0:00:02 > 0:00:04150 years ago, the beautiful vineyards behind me were
0:00:04 > 0:00:09ravaged by millions of parasites, devastating the land and the people.
0:00:09 > 0:00:12Find out what happened and where I am in just a moment.
0:00:32 > 0:00:35Today's buyers are taking their continental love affair
0:00:35 > 0:00:38one step further with plans afoot to create a new life together
0:00:38 > 0:00:42across the Channel. It's very romantic, isn't it, Jill?
0:00:42 > 0:00:45- Oh, absolutely, darling.- Yes.
0:00:47 > 0:00:51But their starry-eyed fantasy may need to move with the times.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54It's really hip, but how hip are you two?
0:00:54 > 0:00:55I think the word hip
0:00:55 > 0:00:59is not what you would automatically describe me as being!
0:01:01 > 0:01:05I'm in the South of France in the Languedoc-Roussillon region,
0:01:05 > 0:01:09and this area produces more wine than anywhere else in the world.
0:01:09 > 0:01:13That's more wine than Australia, Bordeaux, South Africa
0:01:13 > 0:01:15and Chile all put together.
0:01:15 > 0:01:21But in 1875, the French economy was plunged into turmoil when a deadly
0:01:21 > 0:01:26parasite was unwittingly brought into Europe on American vines.
0:01:26 > 0:01:29Thankfully, the vineyards have been replanted
0:01:29 > 0:01:30and the economy shot back up.
0:01:30 > 0:01:35And now, here, they produce a third of all French wine.
0:01:35 > 0:01:40That's around two billion bottles every year.
0:01:40 > 0:01:41Right down on the Spanish border
0:01:41 > 0:01:45and stretching across an area from the Mediterranean to the Pyrenees,
0:01:45 > 0:01:51Languedoc-Roussillon covers a wild and massive 10,000 square miles.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54A sunbaked region of vine-covered hills, wide, sandy beaches
0:01:54 > 0:01:56and pretty, historic villages,
0:01:56 > 0:01:59Languedoc owes much of its roots to the Romans.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02It was on this rugged French terrain
0:02:02 > 0:02:04around 19 BC that they built Pont du Gard,
0:02:04 > 0:02:07an astonishing three-tier aqueduct that rises
0:02:07 > 0:02:10some 50 metres above the river's deep valley.
0:02:11 > 0:02:13Whilst one foot is in the past,
0:02:13 > 0:02:15the other is firmly investing in the future
0:02:15 > 0:02:18as Languedoc's capital, Montpellier,
0:02:18 > 0:02:22is world-renowned for academic excellence as well as the arts.
0:02:22 > 0:02:25This energetic city is also home to the most modern
0:02:25 > 0:02:27and stylish tram networks in the country,
0:02:27 > 0:02:32dynamically decorated by the French fashionista Christian Lacroix.
0:02:32 > 0:02:35With contrasting cultures, construction
0:02:35 > 0:02:38and landscapes fringed by over 100 miles of coast,
0:02:38 > 0:02:42Languedoc-Roussillon makes a fascinating foundation
0:02:42 > 0:02:45from where to set up home with the added bonus
0:02:45 > 0:02:49of some 300 days of glorious sunshine every year.
0:02:51 > 0:02:55The great news is, it's good value for money in France.
0:02:55 > 0:02:59The average house price in this region is about £160,000,
0:02:59 > 0:03:03which is £100,000 cheaper than the national average back home.
0:03:03 > 0:03:06But, of course, you pay depending on the area that you want to live in.
0:03:06 > 0:03:11So if it's a coastal view you're after, expect to pay a 30% premium.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14But what is it about this region that's attracted our buyers?
0:03:14 > 0:03:16Let's meet them to find out.
0:03:17 > 0:03:19Milton Keynes-based retirees Dave and Jill
0:03:19 > 0:03:23aren't averse to a challenge when it comes to setting up home.
0:03:23 > 0:03:25They decided the best way to get the right house that would
0:03:25 > 0:03:30fit their large family was to start from scratch and build it.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34We have four daughters, the youngest two of which are twins,
0:03:34 > 0:03:36and we wanted them all to have the same size room.
0:03:36 > 0:03:38The only way we could get that, affordably,
0:03:38 > 0:03:40was basically build our home.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43- We've never regretted it but I don't think we'd do it again!- No.
0:03:43 > 0:03:44I think it's a one-off.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48After ten years in their custom-designed home,
0:03:48 > 0:03:51their daughters are now grown up and they've set their sights
0:03:51 > 0:03:55on the next property adventure, this time in southern France.
0:03:55 > 0:03:58Well, last year, after having visited Le Grau-du-Roi,
0:03:58 > 0:04:03and we also went to Aigues-Mortes and various other places around there,
0:04:03 > 0:04:07all in the Languedoc region, we thought, right, this suits us fine.
0:04:07 > 0:04:12It's got a lot to offer. The beaches are absolutely out of this world.
0:04:12 > 0:04:16We also picked up all those estate agent brochures
0:04:16 > 0:04:20and we looked at the prices and they were affordable.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23So I think that that whet our appetite for the area.
0:04:23 > 0:04:27Dave has recently retired from his work in electrical engineering
0:04:27 > 0:04:29and Jill from primary school teaching,
0:04:29 > 0:04:33so now they have more time to focus on their shared passions.
0:04:33 > 0:04:34We both play boules.
0:04:34 > 0:04:37We think it's quite a nice Sunday afternoon, seeing everybody.
0:04:37 > 0:04:39I don't think I'd probably wear a beret or not,
0:04:39 > 0:04:42but we might go for that eventually!
0:04:42 > 0:04:44And this Francophile pair are so committed to crossing
0:04:44 > 0:04:47the Channel, it seems it won't be long before berets are,
0:04:47 > 0:04:49indeed, a permanent fixture.
0:04:49 > 0:04:52We're not after going somewhere where there's tourists,
0:04:52 > 0:04:54British, Italian or whatever.
0:04:54 > 0:04:56We want to meet the French.
0:04:57 > 0:05:01It's actually Jill's long-held dream to relocate to the mainland, and
0:05:01 > 0:05:05she's already brought some French flavour into their current home.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07I've always cooked everything from scratch.
0:05:07 > 0:05:11Some things are a success and some things aren't such a success.
0:05:11 > 0:05:14What French things do you particularly like that I do?
0:05:14 > 0:05:17- Well, the moules.- Yes.
0:05:17 > 0:05:21We eat quite a lot of mussels done in lots of different ways, don't we?
0:05:21 > 0:05:25- All the different sauces, yes. - And also coq au vin.
0:05:25 > 0:05:30- You love things in a red wine sauce. - And the snails, yes.
0:05:30 > 0:05:34- Yes, the snails.- I'd eat anything French, yes. French cheeses.
0:05:34 > 0:05:37Yes, we do that a lot, don't we? Put camembert in the oven.
0:05:37 > 0:05:39That's quick and easy, isn't it?
0:05:40 > 0:05:44They've clearly embraced rustic French flair in the kitchen
0:05:44 > 0:05:46and in their recreational pastimes,
0:05:46 > 0:05:49so the final step is to actually move out to their beloved France.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53And when it comes to the new house, it must be equally a la mode.
0:05:54 > 0:05:57Enjoying that? I like character.
0:05:57 > 0:06:03I don't really want the bland, modern home. It's got to feel French.
0:06:03 > 0:06:06I'd like to feel that when I'm in the home, that I'm in a French house.
0:06:06 > 0:06:08All the windows will be shuttered.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11There could well be a gravel drive leading up the front to it.
0:06:11 > 0:06:12There will be vines.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14It must have a swimming pool
0:06:14 > 0:06:18and probably a minimum of half an acre, landwise.
0:06:18 > 0:06:21Sounds like they're after a pretty impressive property,
0:06:21 > 0:06:24- and luckily, they have the funds that should fit.- Cheers!
0:06:24 > 0:06:28Our budget for the move is between £500,000 and £650,000.
0:06:31 > 0:06:34Our couple want to relocate to Languedoc but are yet to
0:06:34 > 0:06:39pinpoint an exact location within this expansive region.
0:06:39 > 0:06:42And now they've arrived in France, we're all meeting up
0:06:42 > 0:06:45to find out more about their prospective migration.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49Jill, Dave, I should say, welcome back to France!
0:06:49 > 0:06:51Well, yes, we've been here a few times.
0:06:51 > 0:06:57- How many times have you been here? - Lost count, probably.- Yes. Loads!
0:06:57 > 0:07:00Why do you want to live in this particular region?
0:07:00 > 0:07:02The weather, I think.
0:07:02 > 0:07:03Yes, and the proximity to the Med
0:07:03 > 0:07:08because we are planning on buying a boat, so that is a priority.
0:07:08 > 0:07:10- So we don't want to be too far from the sea.- I like Dave.
0:07:10 > 0:07:13He's instantly got his priority in there! There's a boat, Anita.
0:07:13 > 0:07:18- It's not just a property. A boat! - A boat as well, yes.- Noted.
0:07:18 > 0:07:20What about these four gorgeous daughters?
0:07:20 > 0:07:23You'll be leaving them behind, upping sticks,
0:07:23 > 0:07:25- coming to a foreign land. - We're going to France.
