Finding Home in France: Celestine Cooley’s Journey
At 34, Celestine Cooley embarked on her first adventure to France. That trip, spanning from Paris to Cannes, left a deep impression on her, igniting a passion for the culture and lifestyle. “The moment we stepped off the train at Gare du Nord, I felt that France was where I was meant to be,” Cooley, now 74, shared. “It was truly a magical experience.”
After nearly five decades as an executive assistant in Hollywood, Cooley’s dream of living in a French-speaking country came true. In early 2024, just after retirement, she booked a one-way ticket to France and settled in Bordeaux. Cooley expressed a newfound happiness, stating she has no intentions of returning to the U.S. “I live a richer, better, cheaper life here,” she remarked. “This beautiful city is now my home.”
Like many Americans, Cooley faced financial barriers when considering retirement in the U.S. With a modest social security income of $1,428 a month, living in an expensive city was out of reach without draining her limited savings. Los Angeles has only grown pricier, making it increasingly difficult for longtime renters like her.
Cooley is part of a larger trend. Many retirees, families, and digital nomads are leaving the U.S. for more affordable living conditions elsewhere.
When the pandemic struck, Cooley’s plans solidified. She took the opportunity to work remotely while studying French and exploring the logistics of moving. Over time, she toured six cities, including Paris and Nice, before concluding that Bordeaux offered the perfect blend of charm—walking-friendly neighborhoods, a historic vibe, and a welcoming community.
“I yearned for a peaceful, quiet life, and now I truly understand what tranquility feels like,” she noted. The cost of living in Bordeaux is significantly lower than in Los Angeles, allowing her to rent a small one-bedroom apartment for 780 euros (about $890), compared to approximately $1,300 she used to pay in Van Nuys. Beyond housing, everyday expenses like healthcare and food are more manageable without the added burden of car payments.
Living in Chartron, a so-called “five-minute city,” means most necessities are within walking distance. Cooley navigates her new environment easily, using bikes and public transport to explore, feeling safe even during late-night outings. “I could never have done that in LA—it was frightening,” she reflected.
The renowned vineyards also add to the appeal. As a self-described “wine enthusiast,” Cooley enjoys frequent visits to local wineries for tastings.
She quickly adjusted to her new life, making friends at farmers markets and participating in Expat Social Clubs where she met a diverse array of people. Invitations to dinners and cultural gatherings became common. “I’m more active now than I ever was in LA during the past decade,” she expressed.
Cooley has felt embraced by the French culture and community. “As a black woman, I’ve felt more accepted here than I have in my 70 years in the U.S. Everything about living here has been beneficial for me—and I’m sure many others would say the same.”
When she’s not socializing or exploring, she works on a book about her experiences, titled “The Boomer of Bordeaux.” What started as a way to keep her friends and family updated on her new life has transformed into a new passion.
Looking back, Cooley reflects on her decision with gratitude. “At this stage in life, most people might say they’re tired and don’t know what to do next. But I have a list of things I want to accomplish,” she declared enthusiastically. “There’s so much I still want to explore.”
