The only time I ever get up willingly before 4 a.m. is for an early morning flight, but on Friday,…
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The living abroad experience is not one size fits all
There’s this theme I’ve seen among my own readers and elsewhere in this niche. It’s that life abroad is a…
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My favorite French eating habit
You don’t have to go to France to know that the French take mealtime seriously. From seeking out quality ingredients…
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Let’s talk about electric tea kettles
Then I moved to France and was introduced to la bouilloire and oh, how I love it. Is the electric tea kettle the best kitchen invention ever? I’d argue oui. Let’s talk about electric tea kettles in France and all the electric kettle uses.
My latest over on YouTube
How’s it going? I’m popping in today to say a quick hello and to share my latest French culture videos on YouTube with you. My YouTube channel is all about everyday French life and beyond and I cover French language tutorials, travel, and what it’s like as a foreigner in France (not Paris!).
How to find a job in France and why it’s not impossible
Maybe you’ve considered living or working abroad and you’re looking to make a change for yourself. Curious about how to find a job in France (or elsewhere?)? It’s not impossible, but you have to put in the work.
The hardest parts of living abroad in France
It’s easy to find a million reasons why you should move abroad to France. But once you’re here, is life perfect? Of course not! Let’s talk about the hardest parts of living abroad in France.
Do you tip in France? Must-know facts about tipping in France (don’t do it!)
Any American living in France will notice that tipping in France is different than what they’re used to. Do you tip in France and for what services and how much do you tip in France? The entire culture is different so of course that applies to tipping in France as well. Let’s take a closer look at France tipping culture.
The problem with fantasy worlds
A quote at the end of an article I read from a lifestyle brand that’s been a raging success, got me thinking. The article itself was super interesting and positive, and for some reason, the quote at the end left me feeling weird. And I didn’t know why. So to figure it out, I did what I often do when I feel that way. I walked the dog. Here’s the problem with fantasy worlds.
When living abroad forces you to reinvent yourself
What has shaped your identity and made you into the person you are? Maybe things like where you grew up, your career path, your role in your community, and the people in your inner circle. Identity is complicated. Living abroad complicates it further, but it’s not all bad.
Why does France allow us to slow down and appreciate life more?
One of my readers left a comment that got me thinking. Julie wrote, “What is it about France that allows us to slow down and really appreciate the smaller things in life? I find I get excited about things that I wouldn’t even give a second thought to at home and I find myself doing things I wouldn’t think possible.” Why does France allow us to slow down and appreciate the small things? Or does it? Will a move abroad make you enjoy life more? Should it?
Why I’m doing Facebook Live in France
You may have noticed I started doing Facebook Live broadcasts not too long ago. The response has been fantastic and I couldn’t be happier with the feedback I’ve received. Let’s talk about this Facebook Live in France thing and why I decided to try it out.
French market day shopping essentials (FB Live replay)
A morning walking around a French marché is time well spent. Whether you’re in a big city or a small…
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French workplace greetings: Bise, handshake, other?
Tom’s here to tell us about French workplace greetings and how they might differ from what you’re used to in the office at home. Or maybe not. Let’s get to it…
Respecting the culture and doing the right thing
Most of the time, respecting the culture and doing the right thing are one and the same. Other times, it’s not so clear. As a foreigner, it’s hard to always know if you’re doing the right thing and if the way you’ve lived you life up until now counts in the same way it did back home.
What’s surprised me the most about my life in France?
Living abroad is full of surprises big and small. Let’s talk about some of these living in France surprises including culture, food, and stereotypes.
Do you feel French?
“Do you feel French?” someone asked me recently. I had to think about it. The question of feeling French is a complicated one and makes us think about our identity as foreigners living abroad. What makes someone feel French and how long does it take for this to change? Let’s take a closer look.
Little ways to make the holiday season merry for loved ones far away
The holidays can be a challenging time for those of us who are no longer “home” and have new traditions and places to embrace. How can you reconnect with loved ones far away? I have a few simple tips.
Having a pet in France Part 2: Adopting from a shelter
If you’re considering a move to France and want to add a pet to you family, read on for one woman’s story on adopting a pet in France.
A day out at the Zoo de la Flèche
Welcoming over 400,000 visitors each year, the Zoo de la Flèche not far from Angers, France, is well worth the trip for both kids and adults.