0:07:25 > 0:07:30- We're not going to the moon!- As long as we see one another regularly.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33And what are you looking for from this property?
0:07:33 > 0:07:35Two studies, cos he's always moaning at me
0:07:35 > 0:07:38that I'm messing up the computer.
0:07:38 > 0:07:43So that would mean we'd probably have to use bedrooms as studies.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46And we've come to the conclusion we need four,
0:07:46 > 0:07:50and then downstairs has to have a large kitchen, which we're
0:07:50 > 0:07:56prepared to make larger, ie we'd be knocking down a wall, if necessary.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58- We're flexible on the internals. - Yes.
0:07:58 > 0:08:03We want not to be isolated, so within a community.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06- And we'd like to take part within that community.- Yes.- Are you ready?
0:08:06 > 0:08:10- Yes.- Absolutely!- Shall I take you to the first one?- Please do, yes.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13- Absolument!- Follow me. Very good. This way.
0:08:14 > 0:08:17For a top budget of £650,000,
0:08:17 > 0:08:20our buyers are looking for a traditional French home
0:08:20 > 0:08:24that offers four bedrooms, a spacious kitchen/diner in a large
0:08:24 > 0:08:26plot of land that has a swimming pool.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29They're up for a little remodelling to get the property just right,
0:08:29 > 0:08:33but the location must be within an hour of the sea.
0:08:33 > 0:08:36And we've got an arresting assortment of beautiful
0:08:36 > 0:08:39French houses that will take our buyers right through
0:08:39 > 0:08:41the property ages, including the mystery house,
0:08:41 > 0:08:45where the present joins forces with the past.
0:08:45 > 0:08:49And one of these enticing houses will be guaranteed to become
0:08:49 > 0:08:54Jill and Dave's home sweet home for the short haul, at the very least.
0:08:58 > 0:09:01For the first property, we're starting just over
0:09:01 > 0:09:04half an hour's drive from the coast in the village of Peret.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08Set amidst vast, verdant agricultural land,
0:09:08 > 0:09:11Peret is a small and quiet village with many historic buildings
0:09:11 > 0:09:15a fading grandeur, which house a number of essential amenities,
0:09:15 > 0:09:17including a general store with a butcher's,
0:09:17 > 0:09:20a baker's and a post office.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23The house lies within walking distance of the shops
0:09:23 > 0:09:26and epitomises rustic French style, so I'm hopeful
0:09:26 > 0:09:31that it's somewhere Dave and Jill will feel really at home.
0:09:31 > 0:09:36- And this is the first property. - Very nice.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39Well, it's got what we wanted - shutters, stone walls.
0:09:39 > 0:09:44- It's picture perfect.- Does the blue sky come guaranteed with it?
0:09:44 > 0:09:46You know more about France than I do, Jill.
0:09:46 > 0:09:49I can see myself here straightaway, from the outside.
0:09:49 > 0:09:52For the rest of your time here in France,
0:09:52 > 0:09:56- this is where you'll be staying. - Ah! You've got to be joking?
0:09:56 > 0:10:00- No, deadly serious. - Certainly get the feel for it, then.
0:10:00 > 0:10:02- What do you think?- Different. Very different.
0:10:02 > 0:10:05- I think that's a wonderful idea. - Makes sense, doesn't it?
0:10:05 > 0:10:11- Absolutely great!- Good.- What do you think, Dave?- Well, it makes sense.
0:10:13 > 0:10:17- I really didn't expect anything like this.- He-he-he-he-he!
0:10:17 > 0:10:20It was built in 1800. That's what it says on the deeds.
0:10:20 > 0:10:23- I would never have believed that. - I thought it was younger than that.
0:10:23 > 0:10:26I mean, that's not a bad thing, don't get me wrong.
0:10:26 > 0:10:30- But I would never have thought it was that old.- No.- I can't wait to go in.
0:10:30 > 0:10:32- Excellent. Shall we do it? - Certainly, yes.
0:10:32 > 0:10:34We'll go through the front door.
0:10:34 > 0:10:37This wonderfully spacious 200-year-old stone-built property
0:10:37 > 0:10:41will be David and Jill's base during the house search.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44The accommodation spreads itself over three floors
0:10:44 > 0:10:47and was completely renovated in the late '90s.
0:10:47 > 0:10:50We're beginning the tour in the main reception rooms
0:10:50 > 0:10:53on the ground floor, where there's an L-shaped dining
0:10:53 > 0:10:56and living area as well as a fully fitted country kitchen.
0:10:59 > 0:11:03- Now, this is the dining room.- Right. - That's the kitchen, through there.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06And you wanted something old, you wanted something charming,
0:11:06 > 0:11:11- with character.- With the beams, yes. - Aren't they amazing?
0:11:11 > 0:11:14- That is a working open fire.- A wood burner, yes.- Spectacular, isn't it?
0:11:14 > 0:11:17Yes. We like that, don't we? Yes.
0:11:17 > 0:11:19Well, it's certainly got loads of character.
0:11:19 > 0:11:25I love the fact that you've got part stone, part painted.
0:11:25 > 0:11:28I like doors with glass in. We're used to that, aren't we?
0:11:28 > 0:11:32- They're nice, the tiles. - Yes, we love that, don't we?
0:11:32 > 0:11:34- Well, there's lots more to show you. - Oh, can't wait!
0:11:34 > 0:11:37- Are you ready to go upstairs? - Yes, yes. Fine, thank you.- This way.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39- Good vibes so far.- Good.
0:11:39 > 0:11:42The wooden staircase from the reception areas take us
0:11:42 > 0:11:44straight up to the first floor,
0:11:44 > 0:11:48where a large study leads straight into the beautiful master bedroom.
0:11:49 > 0:11:52Don't hit your head! Come through.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55Come through, come through to this magical room.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59You can tell that this is an old building when you see those beams.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01When you see the shape of the roof, etc, yes.
0:12:01 > 0:12:06With that stunning view to wake up to every morning.
0:12:06 > 0:12:08But it's a really decent-sized double
0:12:08 > 0:12:12and I love the fact that it's got a sloping ceiling cos it gives it
0:12:12 > 0:12:15so much height, so it'll be nice and cool in the summer.
0:12:15 > 0:12:18On this floor, you've also got a single bedroom
0:12:18 > 0:12:20but could be used as another study.
0:12:20 > 0:12:22There's also a really decent-sized bathroom with
0:12:22 > 0:12:25lots of storage in it, all on this floor.
0:12:25 > 0:12:30- I mean, this is a lovely sized room. - It's very romantic, isn't it, Jill?
0:12:30 > 0:12:32- Oh, absolutely, darling.- Yes.
0:12:34 > 0:12:39Well, there's lots more to show you, so follow me. There's more this way.
0:12:39 > 0:12:40Be careful.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42The final floor is back downstairs
0:12:42 > 0:12:46and down again to the lower ground floor, where a separate
0:12:46 > 0:12:50entrance takes us into completely self-contained quarters.
0:12:50 > 0:12:54- This living room.- This is different. - It is, isn't it? Good different?
0:12:54 > 0:12:57Yes, again, it's a good size.
0:12:57 > 0:13:01So on this floor, you have two really decent-sized double bedrooms
0:13:01 > 0:13:04- with their own ensuite shower rooms.- Right.
0:13:04 > 0:13:06And then, this is a living area
0:13:06 > 0:13:09for whoever might have been staying here.
0:13:09 > 0:13:12It means you have a perfectly self-contained area
0:13:12 > 0:13:15for your daughters, for any guests, for any friends.
0:13:15 > 0:13:18Carrying on in the style we would like.
0:13:18 > 0:13:24- I have saved, in my opinion, the best till last.- Really?- Yes.
0:13:24 > 0:13:27- Come with me.- Can't imagine what you're going to show me.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30- Time will tell.- Come on. This way. - You lead the way.
0:13:32 > 0:13:37Through this beautiful garden to this.
0:13:38 > 0:13:42That view is just priceless.
0:13:42 > 0:13:44It's gorgeous.
0:13:44 > 0:13:49Now, below you, you've got the garden with a swimming pool.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51This property comes with quite a lot of land.
0:13:51 > 0:13:56It comes with 0.8 of an acre and it's quite wild
0:13:56 > 0:13:58and quite rugged but you could pretty it up.
0:13:58 > 0:14:03I could see us sitting out here with the sun shining in. Yes.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05- South-facing.- Spot on.
0:14:05 > 0:14:10Now, the one thing you don't know about the house yet is the price.
0:14:10 > 0:14:15- I'll hazard a guess at 525,000. - 525. Jill?
0:14:15 > 0:14:20I think it's on for £550,000.
0:14:20 > 0:14:24OK. It's actually on for less.
0:14:24 > 0:14:29So the whole house, with the view and the pool and the land,
0:14:29 > 0:14:34is currently on at £477,000.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38I want you to go off, I want you to explore the house on your own,
0:14:38 > 0:14:39really get into all the nooks and crannies,
0:14:39 > 0:14:42- discuss it amongst yourselves and I'll catch up with you shortly.- OK.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45- OK? Off you go.- Thank you very much. Thank you.- Enjoy.- Thank you.
0:14:45 > 0:14:50So the price is really good because they can save a lot of money,
0:14:50 > 0:14:54Dave can buy his boat, but is this necessarily the house for them?
