Moving Abroad on a Budget in 2026: The Cheapest Countries and a Complete Guide

Dreaming of a new life without going broke? Moving abroad is no longer reserved for executives with gold-plated relocation packages. In 2026, more than 2.5 million French people live abroad according to the register of French nationals living outside France, and many chose their destination based on purchasing power. Whether you're a retiree, a digital nomad, an entrepreneur or simply looking for a better quality of life, moving abroad on a budget is not only possible, it can even improve your standard of living.

This complete guide covers the cheapest countries to move to in 2026, the real budgets to plan for and, above all, concrete strategies to cut your relocation costs by 40 to 60%. Based on prices observed on the ground, it will help you turn your plan into reality, even on a limited budget.

01How to Choose a Truly Affordable Country

Rent alone isn't enough. Too many expats focus on that one number and then discover hidden costs that eat into their budget. Four criteria really matter:

Local cost of living: be wary of national averages. In Bangkok, you can live on €800/month in some neighborhoods and need €2,000 in others. Always go for data by city, or even by neighborhood.

Visa and residence fees: some countries, like Georgia, give French citizens a free one-year stay, while others require large bank deposits. Vietnam now requires proof of monthly income for some long-stay visas.

Access to healthcare: a country can seem cheap until your first specialist appointment. Private healthcare systems in Southeast Asia generally offer excellent value for money. To dig deeper, see our guide to health insurance in Vietnam.

Local taxation: it can turn an affordable destination into a financial trap. Always look into the bilateral tax treaties with France.

Tip: Calculate your "adjusted cost of living" by including 2 to 3 round trips to France a year, your health insurance and a 20% margin for the unexpected. That real budget is what will determine your comfort.

02The Cheapest Countries to Move to in 2026

Your choice of destination will determine 70% of your relocation budget. Some countries offer unbeatable quality of life for the cost. Here's the updated 2026 ranking, with real monthly budgets for a single person or a couple.

Vietnam: The Undisputed Value-for-Money Champion

Vietnam stands out as THE destination for moving abroad on a budget without compromising on quality of life. In Da Nang, a modern and lively coastal city, you can live comfortably from €800 a month on your own, €1,200 as a couple. This budget includes a modern apartment with a pool, all your meals, transportation, nights out and even a few extras.

Let's look at the real numbers:

To learn more about how these costs break down, see our complete guide to the cost of living in Vietnam or our guide to a monthly budget in Da Nang.

Growth of 6 to 7% a year keeps improving the infrastructure. Things to watch out for: a work visa requires a local sponsor, the language barrier complicates paperwork, and the air is polluted in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. For a balanced view, read our analysis of the pros and cons of living in Vietnam.

Tip: Secondary cities like Da Nang offer 30% savings compared with Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, while still offering modern infrastructure (international airport, private hospitals, a lively expat community).

Thailand: Asian Comfort on a Controlled Budget

Thailand remains a safe bet, especially in the north (Chiang Mai) or the northeast (Isan). Monthly budget: €900-1,200 for a single person, €1,400-1,800 for a couple. The upside? A well-oiled tourism infrastructure, more flexible visas than before (a 60-day Tourist Visa that can be extended), excellent private healthcare, direct flights from Paris and a well-established French-speaking community.

Things to watch out for: prices are rising fast in tourist areas (Phuket, Koh Samui) and have climbed 15 to 20% since 2020 in some Bangkok neighborhoods, and air quality in Chiang Mai is a problem between February and April.

Portugal: The Affordable European Option

For those who'd rather stay in Europe, Portugal (outside Lisbon and Porto) offers an interesting compromise. Monthly budget: €1,200-1,600 for a single person, €1,800-2,400 for a couple. The Algarve, the Centro region or the Azores have living costs 40% lower than the big cities.

Pros: no visa needed (free movement within the EU), no insurmountable language barrier, a European healthcare system. Cons: local salaries are low, which makes finding work locally harder.

Other Destinations to Consider

Mexico (Playa del Carmen, Mérida): €1,000-1,400/month. Close to the United States, a rich culture, a 180-day tourist visa that's easy to renew. Avoid Cancún or Tulum, where prices match American standards, and go for "second-tier" cities like Mérida or Oaxaca. Safety varies from state to state: always check locally.

