Life in France for many is about variety and maintaining a balance. Work-life balance is something the French have turned into a fine art and, as David added, there is more to renting out property than simply being an income stream.
"We find that a lot of the people who rent our properties come back year after year and many become friends so it has other benefits as well as being a source of income. We put everything into trying to integrate into the community. That is crucial for anyone moving to a new country, a new culture. Football obviously helped but it was only one part of settling in."
David only recently called time on his playing career in France, hanging up his boots on medical advice as the ravages of playing the game for four decades took its toll. But, he still plays the occasional game.
The whole family have really embraced life in France. David, the couple`s son, works as an ambulance driver; Sophie works in Import and Export in Bordeaux; and Alex is at 6th Form College.
David and Jackie are united in their evaluation of that life changing decision made 13 years ago. They say they have absolutely no regrets.
"Moving here to France is the best decision we have ever made. The children love it and we love it. The people are so generous, in every respect. Life has been, and is, wonderful. C`est magnifique.
SEE TOP TIPS FOR MARKETING HOLIDAY LETS - page 104
Living the dream, Hautefort Dordogne, one of several of the beautiful villages in the area.