0:14:54 > 0:14:55I don't know yet.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00At over £100,000 under budget,
0:15:00 > 0:15:03property number one is a detached stone-built house
0:15:03 > 0:15:06across three floors with many historic, characterful features.
0:15:06 > 0:15:10As a whole, it offers four bedrooms, open-plan living and dining areas,
0:15:10 > 0:15:16paved terraces, an infinity pool and just under an acre of land.
0:15:16 > 0:15:19First impressions on seeing the house were very positive.
0:15:19 > 0:15:23It fulfilled all the criteria we'd suggested, which was possibly
0:15:23 > 0:15:28a stone facade, shutters, nice roof tiles and a typical French look.
0:15:28 > 0:15:30And it certainly came up trumps on that score.
0:15:30 > 0:15:36It's an unexpected property insofar as it's on different levels,
0:15:36 > 0:15:40it's an older house than I thought it was.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42When I found out it was 1800s, I couldn't believe that.
0:15:42 > 0:15:44I think that's lovely.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48The one big concern I've got is that two of the bedrooms
0:15:48 > 0:15:51are downstairs and not attached to the main body of the house,
0:15:51 > 0:15:54so the only way of getting into them is actually go out,
0:15:54 > 0:15:58down a set of stairs and into them, which is not ideal.
0:16:00 > 0:16:04Right. Well, house tour number one completed.
0:16:04 > 0:16:07- Are you still happy to stay here? - Absolutely.- Very.
0:16:07 > 0:16:09- You going to make the most of it? - I think so.
0:16:09 > 0:16:11Dip in the pool could be on the orders, yes?
0:16:11 > 0:16:13- That sounds a good idea to me. - Brilliant.
0:16:13 > 0:16:14I want you to do some local things as well.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17I know you will as well, cos you're up for all of that.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20- And I will catch up with you in the morning.- OK, then.- Great.- Have fun.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22- Thank you very much, then. Bye. - Bye. See you.- Bye.
0:16:29 > 0:16:31Jill and Dave are now on their own
0:16:31 > 0:16:35and have three whole floors of this fascinating property to investigate,
0:16:35 > 0:16:38which will be their home for the duration of the property search.
0:16:40 > 0:16:43Well, this is an odd shape, isn't it? It's obviously small.
0:16:43 > 0:16:47- Smaller than we're used to, yeah. - And you know what I would say.
0:16:47 > 0:16:49- I need a new kitchen!- Yes.
0:16:49 > 0:16:51I was going to say, yeah, basically take it all down and start again.
0:16:51 > 0:16:54Yes. Come on. Let's explore the rest.
0:16:55 > 0:16:58Ooh! It's bigger than I thought.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00I thought it was just going to be like that.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03- Much, much longer, isn't it? Yes. - Oh, look at the showerhead!
0:17:03 > 0:17:07- Yes, very French hotel showerhead, yes.- You love those.
0:17:07 > 0:17:11And it's not long before Dave finds the perfect spot to unwind
0:17:11 > 0:17:15- and contemplate the house hunt so far.- Dipping the feet in the water.
0:17:15 > 0:17:19- I'll join you.- Cool off in the pool at the end of the day.
0:17:19 > 0:17:23- You enjoyed today? - A tiring day of house hunting.
0:17:24 > 0:17:28I've liked what we've seen today. Feeling quite positive about things.
0:17:28 > 0:17:30- I hope you are.- Yes, yes.- Good.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32I'm going to feel positive about having a dip in here
0:17:32 > 0:17:34tomorrow morning before breakfast.
0:17:41 > 0:17:44Our buyers are waking up to their first morning
0:17:44 > 0:17:46in the pretty countryside of Peret
0:17:46 > 0:17:49and they're kickstarting the day with fresh fruit and pastries out
0:17:49 > 0:17:54on the terrace that looks out onto Languedoc's breathtaking scenery.
0:17:54 > 0:17:58- Did you sleep well last night, then? - Yeah, it was lovely. Very nice.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00- Very quiet.- Could get used to this.
0:18:02 > 0:18:05I'm sure you could, and I could if you made breakfast for me.
0:18:05 > 0:18:10- I could manage that one, yes. - Go down to the local shop.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12That baguette is lovely.
0:18:12 > 0:18:15After a decadent breakfast bathed in the sunshine,
0:18:15 > 0:18:19it's about time we got back to the business of properties.
0:18:19 > 0:18:22The next location is 12 miles from the Mediterranean Sea
0:18:22 > 0:18:25in the ancient town of Beziers.
0:18:25 > 0:18:27With roots in the first century BC,
0:18:27 > 0:18:32the historic Beziers is a larger, busier town centred on a wide,
0:18:32 > 0:18:35tree-lined avenue with cafes and restaurants.
0:18:35 > 0:18:36History may surround you here,
0:18:36 > 0:18:40but when it comes to the property we've picked, we're taking a punt
0:18:40 > 0:18:43and jumping a couple of centuries into the future for this one.
0:18:43 > 0:18:47On the outskirts of the town in a quiet, residential street,
0:18:47 > 0:18:49the property is up in an elevated spot
0:18:49 > 0:18:53with a rear view that commands an outstanding panorama,
0:18:53 > 0:18:56so where better to create the best first impressions?
0:18:56 > 0:18:59Winding our way around to here
0:18:59 > 0:19:04- because this is the next property. - To the eye, very pleasing.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07That's the immediate impression, yes.
0:19:07 > 0:19:09- I'm already thinking what I could do with it.- What's that?
0:19:09 > 0:19:13I think it needs colour, but the style is French.
0:19:13 > 0:19:18- And you can Frenchify it even more. - Yes.
0:19:18 > 0:19:23It's not as old as maybe you'd like. It's built 30 years ago.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26I mean, the age of the property's not a problem
0:19:26 > 0:19:28if it's the right property.
0:19:28 > 0:19:29Well, there's lots more to see inside
0:19:29 > 0:19:33- and I can't wait to show you it, so shall we go and do that?- Indeed.
0:19:33 > 0:19:35Why not? OK.
0:19:35 > 0:19:39Built in 1983, the interior of the second option
0:19:39 > 0:19:41is a far cry from the old stone property Jill
0:19:41 > 0:19:44and Dave are currently staying in, so I'm eager to see what
0:19:44 > 0:19:48they make of its more modern and unconventional layout.
0:19:48 > 0:19:49In we come...
0:19:53 > 0:20:00..into this rather open and, I would describe, tres chic living area.
0:20:00 > 0:20:05Loads of space. You've got the dining room behind you.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08It's very open-plan.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11The beautiful views out across in front of us.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14The fireplace that works.
0:20:14 > 0:20:17- It does help. - I like the different levels.
0:20:17 > 0:20:21Also on this floor you've got a study.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23You've got quite a large bedroom
0:20:23 > 0:20:26that they're currently using as a master bedroom.
0:20:26 > 0:20:29All of it looking out on to your garden and to that view.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32- Not bad, huh?- Yes.
0:20:32 > 0:20:35Was it what you're expecting, Dave?
0:20:35 > 0:20:36In a word, no.
0:20:37 > 0:20:40It's not very French inside, to my mind.
0:20:40 > 0:20:44It's got space, which is what we want. It's got lovely views.
0:20:44 > 0:20:46Very modernistic.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48- I don't like open-plan.- Right.
0:20:48 > 0:20:50So we might be putting a wall or two back in.
0:20:50 > 0:20:52It's just too open.
0:20:52 > 0:20:55You don't know where one room supposedly starts, another finishes.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58I think we like a distinct wall or a door between rooms.
0:20:58 > 0:21:04And also, we like to do different things at the same time
0:21:04 > 0:21:07and I'll have my music blaring away
0:21:07 > 0:21:10and Dave certainly doesn't want to be able to hear that.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12I know you love to cook, Jill, so let's take you both to the kitchen.
0:21:12 > 0:21:14- I can't wait.- It's this way.
0:21:18 > 0:21:23And into the kitchen.
0:21:23 > 0:21:24Decent size.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27Particularly because it's got that through dining area
0:21:27 > 0:21:30on the other side which has got loads of height.
0:21:30 > 0:21:32it's quite a blank canvas in here.
0:21:32 > 0:21:36I like that, cos then you can put your mark to it.
0:21:36 > 0:21:39You don't want something that's completely finished
0:21:39 > 0:21:40and untouchable, really.
0:21:42 > 0:21:45That ties up all the downstairs accommodation,
0:21:45 > 0:21:47but as well as the ground floor master en suite, there are
0:21:47 > 0:21:51four bedrooms in total and the remaining three all lie upstairs.
0:21:53 > 0:21:55Come into this bedroom.
0:21:55 > 0:21:58Really decent-sized double bedroom.
0:21:58 > 0:22:00Nice big storage cupboard.
0:22:00 > 0:22:04The fantastic view out of that really charming window.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07It's a good size. We can do what we want with it, basically.
0:22:07 > 0:22:09I agree with you, yes.
0:22:09 > 0:22:14On this floor, you've got two bathrooms, decent sized,
0:22:14 > 0:22:15and three bedrooms
0:22:15 > 0:22:18that you could do any which way you want. Have a couple of studies.