Indonesia (Bali, Java): €800-1,200/month. A tropical paradise, but complex visas and sometimes limited infrastructure outside tourist areas. In Bali, steer clear of Seminyak and look at Canggu (digital nomads), Ubud (nature and culture) or Sanur (quiet and family-friendly). Lombok or Yogyakarta offer better value for money.

Colombia (Medellín): €700-1,200/month. Now a top destination for digital nomads: 22-28°C all year round in Medellín, modern coworking spaces (€80-150/month), a recently introduced digital nomad visa. Spanish is almost essential, and safety, which has improved enormously in the big cities, calls for the usual precautions.

Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang): €900-1,500/month. First-class infrastructure, an English-speaking population, excellent private healthcare and the MM2H program for long-term residence.

Morocco (Essaouira, Agadir): €900-1,300/month. Close to France, low cost of living, but heavy bureaucracy.

Georgia (Tbilisi, Batumi): €700-1,000/month. 365 days visa-free for French citizens, renewable by simply leaving the country, attractive territorial taxation, fiber internet for €10/month in Tbilisi. On the flip side: harsh winters, the Georgian alphabet, a healthcare system less developed than in Southeast Asia, and distance from France.

Albania (Tirana, the Albanian Riviera): €700-1,100/month. A Mediterranean setting at unbeatable prices, 90 renewable visa-free days. Infrastructure is still developing and healthcare is limited (evacuation to Greece is often necessary): a destination for adventurous profiles.

Romania (Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca): €900-1,400/month. An EU member, internet among the fastest in Europe, a dynamic tech scene. A good compromise for trying out life abroad without going too far, with simpler administrative and banking procedures.

Quick Comparison of Destinations

03The Real Budget for Moving Abroad Cheaply: Hidden Costs

Most guides forget the upfront costs and one-off expenses that can blow up your budget. Here's the financial reality of moving abroad on a budget.

Setup Costs: Your Starting Budget

Plan a safety cushion of €3,000 to €5,000 to cover your first few months. Breakdown:

• Plane tickets: €400-800 depending on the season (book 3-4 months ahead)
• Initial visa: €50-300 depending on the country
• Rental deposit: 1-2 months' rent (refundable)
• Basic furniture: €300-600 if the rental is unfurnished
• Administrative fees: €200-400 (opening a bank account, local driver's license, etc.)
• International health insurance: €50-150/month (for the first 3 months)
• Unexpected expenses: €500-1,000 (always plan for them)

Tip: Arrive on a tourist visa (free or cheap) and convert it to a long-stay visa once you're there. You'll save on agency fees and can test the country before committing.

The Recurring Expenses Nobody Budgets For

Beyond the rent-food-transportation trio, these costs come back every year:

• Trips back to France: 2-3 trips a year (holidays, summer, family emergencies), or €1,000-3,000/year. From Southeast Asia, expect €500-800 round trip in low season.
• Visa renewals: Vietnam e-visa (€25-50 every 90 days), visa runs in Thailand, temporary residence fees. Budget €200-500/year.
• Bank fees: SWIFT transfers (€15-30 per transaction), currency conversion fees (1-3%), ATM fees (€3-5). Neobanks like Wise or Revolut cut these sharply. See our guide to opening a bank account in Vietnam.
• Equipment: computer, phone, clothes suited to the climate, about €500-1,000/year.
• Local inflation: Vietnam saw 3-4% inflation in 2025, Thailand 2-3%. Keep a 20% margin on your initial budget.

For a complete analysis, see our article on hidden expenses in Vietnam, whose principles apply to any move abroad.

Where to Make the Biggest Savings

Here's how to drastically cut your costs without sacrificing comfort:

Housing (-40%): Negotiate directly with landlords rather than going through agencies. In Da Nang, a 6-12-month lease saves you 20-30% compared with the monthly rate. Avoid overpriced expat neighborhoods and go for modern Vietnamese residential areas.

Food (-50%): Eat local. A street meal in Vietnam costs €1-2, compared with €8-12 at a Western restaurant. A couple who cooks at home 50% of the time and eats local spends €250-300/month, versus €600-800 eating "Western-style" all the time.

Transportation (-70%): Forget the car. A used scooter costs €300-500 to buy and €15/month in gas. Long-term rental: €50-70/month. Taxis and Grab are so cheap (€2-5 per ride in town) that you can do without.

