Initial Aspirations and Challenges

In October 2023, Joanna McIsaac-Kierklo and her husband, Ed Kierklo, made the significant decision to relocate from their home in San Francisco to Nîmes, France. With expectations of a new, fulfilling life, the couple aimed to settle in the picturesque European landscape for the rest of their days. However, just over a year later, they find themselves contemplating a return to the United States.

Originally hoping to embrace the French lifestyle, the couple has encountered difficulties that have seriously tested their resolve, particularly in the realms of socializing and navigating local bureaucracy.

Frustrations with Adaptation

Joanna, 74, reflected on their year in France, stating, “We gave it a year here… Too much grief and no joy. There’s no fun. We’re struggling every day.” Despite their efforts to integrate, they’ve found the experience to be increasingly overwhelming.

Joanna further described their situation as a “nightmare,” underscoring the exhaustion they feel from their attempts to adapt without significant success. Despite their willingness to embrace a new culture, they find themselves feeling isolated, with limited friendships to alleviate their loneliness.

Life in France: Expectations vs. Reality

Prior to their move, Joanna and Ed, who have traveled extensively, were familiar with Nîmes after previously enjoying a two-month stay. They envisioned a lifestyle characterized by civility and low rates of violence, which they found appealing compared to their experiences in America. However, the couple’s optimism quickly faded as they encountered an unexpected burden of bureaucratic requirements.

Securing a long-stay visa proved cumbersome, with complications arising that extended to arranging travel for their pet cat. Joanna expressed their frustration over the inconsistent responses they received from various institutions, stating, “You can get five different answers to one simple little question.”

Cultural Adjustments and Social Integration

The transition posed additional challenges for Joanna, particularly in relation to language barriers. She mentioned, “I have been so busy packing, unpacking, assembling furniture that I haven’t really found time to hunker down and start [learning French].”

Moreover, culinary expectations did not meet reality, as Joanna found shopping for quality food in Nîmes to be disappointing. She candidly expressed her dissatisfaction with local produce, which she found often inadequate compared to what she was accustomed to in the U.S.

Deciding to Move Again: A Heartfelt Decision

After relocating to Montpellier with hopes for a better experience, Joanna and Ed remained resolute that France was not the right fit for them in the long term. Joanna summarized their feelings by stating, “I love France… just not to live here.” They acknowledged the beautiful aspects of French culture but admitted the practical realities of living there had not aligned with their aspirations.

As they weigh their options, including shipping their possessions back to San Francisco, they consider the potential implications of the upcoming U.S. election on their decision-making.

Reflecting on their journey, Joanna noted, “I don’t want to say we failed. But it just didn’t work out.” Despite the challenges faced, the couple expressed no regrets about their decision to move, recognizing that their experience in France provided invaluable insights, even if it didn’t turn out as planned.