PODCAST: France hit by 'sordid kidnappings' and the best place to buy a second home?
Host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France's Emma Pearson, Genevieve Mansfield and John Lichfield for the latest episode of the Talking France podcast.
After a brief diversion to the Brittany town that has banned to sale of alcohol to Smurfs, we start by looking at a worrying spate of crimes - the kidnapping of French crypto-currency bosses and members of their families.
You can find the Talking France podcast on Spotify or Apple, download it
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After two Americans were attacked with mini Eiffel Towers in Paris we look at safety issues for tourists and France's strict privacy laws which also cover filming or photographing people in the street.
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Headlines about the UK's post Brexit 'reset' deal with the EU tend to focus on issues like fishing and defence, but the deal also contains things that would have a big impact on the lives of Brits who live in France or visit regularly - we break down the details.
Also up for discussion are hospital waiting times in France, including the areas with the longest and shortest wait times, and the measures that could improve things.
And finally, what is the best part of France in which to buy a second home? We look at the advantages and drawbacks of each part of the country, and some questions to ask before purchasing.
EXTRA READING:
What does UK-EU 'reset' deal really mean for Brits in France?
Everything you need to know about buying a second home in different parts of France
French town breaks world record for number of smurfs
The 14 scams that tourists in Paris need to be aware of
French crypto boss hails 'heroic' duo for foiling kidnap bid
Talking France is a free podcast made possible by the support of paying members of The Local - you can find out more about becoming a member
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