Health (-60%): Medical care in Southeast Asia costs 60-80% less than in France for equivalent quality in international hospitals. A specialist consultation: €20-40. Local health insurance: €50-100/month, versus €200-400 for comprehensive international insurance.

Find out how to optimize your healthcare budget in our guide to living in Vietnam.

04Concrete Strategies to Cut Your Relocation Costs

Beyond your choice of destination, your lifestyle will determine your financial success. Here are the strategies proven by expats who live comfortably on less than €1,000/month.

Earning Income Before and During Your Move

Moving abroad cheaply doesn't mean living without income. The options in 2026:

Remote work for a French employer: Keep your French salary while enjoying a cost of living divided by 2 or 3. Watch out for taxes: beyond 183 days outside France, you become a tax resident of your host country. See our guide to expat taxation in Vietnam to optimize your situation.

Freelancing and digital nomadism: Platforms like Malt, Upwork or Fiverr let you bill for your skills (web development, design, writing, consulting, translation). A realistic goal: €1,500-3,000/month after 6-12 months of ramping up. The digital nomad route in Vietnam is particularly well suited to this lifestyle.

Passive income: Rental property in France, dividends, affiliate income. Even €300-500/month in passive income radically changes your financial equation.

Teaching French: In high demand in Asia. Pay: €15-25/hour for private lessons, €1,200-1,800/month at a language school (full-time).

Tip: Diversify your income sources. A mix of freelancing (70%) + French lessons (20%) + passive income (10%) offers security and flexibility.

Optimizing Your Expat Taxes

Taxes can take 30-40% of your income or... 0-5% if you optimize smartly.

Becoming a French tax non-resident: After 183 days outside France, you can ask to be removed from the French tax rolls. The tax authorities also look at where your center of vital interests and your main professional activity are. Your French income remains taxable in France (subject to tax treaties), but your foreign income escapes French tax. For details, read our guide on how to become a French tax non-resident.

Choosing a tax-friendly country: Vietnam taxes residents at 5-35% depending on the bracket, but a lot of foreign income (freelancing for clients outside Vietnam) remains in a gray area. Thailand only taxes income brought into the country in the year it's earned. Georgia doesn't tax foreign income. In Portugal, the NHR regime has been closed to new applicants since 2024.

Setting up an offshore structure: For income above €3,000/month, a company in Dubai, Singapore or Hong Kong can reduce your overall taxation to 0-15%. Setup cost: €2,000-5,000; annual maintenance: €1,000-3,000.

Warning: See a tax advisor who specializes in expatriation BEFORE you leave. A mistake can cost thousands of euros in back taxes.

The "Slow Living" Lifestyle: The Key to Moving Abroad Cheaply

The happiest expats on tight budgets have embraced "slow living":

• Cook at home 60-70% of the time (local markets = massive savings)
• Favor free activities: beaches, hiking, team sports, community events
• Buy local: locally made clothes, electronics and furniture cost 50-70% less
• Travel slowly: bus/train rather than plane, local guesthouses rather than hotels
• Build a community: swapping services, carpooling, group buying

This lifestyle isn't deprivation; it's reconnecting with what matters. Most long-term expats say they're happier with less.

05The Traps to Avoid When Moving Abroad on a Budget

Thousands of expats fail not for lack of money, but for lack of preparation. Here are the fatal mistakes to avoid.

Mistake #1: Underestimating Your Starting Budget

The rule: 6 months of expenses in emergency savings before you leave. If your target monthly budget is €1,000, leave with at least €6,000 + setup costs (€3,000) = a €9,000 cushion. And be wary of the "survival" budgets published on some blogs: always add 30 to 50% for a genuinely comfortable life.

That gives you time to:

• Find your bearings without stress
• Negotiate the best prices (no rushing)
• Develop local income sources
• Deal with the unexpected (illness, paperwork problems)

Mistake #2: Choosing a Destination for the Wrong Reasons

"I saw YouTube videos about Bali, it looks amazing!" Wrong reason. Influencers live in a bubble disconnected from local reality.

