Expat Living in Nice, France: Embracing A New Chapter of Life After 50

August 26, 2024
Posted by Dawn Belisle
0 comments

Two years ago, I packed up my life in the United States and moved to Nice, France. As a woman of color over 50, this move wasn't just about a change in scenery, it was about embracing a new way of living, one that values quality of life over the relentless grind. If you're thinking about making a similar leap, or just want to travel more and experience life abroad, let me share a bit of what I've learned.

The Pace of Life: Slower and Sweeter

One of the first things I noticed in Nice was the slower pace of life. In the U.S., I was used to the constant hustle, working long hours, always on the go. But here, life moves differently. People take their time. A two-hour lunch isn't unusual, and it's perfectly acceptable to sit at a café, savoring your coffee, and watching the world go by. This slower pace has taught me to be more present, to enjoy the little moments instead of rushing through life.

Safety and Peace of Mind

Another significant difference is the sense of safety I feel here. In Nice, I walk home late at night without worrying. The crime rate is lower, and the community feels tight-knit. Of course, no place is without its issues, but the overall feeling of security here is a refreshing change. It’s easier to relax and truly enjoy life when you don’t have to be constantly on guard. As an expat living in France, I feel safer here on an everyday basis more than I did living in the United States.

Quality Over Quantity

The French have a saying: "Mieux vaut la qualité que la quantité." It means "Quality is better than quantity," and it’s a philosophy that permeates every aspect of life here. From the fresh produce at the local markets to the way people prioritize spending time with family and friends, there's a focus on quality that was sometimes missing in my life back in the U.S. I’ve started to adopt this mindset in my own life, whether it’s choosing to buy fewer but better-made clothes or taking the time to cook a delicious meal from scratch. My observations since I moved abroad, is that the quality of life in France contributes to the longer lifespan of the French people and something I hope to improve as I embark on my new life abroad.

Work-Life Balance

In France, the work culture is also different. There’s a stronger emphasis on work-life balance, with shorter workweeks and more vacation time. People here work to live, not the other way around. For someone who spent decades in a work centric environment, this has been a game changer. I’ve found that I’m more productive when I do work, and I have more energy and enthusiasm for my personal projects and hobbies.

Starting Life Anew After 50

Moving to Nice was a bold step, especially at my age, but it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If you're over 50 and wondering if it’s too late to make a big change, let me assure you, it’s never too late. In fact, it’s the perfect time to start living the life you’ve always dreamed of. Whether that means moving abroad, traveling more, or simply making changes to improve your quality of life, the time is now.

Living in Nice has shown me that life can be lived more slowly, safely, and joyfully. It's about savoring each day and focusing on what truly matters. If you're ready to make a change, whether big or small, I encourage you to take that leap. You might just find that the best is yet to come.