0:22:18 > 0:22:22Have one study. Have two spare rooms. However you want to do it.
0:22:22 > 0:22:24You've seen that there's lots of rooms in this house.
0:22:24 > 0:22:27There's also a beautiful garden that I'd love to show you.
0:22:27 > 0:22:28- So, this way.- OK.
0:22:29 > 0:22:33All in all, I'd say we've received a pretty lukewarm response to
0:22:33 > 0:22:35the internal tour of this more modern house.
0:22:35 > 0:22:38But hopefully another chance to get into the sunshine
0:22:38 > 0:22:41will brighten the mood.
0:22:41 > 0:22:43And there's plenty to smile about in the large garden
0:22:43 > 0:22:46with lawned terraces, a covered barbecue area,
0:22:46 > 0:22:50mature trees and the all-essential swimming pool.
0:22:50 > 0:22:54You've got half an acre of land attached to this property.
0:22:54 > 0:22:56And quite a beautiful garden.
0:22:56 > 0:22:59Garden-wise I think it's spot on, near enough.
0:22:59 > 0:23:01So let's talk about price.
0:23:01 > 0:23:07I think I would put a price tag of...£560,000.
0:23:08 > 0:23:12I'm going to go a tad higher, 575.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14You're not far off.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17It's actually on at £585,000.
0:23:17 > 0:23:21I'd like you to go back in there, have another wander around,
0:23:21 > 0:23:23take it all in and we'll catch up in a bit.
0:23:23 > 0:23:25- Thanks a lot.- Off you go.
0:23:28 > 0:23:31Once again hugely under budget,
0:23:31 > 0:23:34this second property is a spacious open-plan villa that also offers
0:23:34 > 0:23:37separate rooms including a large kitchen/diner,
0:23:37 > 0:23:40a study, as well as four bedrooms.
0:23:40 > 0:23:43Outside, the generous grounds feature fabulous far-reaching views
0:23:43 > 0:23:46and a swimming pool.
0:23:46 > 0:23:47This is lovely.
0:23:47 > 0:23:49This is a fair size. Yes.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52We weren't looking for something so modern.
0:23:52 > 0:23:55We're after much more of a traditional look
0:23:55 > 0:23:58which unfortunately this property didn't provide.
0:23:58 > 0:24:02I want to live in a home which not only from the outside looks French
0:24:02 > 0:24:07but also has French characteristics inside.
0:24:07 > 0:24:12I like for instance the French doors and I like the beams.
0:24:12 > 0:24:15It doesn't have to have beams, but those are sort of French
0:24:15 > 0:24:20characteristics that this property unfortunately doesn't have.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23I think we're exactly in agreement with this property that
0:24:23 > 0:24:25unfortunately it's not for us.
0:24:30 > 0:24:32The house looks very different on the outside
0:24:32 > 0:24:35to how it is on the inside.
0:24:35 > 0:24:37- Very much so. - Lots for you to think about.
0:24:37 > 0:24:40- Have you seen enough? - I think so, yes.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42- I have too.- Then follow me this way.
0:24:50 > 0:24:54Jill and Dave have rather rustic ideas about bricks and mortar.
0:24:54 > 0:24:55But as they've just seen,
0:24:55 > 0:24:59there's more to French design than provincial farmhouses.
0:24:59 > 0:25:01And architectural innovation perfectly complements
0:25:01 > 0:25:051,000 years of tradition in the region's cosmopolitan capital
0:25:05 > 0:25:09Montpellier, which is also a hotbed for artistic progression.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13So, keen to learn more about Languedoc's diverse arts
0:25:13 > 0:25:17and culture, we've arranged for our buyers to visit the workshop
0:25:17 > 0:25:20of Frederic Chaudiere, one of the city's elite group of luthiers
0:25:20 > 0:25:23who've revived the practice of violin-making.
0:25:27 > 0:25:30- Hello.- Bonjour, Frederic. - Bonjour.- Hello.
0:25:30 > 0:25:32I'm Jill and this is my husband Dave.
0:25:32 > 0:25:35- Bonjour, Frederic.- Pleased to meet you.- Nice to meet you.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40This is a lovely workshop. Wow.
0:25:40 > 0:25:42Everything is done in this room.
0:25:42 > 0:25:46No machinery, just hand tools.
0:25:46 > 0:25:48- Wood, glue, varnish. - That's incredible.
0:25:48 > 0:25:51I would have thought you'd use some form of machinery.
0:25:51 > 0:25:52No, we don't.
0:25:52 > 0:25:56The first record of violin makers in Montpellier dates back to
0:25:56 > 0:25:57the late 18th century.
0:25:57 > 0:26:00But with the changing fashion for recorded music,
0:26:00 > 0:26:03the tradition had died out in the 20th century.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06The process starts with maple boards which are joined together
0:26:06 > 0:26:08to form the main body.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11A violin shape is then traced onto the boards
0:26:11 > 0:26:14and sawn out before the wood is hollowed and refined.
0:26:14 > 0:26:19- Do you use sandpaper?- We don't. But we have our scrapers.
0:26:19 > 0:26:21This is steel.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24The control you get with this kind of tool is far better
0:26:24 > 0:26:26than with sandpaper.
0:26:26 > 0:26:27You take that.
0:26:29 > 0:26:32Oh, look at that. See if you can do it.
0:26:33 > 0:26:35- You have to press quite hard?- Yes.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38- You want to have a try?- OK.
0:26:40 > 0:26:41That's great.
0:26:41 > 0:26:43The front plate is usually spruce
0:26:43 > 0:26:47and is sandwiched to the back with the ribs which are the curved sides.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49Then, once the neck has been added
0:26:49 > 0:26:52and the complete form has been created, the violin is varnished.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55What's important with the varnish is first of all, with transparency.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58So it has to be as dark as possible.
0:26:58 > 0:27:00Beautiful, yes.
0:27:00 > 0:27:02And has to apply smoothly.
0:27:02 > 0:27:06And has to be resistant to rubbing,
0:27:06 > 0:27:09to sweat, to moisture.
0:27:09 > 0:27:12Do you ever play any of these instruments?
0:27:12 > 0:27:15Actually, I don't. It's a job in itself to play the violin.
0:27:17 > 0:27:21The skill and satisfaction of this craft is to create an instrument
0:27:21 > 0:27:24that will retain its excellence for generations.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27But the real pleasure is listening to it being played.
0:27:27 > 0:27:31Frederic has organised a trio from Montpellier's national orchestra
0:27:31 > 0:27:34to give an exclusive performance of the aria
0:27:34 > 0:27:38from Bach's Goldberg Variations in the small concert hall downstairs.
0:28:23 > 0:28:26The next property lies in Magalas which will take our buyers
0:28:26 > 0:28:31just a little further inland and so a bit further away from the sea.
0:28:31 > 0:28:34And there's a good selection of essential amenities within
0:28:34 > 0:28:37the small town of Magalas which is a short walk away from the house
0:28:37 > 0:28:39we've lined up.
0:28:39 > 0:28:44Let me introduce you to the next property.
0:28:44 > 0:28:46Now that is a whole lot of house.
0:28:46 > 0:28:48I think it's excellent.
0:28:48 > 0:28:50Give me a high-five on that, Jill.
0:28:50 > 0:28:52Lovely. Good reaction.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54- How about you?- Yes, I would agree.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57It's very good looking from this aspect, yes.
0:28:57 > 0:28:59How old do you think it is, Dave?
0:29:01 > 0:29:03- 1920s, '30s.- Older.
0:29:03 > 0:29:06I would say...1880.
0:29:07 > 0:29:12- I don't want to take the sheen off it, but it's five years old.- Is it?!
0:29:12 > 0:29:15- It's a baby.- We're the experts.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17- It looks old. - It does, doesn't it?
0:29:17 > 0:29:19It's been designed
0:29:19 > 0:29:23and built specifically by the owner who is a builder himself.
0:29:23 > 0:29:25- Are you ready to go in? - I'm looking forward to it.
0:29:25 > 0:29:28- Definitely.- Come on then, this way.
0:29:28 > 0:29:32The requested checklist is all there from the outside, with a long
0:29:32 > 0:29:35gravel driveway, shuttered windows and climbing vines.
0:29:35 > 0:29:39But this property will really challenge Jill and Dave's
0:29:39 > 0:29:43preconceptions of French style because although it is very French,
0:29:43 > 0:29:46and very stylish, it certainly isn't rustic.
0:29:48 > 0:29:50In you come.
0:29:51 > 0:29:56Straight into this huge lounge, kitchen, dining area.
0:29:56 > 0:30:00It's really hip. But how hip are you two?
0:30:00 > 0:30:03I think the word hip is not what you would automatically describe me
0:30:03 > 0:30:06- as being!- And I say I'm not at all.
0:30:06 > 0:30:10- No, definitely not, no. - But, erm...- What do you think?
0:30:10 > 0:30:13We've got the old and the new within the same eyeline,
0:30:13 > 0:30:16and it takes a bit of getting used to.
0:30:16 > 0:30:18Jill, you're the one who does all the cooking,
0:30:18 > 0:30:21so what do you think of that kitchen? Is that appealing to you?
0:30:21 > 0:30:25No. Because Dave knows that I won't have stainless steel.