Good reasons to choose a destination:

• An accessible long-term visa (criterion #1)
• A cost of living checked against multiple sources
• An existing expat community (crucial support in the first months)
• Infrastructure (healthcare, internet, transportation) suited to your needs
• A climate and lifestyle that match your expectations

Your profile matters as much as the country: employees need a work visa (complicated almost everywhere), while retirees often have dedicated visas (Thailand, Portugal). A low cost of living doesn't make up for cultural unease, and a chronic condition requires solid medical infrastructure (Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam's big cities, Portugal). See also our article on the French community in Vietnam.

ALWAYS test your destination for 1-3 months before committing. A round-trip ticket + an Airbnb costs less than a failed move.

Mistake #3: Neglecting the Legal and Tax Side

Moving abroad without understanding the tax implications is a ticking time bomb. Essential questions:

• Which visa lets me stay legally for more than 90 days?
• When do I become a tax resident of my new country?
• Do I need to keep filing my income in France?
• Is my foreign income taxable in France?
• What social protection (health, retirement) will I have?

Don't count on "sorting out the visa once you're there" or doing visa runs indefinitely: the rules are tightening everywhere. Thailand has sharply restricted visa runs since 2024, and Vietnam now requires proof of income.

The cost of a consultation with a specialist tax advisor (€300-500) is trivial compared with the risk of a tax reassessment (several thousand euros + penalties).

Mistake #4: Living in an Expat Bubble

Expats who socialize only with other expats spend 2 to 3 times more. Why?

• Western restaurants and bars (prices x3-5)
• Overpriced expat neighborhoods (rents +40%)
• Tourist rather than local activities
• Shopping at imported-goods supermarkets

Local integration isn't just about budget; it's the key to a successful move. Learn the basics of the local language (6 months of lessons = €200-400), go to local places and build mixed friendships.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Health Insurance

"I'm young and healthy, I'll deal with it later." Until the scooter accident, the dengue fever or the appendicitis. An uninsured hospital stay can cost €5,000-20,000 and wreck your plans.

Affordable solutions:

• Local insurance (€50-100/month): basic but sufficient coverage
• Entry-level international insurance (€100-150/month): repatriation included
• CFE + top-up insurance (€150-250/month): continuity with the French system

Vietnam has excellent international hospitals in Da Nang (Family Medical Practice, Hoan My Hospital), where a consultation costs €30-50 and a hospital stay costs 10 times less than in France.

Mistake #6: Burning Your Bridges in France

Keep a French bank account, a mailing address (family, a friend) and your professional connections. Returning to France should always remain an option. To go further, see the 10 fatal mistakes to avoid when moving to Vietnam, which apply to any destination.

06Complete Checklist for Moving Abroad on a Budget

Here's your step-by-step action plan for a successful low-cost move.

Phase 1: Preparation (6-12 Months Before You Leave)

Finances:

• Build up emergency savings (6 months of expenses + setup costs)
• Develop portable income sources (freelancing, remote work, passive income)
• See a tax advisor who specializes in expatriation
• Optimize your French tax situation before you leave
• Take out international health insurance (often with a 30-day waiting period)
• Open an account with an international neobank (Wise, Revolut)

Paperwork:

• Check your passport's validity (at least 6 months)
• Look into long-term visas for your target destination
• Prepare the necessary documents (diplomas, bank statements, certificates)
• Tell your bank about your plans (to avoid your card being blocked abroad)
• Scan all your important documents (secure cloud)
• Cancel or transfer your subscriptions (electricity, internet, phone)
• Notify the tax office (change of residence), the CAF (family benefits), France Travail (the unemployment agency) and your top-up health insurer
• Arrange your move or storage
• Get a full medical checkup and update your vaccinations

Research:

• Join expat Facebook groups for your destination
• Read expat blogs and guides (not just influencers)
• Contact expats already there for firsthand feedback
• Compare neighborhoods and housing costs
• Learn the basics of the local language (free apps)

Phase 2: Testing on the Ground (1-3 Months)

Arrival:

• Book temporary accommodation (Airbnb, hotel, guesthouse) for 2-4 weeks
• Buy a local SIM card (unlimited data = €5-10/month)
• Open a local bank account (in the first few weeks if possible)
• Transfer your funds in staggered transfers (better average exchange rate)
• Scout neighborhoods for your permanent home

Exploration:

