article: “French Lifestyle: What It Really Means and How to Embrace It”— A beautifully written piece that captures the essence of living à la française — from how the French savor time to their love of simplicity and detail.
7. The American in Paris – Legal & Lifestyle Tips
Stephen Heiner, the voice behind The American in Paris, shares his journey from Singapore to the United States and eventually to France. His blog offers a wealth of practical advice for navigating French bureaucracy, understanding visa processes, and adapting to cultural nuances. With over a decade of experience, Stephen provides insights that are both personal and universally applicable to expats.
Can’t-Miss Article: Keys to Long Term Survival (and Success) as an Immigrant in France (and Anywhere) — A thoughtful guide covering essential aspects of expat life, including language acquisition, building friendships, managing bureaucracy, securing income, and finding the right place to live. Stephen’s reflections offer valuable perspectives for anyone looking to thrive in France.
8. ELSKE – Creative Living
ELSKE is a blog that celebrates creativity, intentional living, and the little moments that make life magical. The author shares stories and inspiration through travel, creativity, fashion, and the beauty of intentional living.
Can’t-Miss Article: French Market Guide — This guide is as practical as it is poetic. It walks you through the colors, sounds, and unspoken rules of French markets with warmth and clarity. Along the way, it shares a few well-chosen French expressions that help you blend in with ease and confidence.
9. French or Faux – Family & Provence
French or Faux provides insights into the experiences of American expats in France, covering topics like the French school system and travel adventures in Provence and the Côte d’Azur.
Can’t-Miss Article: All About Our French Healthcare Experience as American Expats — This honest and informative article walks you through their first-hand experience navigating the French healthcare system. It’s a reassuring read for anyone curious — or nervous — about how healthcare works for expats in France.
10. French Word-A-Day – Words & Warmth
Kristin Espinasse, an American-born writer and photographer, created French Word-A-Day in 2002 to document her life in Provence and help others learn French through personal stories. What makes her blog so special is its blend of everyday French vocabulary and real, heartfelt storytelling. Her tone is gentle, poetic, and deeply human… Think of her as the Elizabeth Gilbert of expat life in France, but set among vineyards, shutters, and lavender fields.
Can’t-Miss Article: French Slang for Wine — This article teaches you playful, real-life expressions the French use for wine, but what draws you in is the voice. Each post includes an audio clip from her husband Jean-Marc so you can hear the language come to life. You read, you listen, and without even trying, you’re drawn into the rhythm of a different life.
Your Bonus Blog, Written by a French Serial Expat
And here I am — Déborah, the creator of Feel Good French. While I’m French, I work daily with American expats (especially retirees) who are settling in France and learning the language with heart. My blog and podcast are built for learners who want more than conjugation drills — I help you find your voice in French and connect to the culture through mindset, real conversations, and positivity.
My special sections for “Retirees in France” and “Life in France” cover everything from integration to emotions, language confidence, and self-expression. I love writing about expat life because I’ve lived abroad too, and I know how powerful it is to feel seen and supported.
Can’t-Miss Article:: “Moving to France: Books, Movies & Music to Help You Choose the Best Region to Live the Dream” — A resource-rich post that helps you feel into your future life in France, region by region.
Best Blogs For & By American Expats in France… C’est fini!
These ten blogs and half are much more than digital diaries — they are windows into real lives, warm communities, and trustworthy guides through the expat experience in France. Whether you’re a retiree dreaming of the Côte d’Azur or a younger professional navigating language and paperwork in Paris, these voices will make you feel less alone. They are thoughtful, open, and wonderfully human.
Have a favorite blog that’s not here? Drop it in the comments. Your suggestion could be exactly what someone else needs to feel more at home.
Déborah, your French teacher
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