France named best country to live
09 January 2010
France has been named the best country to live for the fifth year in a row by the US magazine International Living. Every January the magazine produces a ranking quality of life in countries throughout the world.
International Living ranked 194 countries for the 2010 edition in nine different categories. France received the highest marks for its healthcare system and freedom, and near the top for its infrastructure. The magazine praises Paris as offering the best of everything, as well as Corsica, Provence and several other popular regions.
The magazine also notes that “Provincial French properties are often keenly priced and lifestyles are less expensive than Paris. The Southwestern Midi-Pyrenees region is a particularly good hunting ground for village homes for less than $100,000—and classic three-course lunches for $14.”