From Dream Life in France to a Nightmare: A Couple's Heartfelt Decision to Return to the US

Imagine moving to France with dreams of an idyllic retirement, only to face a series of unexpected challenges that make you long for home. This is the story of Joanna McIsaac-Kierklo, 74, and her husband Ed Kierklo, 75, who relocated from San Francisco to the picturesque city of Nîmes just over a year ago. What was intended to be a new chapter filled with adventures has quickly turned into a struggle, pushing the couple to reconsider their decision.

The Allure of France

After their move in October 2023, Joanna and Ed found themselves overwhelmed by the bureaucratic hurdles of French life. “We gave it a year here,” shares Joanna. “And we just said, 'Too much grief and no joy.' There's no fun. We're struggling every day.” Despite their efforts to integrate into their new environment, they feel isolated and exhausted.

A Life of Travel

The couple’s backstory adds depth to their predicament. They've been married for two decades and have spent much of their lives traveling together. Joanna recalls, “When I met my husband, we traveled. We’ve had the freedom to move wherever we want since we have no children or close family ties.” Over the years, they have lived in various locales, including a summer home in Northern California and a period in London. Their extensive travel history led them to believe that relocating to France would be a seamless transition.

Unexpected Challenges

However, their experience in Nîmes has been fraught with challenges. Language barriers and complex regulations left Joanna feeling frustrated, particularly when it came to mundane tasks like opening a bank account or finding a doctor. “I have been so busy packing and unpacking that I haven’t really found time to start learning French,” she admits. Joanna also expressed disappointment regarding the food scene, stating, “People say French food is fabulous, but my experience hasn’t matched that reputation. The produce is often sub-par.”

Struggles with Social Life

Social life, which Joanna previously enjoyed in the US, has also been lacking. “I miss interaction. I haven't talked to one person here in three months,” she laments. Despite the friendly dispositions of locals, the cultural and language barriers proved tough to navigate.

Moving to Montpellier

In search of a change, the couple has recently relocated to Montpellier, a city known for its vibrant coastal life, but even that hasn't provided the remedy they sought. Joanna articulates their struggle, “I love France, but I think France is an amazing country just not to live in.”

Preparing to Return Home

Preparations for their return to the US are underway, but they are still waiting to finalize the shipping costs of their belongings and eagerly anticipate the outcome of the upcoming US election, which may further influence their ultimate decision.

A Bittersweet Farewell

In a bittersweet note, Joanna concludes, 'I don’t want to say we failed, but it just didn’t work out.' Their longing for familiarity and community is stronger now than ever. The couple plans a flight back to San Francisco in January, accepting that their chapter in France, while rich in lessons, was not the fairy tale they had envisioned.

The Reality of Expat Life

This story serves as a reminder that the expat dream isn't always as idyllic as it seems. The grass may appear greener, but navigating a new life in a foreign land can often be filled with unexpected trials.