For the fourth year in a row, France has been ranked first in International Living’s quality of life index, which aims to provide Americans with an idea of the best destinations for expatriates in the world. Besides its exceptional health services and low crime levels, France is praised for its cultural edge, in which the small things in life all add to France’s charm.
A country of exceptional beauty, its pristine streets, splendid architecture and charming cafés all contribute to the fine, distinctive aesthetic qualities that France as a country takes great pride in. What’s more, the very essence of life itself is to be savored according to the editor of the publication, who cites the relaxed and sociable attitude of the French as a great reason for living there – ordinary pleasures such as food and drink are to be enjoyed… slowly.
France ranked first for quality of life
And all of this is available at a reasonable cost! Food, especially local produce, is exceptionally well-priced. A quick trip to the supermarket yields half a pound of camembert for only $2.45, half a pound of garlic sausage for $1.60, a bottle of rosé (Grenache Gris) for $4.12 and champagne (Hubert de Claminger) for $16.98.
House prices are also a pleasant surprise; a two-bedroomed apartment an hour from Paris can be had for $145,000 and the current buyers’ market makes it a great time to find a good deal, with little risk on the investment thanks to the maturity of the market.
Warding off stiff competition from Australia, Switzerland, Germany and New Zealand, France has a lot to offer in return for its accolades as the most desirable country to live (and work) in.
See also: “Why France is best place to live in world“ on CNN.com