0:30:25 > 0:30:29- No, we're not particularly keen on stainless steel, no.- Why not?
0:30:29 > 0:30:34I don't like it. We've never ever had anything quite like that, have we?
0:30:34 > 0:30:37There is nothing English, nothing country cottage,
0:30:37 > 0:30:39nothing old about this.
0:30:39 > 0:30:42- That is a very modern, sleek...- Yes.
0:30:42 > 0:30:43As I said, it's hip.
0:30:43 > 0:30:46I mean, look at the way, the floor, it's got a resin floor.
0:30:46 > 0:30:49- It's lovely, it's beautiful.- I like the floor, yeah.- It's beautiful.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52Yeah. This is about having lots of friends or family round, music on,
0:30:52 > 0:30:56someone cooking over there, it's very chatty, it's very informal.
0:30:56 > 0:31:00But again it's whether you're used to that style of living.
0:31:00 > 0:31:03If we had the four children here that might be different,
0:31:03 > 0:31:06but I don't think they're going to come every weekend.
0:31:06 > 0:31:08Let's go and have a closer look at the living area.
0:31:10 > 0:31:12A very different feel, and they've managed to cut it off
0:31:12 > 0:31:14by putting the sofa the way it is.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17But again it's about whether this is your way of living.
0:31:17 > 0:31:20Well, we'll be spending a lot of time in this room, yes.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- It's our future, isn't it?- Yes.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25I mean, this area on its own, divided from the kitchen area,
0:31:25 > 0:31:26I think would be fine.
0:31:26 > 0:31:30But I can't really see myself sitting over there and Jill
0:31:30 > 0:31:33cooking away with the noise, the clangs, the smells etc, etc.
0:31:33 > 0:31:36- With my music on and you trying to watch television.- Yes.
0:31:36 > 0:31:39I had high hopes cos outside was...
0:31:39 > 0:31:41It looked totally different
0:31:41 > 0:31:44to what the inside is actually looking like, yes.
0:31:46 > 0:31:49'Regrettably, it's clear that the beautiful through living
0:31:49 > 0:31:52'and kitchen zones just aren't working for Jill or Dave,
0:31:52 > 0:31:55'but there's plenty more to see on the ground floor, with walls
0:31:55 > 0:31:59'and doors, including an office,
0:31:59 > 0:32:01'separate utility room
0:32:01 > 0:32:04'and a huge swanky bedroom en-suite.'
0:32:04 > 0:32:08And in you come into, I think you have to agree,
0:32:08 > 0:32:11quite a spectacular master bedroom.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14Just look at the two French doors leading out onto that gorgeous,
0:32:14 > 0:32:17gorgeous garden. Wake up in the morning
0:32:17 > 0:32:18and dive straight into that pool.
0:32:18 > 0:32:21- Straight in, yes. - Yes! I have to agree, yes.
0:32:21 > 0:32:24Fantastic high ceilings, it's got the beams.
0:32:24 > 0:32:27I don't know if the beams are real or not
0:32:27 > 0:32:29but I would like the wood to show.
0:32:29 > 0:32:32This is beautiful, it's very nice.
0:32:32 > 0:32:34It's just not to my taste.
0:32:34 > 0:32:38This is a French house built by a Frenchman to a very French design.
0:32:38 > 0:32:42Yes, but not OUR French design. Not an old French design.
0:32:42 > 0:32:44It's too modern for us.
0:32:45 > 0:32:49'It's really surprising that this property continues to disappoint,
0:32:49 > 0:32:53'despite the very impressive style and dimensions.
0:32:53 > 0:32:56'Upstairs, the polished finish continues,
0:32:56 > 0:32:58'with four more en-suite bedrooms.
0:32:58 > 0:33:00'One is being used as a gym and store room,
0:33:00 > 0:33:04'and the other three are all great sized double rooms,
0:33:04 > 0:33:07'creating bags of space for visiting family and guests.
0:33:07 > 0:33:11'We're making our way back outside to the elegantly landscaped
0:33:11 > 0:33:14'south-facing garden that has two paved terraces
0:33:14 > 0:33:16'and a rather inviting pool.'
0:33:18 > 0:33:22Now the property comes with just over half an acre of land
0:33:22 > 0:33:24and this rather wonderful secluded garden,
0:33:24 > 0:33:26cos you've got really mature trees all the way around.
0:33:26 > 0:33:28- What do you think?- Brilliant.
0:33:28 > 0:33:31I don't think we could ask for any more for the garden or the pool.
0:33:31 > 0:33:35So, Jill, how much do you think this house is priced at?
0:33:35 > 0:33:40I'm going to pitch it at £570,000.
0:33:40 > 0:33:43- Dave?- I think we've got to push up from that figure.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46I'll plump for £610,000.
0:33:46 > 0:33:51- It's actually on at around £650,000. - Oh, my.
0:33:51 > 0:33:53Right.
0:33:53 > 0:33:56Oh, I'm taken aback there, yes.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59With all that in mind, go back in there,
0:33:59 > 0:34:01have another look around, explore the upstairs.
0:34:01 > 0:34:04- There's a huge double garage to look at.- OK.
0:34:04 > 0:34:06Thanks a lot. Okey-doke.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12Right on budget, this immaculate, newly built property
0:34:12 > 0:34:15is a whimsical combination of traditional charm
0:34:15 > 0:34:17with a tres chic design.
0:34:17 > 0:34:20It has a huge ground-floor reception with a modern kitchen
0:34:20 > 0:34:22and living room, five en-suite bedrooms
0:34:22 > 0:34:26and a private landscaped garden with a swimming pool.
0:34:26 > 0:34:30When we arrived, we commented on the gravel drive
0:34:30 > 0:34:32and when I saw the front of the house,
0:34:32 > 0:34:37I thought it was a old typically French-styled home
0:34:37 > 0:34:40and it was excellent, everything I could have wished for.
0:34:40 > 0:34:42Once you come over the door,
0:34:42 > 0:34:44your eyes cast around the room,
0:34:44 > 0:34:47you've two separate bits of the downstairs -
0:34:47 > 0:34:49the olde worlde, with the lovely fireplace,
0:34:49 > 0:34:52and then your eyes swing to the right and you've got this
0:34:52 > 0:34:54stainless-steel kitchen,
0:34:54 > 0:34:56and to my mind, the two just do not gel.
0:34:56 > 0:34:58All the bedrooms were a very good size.
0:34:58 > 0:35:02The one that leads out onto the pool through the French doors,
0:35:02 > 0:35:03that's like a five-star hotel.
0:35:03 > 0:35:07The pool is like something Cleopatra could have jumped into.
0:35:07 > 0:35:08It's bang on for a pool.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12I'm not great on these kidney-shaped pools.
0:35:12 > 0:35:15A rectangular one looks nicer, easier to maintain,
0:35:15 > 0:35:18- and it was a good size.- All in all,
0:35:18 > 0:35:22there's very little I suppose you could say that doesn't please me,
0:35:22 > 0:35:28except that I would say it's a bit too modern for me.
0:35:32 > 0:35:35The intrepid house explorers.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37- Return.- Return! Exactly.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39Are you done?
0:35:39 > 0:35:41- Yes.- We are indeed, yes.
0:35:41 > 0:35:43- This way, then, please.- Good.
0:35:47 > 0:35:51Staying at the first property back in the village of Peret
0:35:51 > 0:35:53for the duration of the search gives Jill and Dave
0:35:53 > 0:35:57a chance to thoroughly explore the house as well as the land.
0:35:57 > 0:36:01- Very quiet. Lovely oak tree behind you.- Yes.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04I did say that's the one thing I wasn't going to do.
0:36:04 > 0:36:07I've done gardening all my life.
0:36:07 > 0:36:10- This is a bit more than gardening. This is forest clearance.- Yes.
0:36:10 > 0:36:12You could get your own wood, couldn't you?
0:36:12 > 0:36:15We can chop our own trees, I assume.
0:36:15 > 0:36:20- You'd have to be careful, chop the right ones down.- Yeah.
0:36:20 > 0:36:25Away from the property, our buyers can also suss out the neighbourhood
0:36:25 > 0:36:27and sample the local restaurants.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30Is this the sort of thing you were expecting,
0:36:30 > 0:36:32as a French resident, for want of a better term?
0:36:32 > 0:36:35I feel very much at ease with it all.
0:36:35 > 0:36:38- I hope you do, cos if you're happy, I am.- Yes.
0:36:38 > 0:36:41What do you think of what you've seen so far?
0:36:41 > 0:36:44- From what I've seen, I think it's ideal.- Yes.
0:36:55 > 0:36:59With Languedoc's vast fertile plains of vineyards,
0:36:59 > 0:37:02the hillside village of Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens
0:37:02 > 0:37:05rises majestically on the landscape.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08Legend has it that this picturesque circular village
0:37:08 > 0:37:11took its name from a local lord who lived here centuries ago
0:37:11 > 0:37:15and was savaged by his guard dogs. As he lay dying,
0:37:15 > 0:37:17it's said that his last words were, "Mauvais chiens!",
0:37:17 > 0:37:20which translates to "bad dogs".
