Dijon

Dijon is the capital city of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in eastern France, renowned for its rich medieval and Renaissance heritage. The city is famous for its architectural treasures, including the stunning Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, which dominates the central square and showcases centuries of history. Dijon's old town features charming cobblestone streets lined with elegant townhouses, historic churches, and well-preserved buildings that reflect its importance as a former ducal capital. The city is celebrated worldwide for its mustard production, a tradition dating back centuries that remains integral to its identity. Beyond its historical significance, Dijon is a vibrant cultural hub with excellent museums, galleries, and theaters. The city offers a sophisticated blend of tradition and modernity, with quality restaurants, wine bars, and shops reflecting the region's gastronomic excellence. Dijon serves as an important economic and educational center, home to a university and various industries. The surrounding Burgundy region is famous for its vineyards and wine production, making Dijon an ideal base for exploring one of France's most prestigious wine areas. The city maintains a manageable size that makes it walkable and accessible while offering all the amenities of a major French city.

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Episode 2: Finding the Good Life in France

In this episode, Josh talks to Janine Marsh, publisher of The Good Life France. After buying a house in the French countryside on a whim, she turned her love of France into a bustling business she never even dreamed of having!

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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in France involves several steps and can vary in complexity depending on the type of visa applied for. The Talent Passport is a popular choice for highly skilled expats, which is valid for four years and renewable. It is designed for various categories of professionals including researchers, artists, and business founders. Another common option is the Long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit (VLS-TS), which allows expats to live in France for up to a year without the need for a separate residence permit. Upon arrival in France, holders of this visa must validate it within three months. For digital nomads, the Long-stay visa for visitors is a suitable option. This visa does not permit employment in France but allows individuals to reside in the country for up to a year. Applicants must prove they have sufficient financial means, health insurance, and accommodation. The process generally starts with an application submitted to the French consulate or embassy in the applicant's home country. Required documentation typically includes a passport, application forms, photos, proof of financial means, health insurance, and a letter explaining the purpose of the stay. Some visas may require additional documents such as a job offer, proof of professional skills, or a business plan. Once the initial visa is granted and the individual arrives in France, they may need to undergo a medical examination and apply for a residence permit (carte de séjour) if planning to stay longer than the visa's validity. The difficulty of the process can vary, but France has made efforts to streamline visa applications for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs. However, navigating the French bureaucracy can still be challenging, and proficiency in French is often helpful. It is advisable to start the application process well in advance of the intended move date and to consult the official French visa website or a professional for the most current information and guidance.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Dijon is moderate compared to major French cities like Paris, making it relatively affordable for housing, dining, and daily expenses. Rental prices and property costs are reasonable, and local services and groceries are competitively priced. The city offers good value for residents seeking a high-quality lifestyle without the premium costs associated with larger metropolitan areas.

Weather

Dijon experiences a temperate continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, with moderate rainfall throughout the year.

Healthcare in Dijon

Dijon has solid healthcare facilities, including major hospitals and specialist services serving the city and wider Burgundy region. Residents generally have access to comprehensive medical care, emergency treatment, and a range of public and private providers.

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