The reality behind the dream: What YouTube and TV shows don’t tell you about renovating in France

In this episode of French Reno Diaries UNCENSORED, Rosie, Michaela and Sue pull back the curtain on reality TV renovation shows and glossy YouTube channels - and compare them with what actually happens on real renovation projects in France.

TV shows mentioned:

• Escape to the Chateau (now known as Chateau DIY)
• A Place in the Sun
• New Life in the Sun

The episode also references several renovation-focused YouTube channels:

• Chateau de Purnon
• How to Renovate a Chateau
• Oh No Another Chateau

Helpful resources mentioned:

• Service Public – Official French government information
• FrenchEntrée – English-language resource for living and renovating in France
• Leroy Merlin & Brico Depot – In-store advice, materials and specification sheets
• Local mairie offices and professional artisans for accurate guidance
• Facebook groups (use with caution — advice is often mixed!)

Listener comments: Thanks to Anna, Helen and Claire from our Facebook community for sharing their experiences and insights - we loved reading your comments and comparing them to what we see on TV renovation shows.

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Email: frenchrenodiaries@gmail.com

Find out more about us and our French reno businesses:

Maison Bretagne (Rosie Ellis)

S.R. Charpenterie (Sue Peake-Russell)

Paul Wilkins Electricien (Micala Wilkins)

Credits:

• Produced & mixed by: Katy Wright
• Music: Grand Project