France is the world leader in tourism and lots of people would agree that it is a most attractive country. But vacations can be very different from actually residing somewhere. However, although money is still a difficult area for many of us, it doesn’t seem to have stopped people leaving the U.K. to experience living in France.
Only 21 miles across the channel from us at its narrowest point, France has always held the promise of something foreign with its language and the old Parisian reputation for artists and lovers. Yet our long entangled histories means that there’s a long aspect of familiarity to this country.
What about the French language? It’s true that many of us learned it at school (“la plume de ma tante” etc), and that modern teaching offers an emphasis on real communication. That doesn’t stop many British people from being shy and unconfident to the extent that they refuse to try using the language when in France.
Others believe that they will be visited by an ability to speak French once they live amongst the French. In fact some French people also believe it and this can give rise to many difficulties for English speaking ex-patriots in France. I find it very frustrating that some French people quite clearly believe that I’m rather stupid in every aspect of life because I don’t speak perfect French! Of course, these are usually people who have never had to learn any foreign language.
It’s vital to make plans to learn to communicate in French. This isn’t about learning verb conjugations or lists of prepositions; it’s about understanding and using everyday vocabulary and phrases. The more you learn of these and some of the “etiquette” of France (such as greetings as you enter a shop, etc), the more confident you’ll become about learning and using others. Confidence is important and enables you to take some risks and to improve constantly. It will certainly get a good reception from the French who applaud attempts to learn their language.
And it’s this attitude that is important in making a success of living in France.
It’s difficult to let go of inhibitions and to try really using French, but it is an important factor in improving your skills. So think about this when planning your language work.
Of course, some of us are naturally theatrical and can communicate with gestures and facial expressions when words fail. Rewards will probably be the French providing the necessary words and much can be gained from such exchanges.
Not all of us are naturally so self-confident and it might be necessary to really push yourself in just one situation. See how it goes and what you might do next time. Pick a situation which is vital to you personally, for instance a visit to the vet to discuss your dog’s health. Think about how you’ll describe the dog’s condition and even write a little script. This allows you to look up any vocabulary you don’t know. Include questions you need to ask. It’s often best to start by explaining you’re learning French and to ask for the vet to be patient with you and to speak slowly.
Since the French are only human, there will be times when the response is less than friendly. Just remind yourself that it’s their problem, not yours. You’re the one making great effort which is to your credit, so carry on to the next situation where you’ll hopefully get your just reward.
Given your interest and determination, what are the best supports to use to work on your French?
New language learning methods arrive as new technology develops and old favourites still remain. Some examples: – selecting an individual telephone tutor; following one of the freely available on-line courses (try Radio France Internationale or the BBC), or buying a well-established tape or CD or video programme.
You may also find local French courses, and there’s also the option of paying a local teacher to come to your home to help one or more family members.
We all vary in learning styles and it’s important to consider your own when choosing how to learn French. Your choice will be likely to work more effectively.
In the end however, it’s your interest and impetus that will ensure you learn and thus make the very most of living in France.
French Life and the benefits of Life in France have been featured in magazine articles the world over. To get a first hand account of French Life take a look at Amanda Lawrence’s new blog at www.frenchvie.com. Lots of real life stories and anecdotes from the Quercy. It takes you right there – you’ll never want to leave. Don’t forget to register for her free newsletter. Author of White Stone Black Wine.