• Try different neighborhoods (live like a local, not a tourist)
• Find affordable markets, supermarkets and restaurants
• Meet the expat community (events, coworking spaces)
• Assess the infrastructure (internet, transportation, healthcare)
• Visit several places before signing a lease

Phase 3: Settling In (Months 1-3)

Housing:

• Negotiate a long-term lease (6-12 months = best price)
• Check the inventory and take photos
• Set up high-speed internet (essential for remote work)
• Buy the missing furniture/appliances (secondhand = savings)

Paperwork:

• Convert your tourist visa into a long-stay visa (if needed)
• Register with the French consulate (optional but recommended)
• Get a local driver's license (if you drive)
• Take out local health insurance (as a supplement or replacement)

Integration:

• Take local language lessons (2-3 hours/week)
• Join clubs/associations (sports, hobbies, volunteering)
• Establish a daily routine (markets, cafes, sports)
• Build friendships with both locals and expats

Phase 4: Fine-Tuning (Months 3-12)

Finances:

• Refine your monthly budget based on reality
• Optimize your income sources (increase, diversify)
• Clarify your tax situation (filings, tax residence)
• Set up monthly savings (goal: 20-30% of income)

Quality of life:

• Explore your region (short trips, local activities)
• Deepen your knowledge of the local language (goal: conversational level)
• Build a local professional network (future opportunities)
• Assess how satisfied you are (if it's negative, consider a change)

For the detailed version, see our Vietnam moving checklist.

07FAQ: Moving Abroad on a Budget in 2026

What is the minimum budget to move abroad safely?

The minimum realistic budget for moving abroad safely is €9,000 to €12,000, including €3,000-4,000 in initial setup costs + €6,000-8,000 in emergency savings (6 months of expenses). This cushion lets you settle in without stress, negotiate the best prices and deal with the unexpected. For a destination like Vietnam, expect €800-1,000/month in living costs for a single person, so 6 months = €5,000-6,000. Add plane tickets (€500-800), a visa (€50-200), a rental deposit (€300-600), health insurance (€300-500 for 6 months), basic furniture (€300-500) and unexpected costs (€500-1,000). Never leave with less than €6,000 in available savings; below that, the risk of failure becomes too high.

Can you move abroad without a regular income?

Technically yes, but it's strongly discouraged unless you have substantial savings (at least €20,000-30,000 to last 2-3 years). Most expats who make it developed income sources BEFORE leaving: remote work for a French employer, freelancing, passive income (rental property, dividends) or a retirement pension. If you leave without income, have a realistic plan B: teaching French (guaranteed demand in Asia, €1,200-1,800/month), building a freelance business (6-12 months to reach €1,500-2,000/month), or working for a local company (salaries often low but enough locally). Ideally, leave with at least €500-800/month in recurring income, then grow it once you're there. The digital nomad route in Vietnam is particularly well suited if you have skills you can sell online.

What are the cheapest countries to move to in 2026?

The top 5 most affordable destinations in 2026: 1) Vietnam (Da Nang, Hanoi): €800-1,200/month, excellent value for money, modern infrastructure, accessible visas. 2) Georgia (Tbilisi): €700-1,000/month, automatic one-year visa-free stay, attractive taxation, but a harsh climate. 3) Thailand (Chiang Mai, Isan): €900-1,200/month, large expat community, but problematic air quality. 4) Indonesia (Bali outside the tourist areas, Java): €800-1,100/month, idyllic setting, but complicated visas. 5) Mexico (Mérida, Playa del Carmen): €1,000-1,400/month, close to the United States, but safety varies. Colombia (€700-1,200/month) and Albania (€700-1,100/month) are also very affordable, and some rural areas of Albania, Georgia or Colombia go as low as €600-900/month, at the cost of compromises on infrastructure and services. Vietnam stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its political stability, exceptional safety, modern infrastructure (fiber internet, international hospitals) and growing French-speaking expat community. See our complete guide to Da Nang to understand why this city is ideal.

Can you really live abroad on €1,000 a month?

Yes: in most of the destinations in this guide, €1,000/month allows a decent life for a single person, and even some comfort in Vietnam, Colombia, Albania or Georgia. However, this budget excludes international health insurance (€50-150/month), trips back to France, visa fees and unexpected costs. To live with peace of mind, aim for €1,200-1,500/month all-in instead, while adopting local habits. For a detailed comparison with France, see our Vietnam vs. France cost of living comparison.