0:37:20 > 0:37:23Today, it's a far more civilised place to reside
0:37:23 > 0:37:27and is home to British expats Bob and Amanda,
0:37:27 > 0:37:30who relocated here from Norfolk over a decade ago,
0:37:30 > 0:37:34so we've arranged for them to share their experiences with Jill and Dave
0:37:34 > 0:37:36over a very French pastime.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39- Hello, there!- Bonjour. - Bonjour, bonjour.
0:37:39 > 0:37:42Bob, Amanda, lovely to see you.
0:37:42 > 0:37:44- Meet Jill and Dave.- ALL: Hello.
0:37:44 > 0:37:46Bonjour.
0:37:46 > 0:37:48These two have lived here for 13 years.
0:37:48 > 0:37:51I thought it'd be good for you two to spend some time together
0:37:51 > 0:37:54- and maybe play a game of petanque. Are you competitive?- Very.
0:37:54 > 0:37:57- How about you guys?- Indeed we are.
0:37:57 > 0:38:00This should be interesting. Best of luck. I'll see you shortly.
0:38:00 > 0:38:05Petanque is played all over France, and almost all towns and villages
0:38:05 > 0:38:06have a bouledrome.
0:38:06 > 0:38:09The modern game was created in the early 20th century,
0:38:09 > 0:38:14and the first petanque tournament was held in France in 1945.
0:38:14 > 0:38:17Since then, the game has become
0:38:17 > 0:38:19one of the most-practised style of bowls in the world
0:38:19 > 0:38:23but is a sport naturally dominated by the French.
0:38:23 > 0:38:26What's the difference between boules and petanque?
0:38:26 > 0:38:30The game is called petanque - or pet-ank as they say down here -
0:38:30 > 0:38:33and it's played using boules
0:38:33 > 0:38:36on a bouledrome,
0:38:36 > 0:38:39but the actual game itself is called petanque.
0:38:39 > 0:38:43We play it with boules and a cochon, or pig,
0:38:43 > 0:38:46and, basically, the simple idea of the game
0:38:46 > 0:38:50is to get the boule as close to the cochon as possible.
0:38:50 > 0:38:53- Shall we have a go?- Why not? Yes.
0:38:53 > 0:38:57We want to throw the cochon itself,
0:38:57 > 0:38:59so we want to get it between six and ten metres,
0:38:59 > 0:39:01something like that,
0:39:01 > 0:39:04and then the team that's thrown the cochon
0:39:04 > 0:39:08then have the first go at throwing the boule.
0:39:09 > 0:39:12OK. And now it's your turn.
0:39:13 > 0:39:16Throw it again, a little less hard.
0:39:18 > 0:39:21That's better. Oh, my goodness me.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23JILL: Is that good or bad?
0:39:23 > 0:39:26AMANDA: That was good, except the cochon has now moved.
0:39:26 > 0:39:28And he's done it!
0:39:28 > 0:39:33So what we do is, we look at who is the closest boule now.
0:39:33 > 0:39:36Although they are similar, that one I'd say was closer.
0:39:36 > 0:39:39So that one is ours, so that means it's one point.
0:39:39 > 0:39:42- Un point!- Un point! Absolutely.
0:39:42 > 0:39:46You keep going until you get to 13.
0:39:49 > 0:39:50Ohh!
0:39:50 > 0:39:52Is it something you play often, Bob?
0:39:52 > 0:39:56If you're looking for a way to get into the local community,
0:39:56 > 0:40:00meet the locals, this is an excellent way doing it.
0:40:00 > 0:40:03After some friendly competition, the two teams are rejoining me
0:40:03 > 0:40:06on the terrace at Bob and Amanda's home,
0:40:06 > 0:40:09where I've already made myself comfortable
0:40:09 > 0:40:11with some coffee and croissants.
0:40:11 > 0:40:13How was it?
0:40:14 > 0:40:16- Lovely. Very good.- Good.
0:40:16 > 0:40:19- Who won?- We did.- We did!
0:40:19 > 0:40:22Well, I think it's important that you dig a bit deeper
0:40:22 > 0:40:25about the reality of living in France
0:40:25 > 0:40:29so, Amanda, just tell us a bit about some of the pitfalls
0:40:29 > 0:40:32that they should be looking out for when they get here.
0:40:32 > 0:40:35There are pitfalls not everybody thinks about,
0:40:35 > 0:40:36especially if you're retired,
0:40:36 > 0:40:39and you're moving out here to your pension,
0:40:39 > 0:40:42so you need to be very aware of exchange rates.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45- Yeah. - Because you can actually think,
0:40:45 > 0:40:48"Oh, well, we've got enough money to live on,
0:40:48 > 0:40:50"we can be comfortable,"
0:40:50 > 0:40:55and then, suddenly, the exchange rate will go horribly wrong
0:40:55 > 0:40:57and then you're thinking,
0:40:57 > 0:41:01"Crumbs, I'm going to have some problems this month."
0:41:01 > 0:41:04What about the cost of living once you're out here?
0:41:04 > 0:41:07I find it rather expensive now.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09Food bills are always quite frightening.
0:41:09 > 0:41:12I do notice, on occasion, when I go back to England
0:41:12 > 0:41:14and you go into the supermarkets,
0:41:14 > 0:41:17the choice you have in English supermarkets
0:41:17 > 0:41:21is very different to the choice you have here.
0:41:21 > 0:41:25Here, it tends to be fruits and vegetables that are in season.
0:41:25 > 0:41:28Meat's pretty expensive here.
0:41:28 > 0:41:33What about cars? How are you finding the price of petrol
0:41:33 > 0:41:37and obviously all the repairs and maintenance?
0:41:37 > 0:41:41Car insurance here in France is considerably higher
0:41:41 > 0:41:43than it is in England.
0:41:43 > 0:41:48They will take into account your no-claims bonus from England.
0:41:48 > 0:41:52What's it like, integrating into French culture? What's it like...
0:41:52 > 0:41:55No matter how much you integrate, you're still the Brits.
0:41:55 > 0:41:59Generally, one of the easiest ways is if have young children
0:41:59 > 0:42:02who are at school, and then you get to meet parents,
0:42:02 > 0:42:04and that's a great way.
0:42:04 > 0:42:07But there are many other ways - by volunteering to do things
0:42:07 > 0:42:09like work on the comite des fetes,
0:42:09 > 0:42:13to maybe work in the village library for some time
0:42:13 > 0:42:15and, as we've already seen, to play petanque
0:42:15 > 0:42:19and to join in with the social activities of the village.
0:42:19 > 0:42:22They are more than happy to welcome you with open arms.
0:42:22 > 0:42:26We're lucky, insofar as we have been over here many times
0:42:26 > 0:42:30and we've always talked with the locals,
0:42:30 > 0:42:33go into the local bars...
0:42:33 > 0:42:35But of course coming somewhere on holiday,
0:42:35 > 0:42:37even if you have been 50-odd times,
0:42:37 > 0:42:41is always going to be totally different to living here.
0:42:41 > 0:42:44But the one thing we have done
0:42:44 > 0:42:46is we haven't always come in summer.
0:42:46 > 0:42:48We've spent Christmases here.
0:42:48 > 0:42:51I think that's important, too.
0:42:51 > 0:42:53The big difference when you live here
0:42:53 > 0:42:56is when your furniture's all unpacked into the house
0:42:56 > 0:43:00and you see the removal lorry pulling away
0:43:00 > 0:43:02and you wave it goodbye
0:43:02 > 0:43:04- and you look at each other...- Panic.
0:43:04 > 0:43:06..and you think, "We're on our own now."
0:43:06 > 0:43:09It makes me feel I want to buy a house in the surrounding area
0:43:09 > 0:43:14so that we can meet and beat them at petanque!
0:43:14 > 0:43:18Bob and Amanda have given our buyers
0:43:18 > 0:43:22a deeper insight into the day-to-day practicalities of life here,
0:43:22 > 0:43:25but buying a house in France is fairly straightforward
0:43:25 > 0:43:28as the country has strict property laws to protect both buyers
0:43:28 > 0:43:32and sellers, though there are a number of things to watch out for.
0:43:32 > 0:43:35The purchase price should include the estate agent's fees
0:43:35 > 0:43:38but always check before you make your offer.
0:43:38 > 0:43:40Expect to pay up to 10% of the property's value
0:43:40 > 0:43:42in taxes and fees.
0:43:42 > 0:43:46Remember that the exchange rate you transfer your pounds into euros
0:43:46 > 0:43:50will have a direct impact on the final costs,
0:43:50 > 0:43:53but you can fix an exchange rate for a later purchase,
0:43:53 > 0:43:57which could potentially save you thousands of pounds.
0:43:57 > 0:44:00And most important of all is to seek sound legal advice
0:44:00 > 0:44:04before proceeding with any property sale.
0:44:04 > 0:44:06But for now, it's time to get back to the house hunt
0:44:06 > 0:44:10as we've got one more house to unveil.
0:44:10 > 0:44:14It's the day of the mystery property.
0:44:14 > 0:44:17They wanted something with character,
0:44:17 > 0:44:21and this house has got it in buckets.
0:44:21 > 0:44:23But I am a little bit worried
0:44:23 > 0:44:25because it could challenge them.
0:44:25 > 0:44:30It's very French, but maybe not in the way they're expecting.
