Some people may be a bit apprehensive about renting a holiday home in France if their French is not up to snuff. But the Dordogne has many English-speaking residents - French, Dutch, German, and English.

You should naturally try to speak some French - especially with the locals in the village - as they will appreciate it tremendously. In fact, sometimes you may start to ask a question in French and they answer you in English (which can be frustrating if you are trying to brush up your language skills).

There are so many English speaking people in the Dordogne, that there is even an English newspaper. Sud Oest publishes this edition monthly and is available in some shops and as a download.

Most shops and vineyards speak English or at least have some English-speaking employees.

So don't worry about your language skills if you are tempted by a holiday in France - a decent phrase book and a willingness to try will go a long way... but if you need it, there are plenty who also speak English.