Which countries have the easiest visas for French citizens?

Georgia is the most generous: 365 days free for French citizens, renewable by leaving the country. Portugal and Romania require no visa (EU). Albania grants 90 renewable days, Mexico 180 days, Thailand a 60-day Tourist Visa that can be extended (visa runs are now scrutinized). For long-term residence, Vietnam, Malaysia (MM2H) and Colombia (digital nomad visa) offer solutions, subject to financial requirements or a sponsor. Our guide to Vietnam visas covers all the options for Vietnam.

Do you need to speak the local language to move to a cheap country?

Not at first, but it's strongly recommended. In Malaysia or some parts of Thailand, English is enough. In Latin America, Spanish is almost essential outside tourist areas. In Vietnam, Georgia or Albania, the language barrier is real, but expat communities and translation apps make the early days easier. Even a basic level helps you negotiate prices. Allow 3 to 6 months of learning before you leave, then a private tutor once you're there (€10-20/hour).

How do you handle health insurance when moving abroad on a small budget?

Health insurance is NON-NEGOTIABLE, even on a tight budget. Three options in increasing order of cost: 1) Local insurance (€50-100/month): take out insurance in your host country. In Vietnam, Pacific Cross or Bao Viet offer decent coverage. Upside: low price, local network. Downside: no repatriation, limited coverage outside the country. 2) Entry-level international insurance (€100-180/month): SafetyWing, Chapka or April International offer plans for digital nomads with repatriation. Worldwide coverage except the United States. 3) CFE + top-up insurance (€150-300/month): continuity with the French system, ideal if you plan regular trips back. The cheapest strategy: local insurance + health savings (€100-200/month set aside) for care that isn't covered. In Vietnam, healthcare costs 60-80% less than in France, so even paying out of pocket, you save money. A specialist consultation: €30, an MRI: €150, a hospital stay: €500-2,000 depending on length.

What are the essential paperwork steps before you leave?

The critical steps to take BEFORE you leave: 1) Taxes: see a tax advisor to understand your status (tax resident/non-resident), your filing obligations and how to optimize your situation. Non-residence rests on three criteria: fewer than 183 days a year in France, and your center of vital interests and main professional activity abroad. Cost: €300-500; potential savings: several thousand euros a year. 2) Visa: look into long-term visas for your destination. Some countries (Georgia, Mexico) offer 1 year automatically; others (Vietnam, Thailand) require specific procedures. Our guide to Vietnam visas covers all the options. 3) Bank: tell your bank you're moving abroad (to avoid your card being blocked), check international fees and consider a neobank (Wise, Revolut) to keep fees down. 4) Health insurance: sign up BEFORE you leave (some insurers refuse new policies once you're abroad). 5) Documents: scan your passport, diplomas, bank statements and medical certificates (secure cloud). 6) Mailing address: decide where your mail will go (family, a mail-forwarding service). 7) Taxes: notify the tax office of your departure and your new address. Recommended timeline: start 6-12 months before you leave to avoid rushing.

08Conclusion: Your Affordable Move Abroad Starts Now

Moving abroad on a budget in 2026 isn't an impossible dream; it's a reality for thousands of French people who dared to take the leap. Whether you're aiming for Vietnam, Thailand, Portugal, Colombia or another destination, the secret lies in careful preparation, a realistic budget and flexibility.

The numbers are clear: with €800-1,200 a month, you can live comfortably in countries like Vietnam and enjoy a better quality of life than you know in France. The upfront cost (€9,000-12,000) may seem high, but it's an investment in your freedom and happiness.

The keys to success:

• Choose your destination based on objective criteria (visa, cost of living, infrastructure)
• Build up at least 6 months of emergency savings
• Include recurring expenses (flights, visas, bank fees) in your budget
• Develop portable income sources BEFORE you leave
• Test your destination for 1-3 months before committing
• Optimize your taxes with the help of an expert
• Integrate locally to cut your costs and enrich your experience
• Take out suitable health insurance (non-negotiable)

Vietnam, and Da Nang in particular, stands out as THE ideal destination for a successful low-cost move in 2026: an unbeatable cost of living, modern infrastructure, exceptional safety, a lively French-speaking community and a remarkable seaside quality of life.