@Gina We have very similar wants, but thanks to US<->France tax treaty it's an option for us. What you're describing sounds a lot like Montpellier.

Lots of expats, University with tech, near the beach but not on it, lots of green space. Mountains not far. International airport. Well connected train system.

@Gina Lots of youtube and being okay with 1 year somewhere while we refine our choice.

We landed in Antibes and are waiting to see if we like it post-tourist season. But mostly it's a good spot with good transportation to find something that is a better culture fit.

Old men here stare at my wife constantly and try to cat call in Chinese (wtf?) so we are comfortable using it as a trampoline to somewhere new.

@Gina I know this feeling well