0:44:30 > 0:44:33The final property lies right in the town centre of Servian,
0:44:33 > 0:44:36about 12 miles from the sea.
0:44:36 > 0:44:40This small town is full of southern French charm
0:44:40 > 0:44:42with an old but elegant architecture,
0:44:42 > 0:44:45featuring signature wrought-iron balconies,
0:44:45 > 0:44:48and residents of Servian are well served
0:44:48 > 0:44:50with a good variety of facilities,
0:44:50 > 0:44:52including a couple of boulangeries,
0:44:52 > 0:44:56one of which is just around 300 metres from our last house.
0:44:56 > 0:45:00And the mystery element of this central property
0:45:00 > 0:45:03is that it offers our buyers the smallest plot of land,
0:45:03 > 0:45:06so we're heading into the back entrance
0:45:06 > 0:45:08to find out what type of house and garden
0:45:08 > 0:45:12is hidden behind the very discreet exterior.
0:45:12 > 0:45:18There we come, into this oasis of a property.
0:45:18 > 0:45:21First impressions before I say anything. Dave?
0:45:21 > 0:45:24Very different, yes, yes. Unexpected.
0:45:24 > 0:45:28- Jill?- Yes. Well, it's a townhouse, which is different, isn't it?
0:45:28 > 0:45:32- It's supposed to be the mystery house so it's got to be...- A mystery.
0:45:32 > 0:45:35It is a mystery. It is a townhouse,
0:45:35 > 0:45:38- which looks very modern, doesn't it? - Yes.- And behind you,
0:45:38 > 0:45:41you have a studio flat.
0:45:41 > 0:45:45In there, you've got a bed at the top. It's even got its own en suite.
0:45:45 > 0:45:50Brilliant use of space. And they've got a sheltered garage and carport
0:45:50 > 0:45:53- big enough for two cars. You can see the swimming pool.- Yes.
0:45:53 > 0:45:56- Which is just divine. Let's go in.- OK.
0:45:56 > 0:46:01Both Jill and Dave are keeping quite tight-lipped as I think
0:46:01 > 0:46:03they're both fearing another uber-modern home.
0:46:03 > 0:46:07But I've very high hopes that our couple will be pleasantly surprised
0:46:07 > 0:46:10by this historic property,
0:46:10 > 0:46:13which was completely renovated in 2005.
0:46:13 > 0:46:15Come in.
0:46:15 > 0:46:18Straight into the kitchen.
0:46:18 > 0:46:20I think it's lovely.
0:46:20 > 0:46:23I like beams. That's the first thing I've noticed.
0:46:23 > 0:46:25- And I like the size.- Yes.- Yes.
0:46:25 > 0:46:28And I like the stone. I like the flooring.
0:46:28 > 0:46:33This property is an architecturally designed house
0:46:33 > 0:46:36and everything within it has been designed
0:46:36 > 0:46:40with the most modern, up-to-date, environmentally friendly
0:46:40 > 0:46:44- bits and bobs that you can thinking. - What I'm seeing already, I love.
0:46:44 > 0:46:46That's all I need - a couple of walls to divide.
0:46:46 > 0:46:48I think it's gorgeous.
0:46:48 > 0:46:50- It is, isn't it?- Hmm.
0:46:50 > 0:46:54- Could you see yourself cooking here, though?- Yes. I've seen the range.
0:46:54 > 0:46:57- It's great.- That's what I'm used to. I've seen the sink.
0:46:57 > 0:46:59The sink is incredible.
0:46:59 > 0:47:03- It's a stone sink.- Yes, I can see. - That is the business.- Yes.
0:47:03 > 0:47:06What do you think of this kitchen, Dave?
0:47:06 > 0:47:10I find it very pleasant. I like the fact there's so much window in it,
0:47:10 > 0:47:12glass, that it is light and airy.
0:47:12 > 0:47:14- And it's very French.- Yes.
0:47:14 > 0:47:16Look at those beams.
0:47:16 > 0:47:18They're absolutely gorgeous.
0:47:18 > 0:47:22- Let me show you the rest of the house.- OK.- This way, please.
0:47:24 > 0:47:27Through this gorgeous living room
0:47:27 > 0:47:32into the original part of the house.
0:47:32 > 0:47:38This part of the house dates back to the 19th century,
0:47:38 > 0:47:42and you can see that it's done in keeping with the original style,
0:47:42 > 0:47:45in that everything's been stripped back, exposed.
0:47:45 > 0:47:49The original vaulted ceiling. You've got the steel girders exposed.
0:47:49 > 0:47:52- We love those bricks. - We like vaulted brick ceilings.
0:47:52 > 0:47:55This is a very stylish house.
0:47:55 > 0:47:59- Very stylish.- Yes. I think it's gorgeous.- Yes.
0:47:59 > 0:48:01They have not a lot of furniture in here
0:48:01 > 0:48:04- but they have quite large furniture in here.- They do.
0:48:04 > 0:48:09- And it still looks big. - They've got a good expanse of glass.
0:48:09 > 0:48:12- Could you see yourselves living here?- Yes.
0:48:12 > 0:48:15Take the furniture out and you've got a blank canvas to go on.
0:48:15 > 0:48:17That's good.
0:48:17 > 0:48:19It's very quiet.
0:48:19 > 0:48:21- (It is, isn't it?)- In here. Yes.
0:48:21 > 0:48:24- You can't hear any sound from outside, no.- Lots more to see.
0:48:24 > 0:48:28This is house is full of surprises. This way.
0:48:28 > 0:48:32Utility room, boiler, storage cupboards.
0:48:32 > 0:48:35Downstairs toilet. Fantastic office.
0:48:35 > 0:48:40And that front door was specially made, by hand, for this property.
0:48:40 > 0:48:42Up we go.
0:48:48 > 0:48:51Into the master bedroom.
0:48:51 > 0:48:53- I like this.- Dave, what do you think?
0:48:53 > 0:48:56They've not tried to change it from downstairs,
0:48:56 > 0:48:59which is a good thing. There's no great contrast.
0:48:59 > 0:49:02Again, it's exceptionally well done out.
0:49:02 > 0:49:04They've given it some thought, certainly.
0:49:04 > 0:49:08There's your own private terrace there.
0:49:08 > 0:49:10No door. Straight onto the bathroom.
0:49:10 > 0:49:11It's the French way.
0:49:11 > 0:49:15That's fine. This is our bedroom, this is the bedroom.
0:49:15 > 0:49:18We're not bothered about having a door here, no.
0:49:18 > 0:49:20- It is a proper en suite. - It is indeed.
0:49:20 > 0:49:24I think these doors for the storage are tasteful.
0:49:24 > 0:49:28- I like the feature above the bed. - Yeah. I am so pleased.
0:49:28 > 0:49:30So am I! I think it's gorgeous.
0:49:30 > 0:49:33I like the slanted ceiling
0:49:33 > 0:49:38and I know that without even touching the beams that they are original.
0:49:38 > 0:49:41There are two other bedrooms on this floor, and both come with their own
0:49:41 > 0:49:44en suites, wet rooms,
0:49:44 > 0:49:46done spectacularly.
0:49:46 > 0:49:48Shall we go outside and talk money?
0:49:48 > 0:49:50- Why not?- Yes.- Let's do it.
0:49:51 > 0:49:55Thankfully, all the rooms in this remarkable mystery house
0:49:55 > 0:49:58seem to be delivering in spades so far.
0:49:58 > 0:50:01All that's left is to survey the courtyard garden
0:50:01 > 0:50:04and find out what this mystery lot costs.
0:50:04 > 0:50:06Watch your step, Jill.
0:50:06 > 0:50:10Into the gorgeous garden. Just like the house, everything has been
0:50:10 > 0:50:13thought through out here as well.
0:50:13 > 0:50:17You've got this beautiful pathway that's covered in ivy.
0:50:17 > 0:50:20There's a fountain. It's hard to believe that they've managed to
0:50:20 > 0:50:22cram so much into this garden.
0:50:22 > 0:50:24It's been done very professionally.
0:50:24 > 0:50:27It's been done to our liking, for sure, hasn't it?
0:50:27 > 0:50:31So, that just leaves us with this business.
0:50:31 > 0:50:33- Hmm.- The money, money, money.
0:50:33 > 0:50:35So, why don't we start with you, Jill?
0:50:35 > 0:50:40How much do you think this really rather special property is on at?
0:50:40 > 0:50:45I'm going to put a figure of £700,000.
0:50:46 > 0:50:48- Dave?- Yes.
0:50:48 > 0:50:51I don't think Jill's too far off the mark
0:50:51 > 0:50:54but I'll hedge my bets and go slightly higher at 720,000.
0:50:54 > 0:50:58It's actually on for less.
0:50:58 > 0:51:00Ooh.
0:51:00 > 0:51:04It's on for around £650,000.
0:51:06 > 0:51:08Somewhat surprised, yes.
0:51:08 > 0:51:10- Somewhat surprised?- Yes.
0:51:10 > 0:51:13At least it's edging in the right direction.
0:51:13 > 0:51:15Why don't the two of you go back in,
0:51:15 > 0:51:18really take your time, enjoy looking around this property,
0:51:18 > 0:51:21- and I'll see you in a mo? - OK. Thank you.
