SOUTH WEST FRANCE: PAULINE
Things started to look up for Dubliner, Pauline Armstrong last week, as her search continued in the South West of France. Last week her daughter Michelle joined her in her search for her new home. This week's first property is a small apartment near the sea in Barcares.

Pauline plans to retire in the South of France, and finds this apartment too small for someone to live in all year round. Pauline's mind has been set on a village or town by the sea, of which there are plenty in the area. So, her final visit, to a top floor apartment in Canet sur Mer looks very promising.

The final apartment she looks at just might have it all for Pauline. It's got 2 bedrooms. It's on the top floor, with a lift. It's got a huge balcony and it's only ¤95,000. And without too much deliberation Pauline decides to make her offer and once she offers the asking price the apartment is hers. So great news for Pauline, who expects to be in her new home later in the new year.

Perpignan, the capitol of Rousillon is located near the Mediterranean Sea and Spanish border in South West France and has a Spanish influence. It is a good base for exploring the Pyrennees to the south or just enjoying the Mediterranean to the west. With miles of sun-drenched coastline, it's hardly surprising that the population explodes during the summer months. It is a pleasant city with a lively street life. The heart of the town is pedestrianised and dominated by cafes, brasseries and lots of good places to eat and drink. Pauline viewed 6 properties with the help of Suzanne and Karen O'Reilly, two sisters from Limerick, who now run their own property agency in Perpignan. Their contact details are: www.bidsinfrance.com.