Moving to France at any age takes courage, but doing it in your 50s, selling almost everything, and starting over in a new language? That’s a whole different level of brave.
That’s exactly what Deri and Marshall did. Originally from Florida, they left behind hurricanes, skyrocketing insurance premiums, and a lifestyle that no longer inspired them. Instead of settling for a move to another U.S. state, they chose the life they really wanted: a slower, richer, more community-focused life in France.
And surprisingly, they didn’t choose Paris or Nice. They chose Lyon, and it turned out to be the perfect fit.
From Florida to France: Why They Took the Leap
Like many future expats, Deri and Marshall knew Florida wasn’t their long-term home. Rising climate risks, costs, and a desire for a completely different lifestyle pushed them to rethink everything. Europe, and France in particular, had always been their dream.
But dreams usually get postponed until “the perfect time.” Their key message? If you're waiting for the perfect moment, you’ll never go.
Instead, they set practical steps for themselves, paperwork, logistics, downsizing, and once those were checked off, they made the leap.
Why Lyon, Not Paris (Or Nice)?
While Paris attracts many expats, Lyon became their clear winner. Here’s why:
1. A Big City Without the Overwhelm
Paris is magical, but it’s intense. For Deri and Marshall, Lyon offered everything they loved about French culture, food, history, walkability, without the metropolitan pressure.
Lyon feels manageable, elegant, and beautifully balanced.
2. The Gastronomy Capital
They quickly discovered what many French people know: Lyon is arguably the true food capital of France. From bouchons to world-class chefs, the culinary scene blew them away, so much so that their best meals in France have all happened in Lyon.
3. Perfect Geographic Position
Lyon is a travel hub without Paris’s chaos. Within 2 hours you can reach Paris, The Alps, Provence, The French Riviera. Four directions, four different landscapes, from mountains to the Mediterranean. For explorers, it’s ideal.
Their Visa Experience: Surprisingly Smooth
Like many midlife movers, they initially explored professional visa options, but ultimately applied for the visitor visa (VLS-TS), and were pleasantly surprised by how straightforward it was.
With careful preparation and the right documents, their approval came quickly. Their advice mirrors what many seasoned expats say: over-prepare your paperwork, bring more than needed, and the process becomes much smoother.
French Bureaucracy: Not As Scary As It Sounds
Every expat hears horror stories about “la paperasse française.” And yes, some steps involve patience and back-and-forth.
But interestingly, their experience with driver’s licence exchange, banking, insurance and car purchase was far quicker than they expected. In some cases, what they were told would take eight months took just a few weeks. France’s increasing shift toward digital systems has made many processes more efficient.
Arriving Without Fluent French (And Still Thriving)
They arrived with beginner-level French, and the first reaction at any appointment was total brain-freeze. Every expat knows that feeling.
Yet they’ve managed to navigate life thanks to patience, email communication when possible, helpful locals and the willingness to try speaking French even imperfectly.
And interestingly, Lyonnais residents often help them along, switching languages when needed and welcoming their efforts.
Bringing Their Dog: The Most Stressful Part
While moving countries is complicated, they found that pet relocation was the most nerve-wracking element.
Time-sensitive USDA paperwork, microchipping, vaccination windows, and health certificates created a race against the clock. Their final approval came only 16 hours before departure.
Once in France, however, registration was smooth, and their dog now enjoys life with her own EU pet passport.
Exploring France From Their New Home Base
With Lyon as their hub, they’ve taken short trips to:
- Beaujolais medieval villages
- Provence
- Annecy
- Vineyards and countryside escapes
These moments reshaped their idea of what “home” could be: peaceful landscapes, ancient villages, and a lifestyle where nature, culture, and community interconnect beautifully.
The Community They Always Wanted
One unexpected gift of France? A sense of community they had been missing.
Daily life in their Lyon neighbourhood includes local festivals, multi-generational gatherings, music in the streets, familiar faces at their favourite café and warm greetings (including double-cheek kisses they’re slowly getting used to!)
This integration, even early in their journey, affirmed that they made the right move.
Real Advice for Anyone Dreaming of Moving to France
Their guidance for future expats is simple but powerful:
✔ Don’t wait for “the perfect moment”: Perfection doesn’t exist. Preparation does.
✔ Set your non-negotiable steps and act once they’re done: Focus on the concrete boxes you must tick.
✔ Allow yourself the leap of faith: France rewards people who embrace the challenge.
✔ Expect discomfort and growth: New language, new systems, new habits and a richer life.
✔ Community matters more than convenience: The intangible joy of feeling at home in a foreign land is worth it.
And perhaps most importantly: You won’t know if France is your place until you try living here.
Would Lyon Suit You Too?
Lyon is perfect for those who want:
- a vibrant city without the intensity of Paris
- world-class food
- fast connections to mountains, beaches, and Europe
- a strong sense of community
- a beautiful, walkable, culturally rich environment
For many expats, especially those moving in midlife, Lyon may offer the balance, charm, and slower rhythm they’re seeking. Thinking of making the move? Lyon might just surprise you. 👉 Watch the full video interview below
To Wrap it All Up
Deri and Marshall’s story shows that moving to France at 50+ isn’t just possible, it can be transformative.
With preparation, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace a new life, France offers extraordinary rewards: culture, warmth, beauty, and a sense of belonging that surprised even them.
If you’re dreaming of a move abroad, their journey is a reminder: When the dream keeps nudging you, it might be time to get on the plane.
🤝 Follow Deri & Marshall on YouTube: From South to North