Hello Guys,
Just casting about for opinions and ideas at the moment.
I planned my move from the UK to the sun for 15 years--and still got it wrong!
First choice was France, 2nd Italy but I took the 3rd option and moved to Cyprus--seemed like a good idea at the time--everyone speaks English, road signs all in English, drive on same side of road etc... Moved to a new house on a development (supposedly under"guarantee"--ha!) as this also seemed like the low maintenance option. Now realize I hate the place.
If I give my likes /dislikes could anyone give their opinions on my chances of living contentedly in France?
Like: space, older houses, QUIET--no traffic---- antique shops, markets, auctions, walking, theatre, drama groups (maybe), I have 2 cats and a dog so want somewhere they will be safe from hunters/ traffic/ animal prisoners (all common in Cyprus!)
Dislike: modern estates, noise, traffic,
I speak, understand and can read and write a reasonable amount of French and have started to relearn via CDs and books (and French movie channels!)
ANY and all advice gratefully received. I shall be living alone in France (apart from said pets) but am used to that as been widowed for several years now.
Many thanks,

Hi Joseph,
for your kind and informative replies. I really appreciate the trouble taken.
I shall start looking in France later this year, when I can arrange a trip over. I feel now that I will find more the lifestyle I'm looking for in France, rather in Cyprus. Yes, it?s hot here---we're having a heat wave from Greece at the moment so hit 40C on school playing field today (I'm doing a 3 month supply maternity cover as I had nothing else to do!)but the weather isn't everything.
Why haven't I taken to Cyprus? It's soul-less, I find, with little self-identity. Not everywhere is like Ayia Napa (which is rather pretty by the harbour and quiet in winter/spring) but I feel as if I'm living somewhere between Disneyworld and the set of Desperate Housewives...maybe I have just turned into Grumpy Old Woman
Many thanks,