0:51:21 > 0:51:24Bang on budget once again, the mystery proposition
0:51:24 > 0:51:27is a striking 19th-century townhouse
0:51:27 > 0:51:31that's been given a contemporary but sympathetic makeover.
0:51:31 > 0:51:34It has an open-plan kitchen-diner,
0:51:34 > 0:51:37three receptions, three en-suite bedrooms,
0:51:37 > 0:51:39an attached one-bedroom studio
0:51:39 > 0:51:42and a landscaped courtyard garden with pool.
0:51:42 > 0:51:45As I entered the kitchen and diner,
0:51:45 > 0:51:47I was so pleasantly surprised by what I saw.
0:51:47 > 0:51:49In fact, I was bowled over.
0:51:49 > 0:51:52I loved the style of the kitchen.
0:51:52 > 0:51:56Even though it has a modern feel to it,
0:51:56 > 0:52:01it was obvious from the word go that it was a very old building
0:52:01 > 0:52:05which had been tastefully renovated.
0:52:05 > 0:52:08First impressions were extremely favourable.
0:52:08 > 0:52:11Love the stonework, love the brickwork, love the beams.
0:52:11 > 0:52:13Basically love the lot.
0:52:13 > 0:52:16The main downfall with the property is the garden
0:52:16 > 0:52:18and the lack of size of it.
0:52:18 > 0:52:21The location I'm afraid I don't particularly like.
0:52:21 > 0:52:26I think we'd like to be just a little bit more on the outskirts.
0:52:27 > 0:52:28Hello, my dears.
0:52:28 > 0:52:30- Hi.- And that is it.
0:52:30 > 0:52:32The house tour's fini.
0:52:32 > 0:52:34- Done.- Yes.
0:52:34 > 0:52:38Are you ready to go off somewhere and have an in-depth conversation?
0:52:38 > 0:52:41- I think so, yes.- Where you can tell me what you're really thinking!
0:52:41 > 0:52:45- Yes.- Come on, then, this way.
0:52:51 > 0:52:54Between western Languedoc and Provence,
0:52:54 > 0:52:59where the River Rhone meets the Mediterranean, is a vast swathe
0:52:59 > 0:53:01of salt marsh land in an area known as the Camargue.
0:53:01 > 0:53:05Here, nature's rich kaleidoscope is alive
0:53:05 > 0:53:11with pink flamingos and black bulls alongside snowy-white horses,
0:53:11 > 0:53:14and the Camargue's serene but barren landscape
0:53:14 > 0:53:18also provides the backdrop to France's very own Wild West.
0:53:18 > 0:53:23Cowboys are named "gardians" and are tough herders and horsemen
0:53:23 > 0:53:25that tend long-horned cattle
0:53:25 > 0:53:27on the backs of the beautiful white horses
0:53:27 > 0:53:31who have cantered across this terrain for thousands of years.
0:53:31 > 0:53:35The highly prized livestock is bred on ranches called "manades",
0:53:35 > 0:53:39and Michel Gilles has invited me for a tour of his ranch
0:53:39 > 0:53:42to see the horses and gardians in action.
0:53:42 > 0:53:46Here you have the cattle.
0:53:46 > 0:53:50And the gardians are there
0:53:50 > 0:53:55and they will push the cattle into that special enclosure.
0:53:55 > 0:53:59So these gardians, will they have been born into this tradition?
0:53:59 > 0:54:02Normally, they are born here,
0:54:02 > 0:54:05they are here in the region for a long time.
0:54:05 > 0:54:08They are not professionals. That is not a job.
0:54:08 > 0:54:11So they don't do this because they have to,
0:54:11 > 0:54:14- they do it to keep the tradition alive?- Yes.
0:54:14 > 0:54:17They're people of the land. They work with the cows
0:54:17 > 0:54:20and they sit on horses, but the difference here is that
0:54:20 > 0:54:24- your horses are ancient... - Special.- Special, yes.
0:54:24 > 0:54:26Yes, you have very special horses.
0:54:26 > 0:54:30The Camargue horse is born dark brown or black in colour,
0:54:30 > 0:54:33growing paler as it ages and turning grey around its fourth year.
0:54:33 > 0:54:36Relatively small in stature but with a strong build,
0:54:36 > 0:54:39they're hardy, wild and rustic animals,
0:54:39 > 0:54:42considered to be one of the oldest breeds in the world
0:54:42 > 0:54:45and prized for having a calm temperament,
0:54:45 > 0:54:48forming strong bonds with their gardian riders.
0:54:48 > 0:54:52Is it possible for me to maybe sit on one of these horses?
0:54:52 > 0:54:54- I don't ride.- Yes.
0:54:54 > 0:54:57- Yes.- But is it possible? - Yes, it's possible.
0:54:57 > 0:55:01Despite my inexperience and my nerves, may I add,
0:55:01 > 0:55:04Michel is kindly allowing me to jump into the saddle
0:55:04 > 0:55:06of his very own horse, Minousse.
0:55:06 > 0:55:09- One...- One.- ..two and three.
0:55:09 > 0:55:10Wey!
0:55:13 > 0:55:17- Maybe we could walk?- As long as you stay with the horse, Michel.- OK.
0:55:17 > 0:55:19THEY LAUGH
0:55:20 > 0:55:23I feel like a cowgirl. Yee-ha!
0:55:23 > 0:55:26But before I ride off into the sunset,
0:55:26 > 0:55:29we need to find out if our buyers Dave and Jill are any closer
0:55:29 > 0:55:32to grabbing this French migration by the reins
0:55:32 > 0:55:36and achieving their dream of buying a property here.
0:55:38 > 0:55:41What are they thinking about all our houses?
0:55:41 > 0:55:43Which is their favourite? Which is the one they could live in?
0:55:43 > 0:55:47Right now, I couldn't tell you. So I'm going to go and ask them.
0:55:47 > 0:55:51And we're finishing up back where we started -
0:55:51 > 0:55:53in the heart of the Peret countryside
0:55:53 > 0:55:55and on the terrace of the very first house,
0:55:55 > 0:55:58which has been Jill and Dave's home for the past few days.
0:55:58 > 0:56:00Hello, there.
0:56:03 > 0:56:05I was going to say, "Are you really ready for this?"
0:56:05 > 0:56:08but now I've seen you in the beret, pff!
0:56:08 > 0:56:12- Well...- Who am I kidding?! - Naturellement.
0:56:12 > 0:56:15Now, you have been here umpteen times. Could you live in this part
0:56:15 > 0:56:18- of France?- Without a doubt, yes.
0:56:18 > 0:56:20I'd love to.
0:56:20 > 0:56:23I haven't seen anything that I haven't really liked
0:56:23 > 0:56:26in the way of the landscape and the scenery.
0:56:26 > 0:56:30We've got fields, mountains, the sea's 20 minutes away,
0:56:30 > 0:56:32- half an hour at the most.- Vineyards.
0:56:32 > 0:56:34What more could one want?
0:56:34 > 0:56:38Any apprehension at this stage between the two of you?
0:56:38 > 0:56:40No! We can't wait.
0:56:40 > 0:56:43We've been ready for a while. We're here now and we're going for it.
0:56:43 > 0:56:45So exciting.
0:56:45 > 0:56:48It's the truth! It's the truth!
0:56:48 > 0:56:51Let's talk about these properties, then.
0:56:51 > 0:56:53What would be the dream for you?
0:56:53 > 0:56:56- I...- I think we've got it in a nutshell.
0:56:56 > 0:57:00- Go on, then. - The mystery house interior,
0:57:00 > 0:57:05Magalas exterior...in the location we're in now,
0:57:05 > 0:57:07in Peret.
0:57:07 > 0:57:10I would agree 100%.
0:57:10 > 0:57:14If we could shoehorn the three into one, we'd have it made to a T.
0:57:14 > 0:57:17So what if I came to Milton Keynes in six months' time
0:57:17 > 0:57:20to have a glass of wine with you, would I find you there?
0:57:20 > 0:57:22- Hopefully not.- No.
0:57:22 > 0:57:24The property we want is out there somewhere
0:57:24 > 0:57:27and now we've got a fairly small area to attack.
0:57:27 > 0:57:30Previously, it was the south of France, then Languedoc-Roussillon
0:57:30 > 0:57:32and now it's a portion of it.
0:57:32 > 0:57:35As you say, the house for you is out there somewhere.
0:57:35 > 0:57:38- So let's drink to that.- Certainly. - Good luck to the two of you.
0:57:38 > 0:57:39- OK. Sante.- Sante.
0:57:39 > 0:57:41Sante.
0:57:41 > 0:57:44BOTH: Sante.
0:57:47 > 0:57:51Jill and Dave are poised and ready for their big move to France.
0:57:51 > 0:57:54In fact, I think Jill was born ready.
0:57:54 > 0:57:57But it's only through their time here with us
0:57:57 > 0:58:00that they have managed to pinpoint exactly where they want to live
0:58:00 > 0:58:03and they've truly fallen in love.
0:58:03 > 0:58:06They have found the place that they want to spend
0:58:06 > 0:58:08the rest of their lives.
0:58:08 > 0:58:12Join me next time for another Escape To The Continent.
0:58:12 > 0:58:16If you wish to escape to the Continent and would like our help,
0:58:16 > 0:58:20please apply online at...