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inspiration from readers’ stories
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“Je vais descendre à la guerre” (I’m getting off at the war), thinking I was saying ‘gare’ (station). The driver burst into laughter and wished me “Bon courage!”. Little did I know, my slight mispronunciation had turned a routine bus ride into a comical adventure. It wasn’t until later, when I shared this story with Alex, that I realised my amusing linguistic slip-up. I’ve had the privilege of
calling Aveyron, Hérault and Aude my homes at different points. Each of these areas has welcomed me with its unique charm and character, leaving me with cherished memories. However, if I were to choose a favourite, my heart belongs to Aude. It’s a place where breathtaking landscapes paint the backdrop of my everyday life – from the majestic Pyrénées, where I find solace in hiking and rejuvenation, to the inviting shores of the Mediterranean that offer
“France has become my forever home, a place where an American boy with a rebellious spirit found his French dream”
and the charm of the region. Together, we’ve turned each property showcase into a cinematic experience, capturing not just the features of the homes, but also the essence of the community they belong to. Every day is filled with
moments of joy, laughter and cherished memories with Alex and our beloved dogs, Maya and Mosby. France has become my forever home, a place where an American boy with a rebellious spirit found his French dream. In more recent years, my
friend Derek and his wife came to visit France where we shared our love for this country that brought us together. Derek, with a dream of retiring in France, found himself drawn to the picturesque landscapes and the warm embrace of its culture. As we explored the charming streets of Carcassonne and savoured the finest French cuisine, his vision of a future in this enchanting land began to take shape. Our days were filled with
laughter, reminiscing about our rebellious teenage years and marvelling at how life had unfolded. The idea of a shared future in France became a topic of conversations filled with hope and excitement.
LEARNING THE LINGO Since my arrival in France, I’ve embraced opportunities that have enriched my life in extraordinary ways. I’ve dedicated 12 years to Fluenz, a renowned language-learning company, where I’ve been
a passionate advocate for language education through software and online platforms. One anecdote that never
fails to bring a smile to my face involves my initial days in France. When I first arrived, I had no money, no job and no driving licence. I relied on buses to navigate my way around, spending hours each day on a bus to a village called Lodève for my French lessons. One day, as I boarded the bus, the driver asked me where I was going. I confidently replied,
France surpassed Andrew’s dreams
serenity and inspiration. The proximity to the enchanting Montagne Noir adds a touch of magic to the region I now call home. In Aude, I’ve found not just a residence but a symphony of nature’s wonders that continually reminds me of the beauty and boundless possibilities of this remarkable corner of France. As my life intertwines with
the tapestry of French culture, I find myself not just fulfilling my dreams, but surpassing them. My time in France has been an incredible journey of self-discovery. In embracing the language, culture and traditions, I have grown as a person and found my place in this beautiful country. ■
Alex hiking in the Pyrénées, where the couple like to unwind and relax
See Andrew’s YouTube videos @ AndrewGuckLeggettImmobilier
FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS: November/December 2023 51
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