Retirement often marks the beginning of a quieter life, but for Rob, a former UK police detective and military veteran, it became the launchpad for a brand-new adventure. Trading in crime scenes and case files for countryside calm, he and his wife Lisa made the leap from the UK to rural France. What started as a dream became reality, and eventually, a YouTube channel followed by thousands around the world.
A Life Reimagined in France
After decades in high-stress public service roles, Rob officially retired in 2023. But rather than settle into a routine life in the UK, he and Lisa began making plans for something more unconventional. Their story gained national attention when they appeared on Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun in late 2024, documenting their property hunt in France. That televised experience was just the beginning.
Once they arrived in the Charente region, Rob and Lisa launched their YouTube channel Escape to France – Charentes, aiming to share the unfiltered truth about expat life. Rather than curate a glossy highlight reel, they committed to filming every day, warts and all. From moments of joy and peace to logistical challenges and frustrations, their content offers an honest look at what moving to France truly entails.
Adjusting to Rural Life
For Rob, the adjustment from British city life to the rural Charente has been profound. The pace of life is slower, the people more relaxed, and the scenery undeniably beautiful. It’s a far cry from the high-alert world of policing, and the change has been both welcome and therapeutic.
While adapting to the French lifestyle has had its hurdles, particularly the language barrier and navigating local bureaucracy, Rob has thrown himself into the challenge with characteristic commitment. He’s been learning French actively and practicing in daily interactions, noting that while he understands more than he can say, he's made significant progress in a relatively short time.
The Charente region suits Rob and Lisa’s lifestyle perfectly. They prefer the tranquility of the southwest to the bustle of Paris, and the community they’ve built locally has made their new chapter feel rooted and meaningful.
Sharing the Journey: Escape to France - Charentes
The couple’s YouTube channel has become more than just a creative outlet; it’s a vital part of their new life. With videos posted three times a week, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, they share everything from home renovations and local excursions to cultural observations and day-to-day routines.
What makes the channel stand out is its authenticity. Rob and Lisa don’t shy away from showing the difficult parts of expat life, whether it’s dealing with administrative headaches, renovation mishaps, or language mix-ups. That openness has resonated with a wide audience, attracting viewers from across the globe, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Rob takes community seriously. He personally responds to almost every comment and private message, making Escape to France not just a channel but a support network for others who are dreaming of or already navigating life abroad.
Becoming “More French”: The Cultural Shift
When it comes to French culture, Rob admits he’s still learning, but he’s embraced many of the traditions and quirks with good humour. He prefers croissants to baguettes, enjoys a café au lait over espresso, and is a firm believer in the double cheek kiss. He’s also partial to French red wine, Bordeaux, of course, and appreciates the seasonal beauty of spring in the French countryside.
While he doesn’t yet think in French, Rob is working toward it. He’s found that listening, reading, and speaking help accelerate learning. He also notes how warmly French locals respond when they see an effort being made to speak their language, even if the delivery isn’t flawless.
The Realities of Relocating
One of the most appreciated aspects of Rob’s story is his candour about the realities of moving abroad. He’s quick to point out that starting a life in France isn’t just about romantic scenes of lavender fields or wine tastings. There’s paperwork, occasional isolation, and plenty of logistical hurdles.
That said, Rob also highlights the enormous rewards, freedom, a healthier pace of life, and the chance to reinvent oneself. In his words and content, it’s clear that while the path isn’t always smooth, it’s absolutely worth it.
Watch the full video below:
Find Rob & Lisa at: Escape to France – Charentes on YouTube – Their candid videos are a must-watch for anyone dreaming of a new life in France, or simply curious about what such a bold move actually involves.