The Good Life France Magazine Winter 2017 | Page 97

I was disappointed, to say the least, but not disheartened for this is where my heart truly resides. Who hasn’t felt the urge to drop everything and follow their dream regardless of the cost?

The Gascons genuinely embrace the joy of living. The simple pleasures of life are the most important: family, friends, good cuisine and lively conversation. Well-being is not a luxury but an ordinary, daily prerogative. Economically, the cost of medical care, car and home insurance, utilities, taxes and food are a fraction of what they cost in the States.

I can purchase a freshly baked, mouth-watering almond croissant or a crusty baguette at my local bakery for incredibly good value and a glass of good local wine is cheaper than a glass of sparking water.

My property taxes are a fraction of what they would be in the States, a doctor’s visit 23 euros. Even airline tickets are less expensive when purchased overseas. This has allowed me to travel around the world visiting my stateside children and friends when they are not traveling to visit me.

When I arrived nearly 12 years ago, I assumed the Earth was round and the sun set in the west, but I’ve discovered that lawyers have feelings, tomorrow was yesterday and pigs can fly.

I have had many incredible adventures and learned much about myself through living in another culture. Instead of my world becoming smaller at this stage of my life, it has become larger and I will feel forever grateful.

Sue Aran runs tours of Gascony sharing her insider knowledge of its secret gems, most mouthwatering markets, picturesque villages and glorious countryside at French Country Adventures.