Asking PARISIANS What They Hate the Most About FRANCE 🇫🇷

new French speaking vlog live on my channel now 🌷

Io mi tengo Parigi 🤍

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I have two type of friends.

Those that I have been expat.

And those that haven’t.

How do I recognize them?

Message on my phone

The first category will message me on WhatsApp, WeChat (if still in China), Facebook messanger, Instagram DM or any voice-over-IP app, but never ever on phone message because they know that they are not sure where in the world you might be and how much it could cost you to receive a SMS or god forbid a MMS.

The second category… I’m trying to educate them because I always think it’s a serious (business?) matter when I see the little red dot next to the SMS message.

March in Paris

Perrotin - Susumu Kamijo

Musée National Picasso - Faith Ringgold

Paris is but a dream.

It’s been 8 years since I was wandering through the streets of Paris, wide-eyed, awestruck that I’d made it. I sat up along the wall of Pont Neuf, my feet resting on the stone seat below as I traced the declaration of love that had been etched into it. It was yet another point in time that I caught myself saying, just remember this moment, because one day, this will feel like a dream.

Mornings in Paris were whimsical, although I have to admit, I experienced way fewer of them than I should’ve. It’s a real diabolical challenge getting me out of bed at the best of times, and that was true even in the most gorgeous city in the world. I could, however, occasionally be coaxed out of bed in the early hours of the morning by the very thing that was causing my downfall (aka undiagnosed coeliac disease): two freshly made pain au chocolat from the local bakery. I’d slip on my jeans and some ballet flats in between yawns, and as I made my way out of my apartment resisting the serious urge to go back to bed... it would take just one look down the street to know that this was not a moment to be missed. The sun would peak over the city in splashes of gold, the leaves in the grand parks gently whispering as they awaited the day’s visitors. If that wasn’t enough, then all it should take was a whiff from the local bakery. Nothing, and I mean nothing beats freshly made Parisian pastries (I’ve already cleaned my teeth for the evening, but I can seriously feel my mouth watering at the thought). The city was a stage that I had for myself, and it was in these glorious, wonder-filled moments that I told myself that I should do this every day. Of course, I didn’t (mornings were a diabolical challenge, remember?). I remember shifting the Stabilise gravel in the Tuileries with my feet early one morning and it being the only sound against the trickles of the fountain, broken up by bites of flaky pastry. The sunshine tried its best to gently lift up my heavy, sleepy eyes. I was tired. But I had that same voice in my head. Take it all in, because one day, this will feel like a dream.

So, was it? Because I sort of, in a way, feel like it never happened. Mornings now, well... they look a little bit less glamorous. I’ve swapped out jeans with ballet flats, a Louis Vuitton handbag, and strolls down cobblestoned streets with flecks of pastry around my mouth from those decadent chocolate croissants for a 5:30am alarm, medical scrubs, hastily made coffee, and gluten-free cereal and yoghurt thrown into a red Tupperware container. I love and loathe red traffic lights on my commute into the hospital. Love because I have a few moments to woof down a few scoops of my cereal (if I waited for a break, it would either turn soggy, or I wouldn’t get to eat it at all). Loathe because I’m often running late. The buildings have a grungy feel to them, a character of sorts, but couldn’t be further from Haussmann’s uniformed visions. I miss getting lost in the architecture and history on the way to my destination. Miss wondering what happened here.

No more boulevards, daily specials scribbled on chalkboards, charming mouldings on the ceiling, or chandeliers in waiting rooms. No more stopping to take photos to remind myself of this moment later, in case I forgot. Life at the moment is instead played out in front of a series of rotating walls—those of the emergency department, my office at home, or the university library. In two and a half years, I will (terrifyingly) officially be a doctor.  I furiously scribble down every offhand comment casually made by the registrar or consultant that bridges a gap in my knowledge (of which there are many). Often it’s in totally illegible handwriting that not even I can read (and I wrote the note!) so not only am I contributing to the stereotype, I’m also not even doing something useful with it. I only apply makeup to my eyes now, because my days are spent in N95 masks, although, this has its perks. Admittedly, only needing to do makeup for the top part of my face has saved me a lot of time, and money that would’ve been otherwise spent at MECCA (the Australian equivalent of Sephora, aka my happy place). I couldn’t stay in Paris being an au pair forever, but life now couldn’t feel further from what it used to be.

I won’t lie... my life in Paris feels like it was a dream. All those years ago, I was, let’s face it, totally clueless about what I wanted to do in life. I’d bled my bank account dry (but in Paris! How artsy!), was soul-crushingly heartbroken over the guy who I thought was going to be the great love of my life (but in Paris! How twisted and romantic!), and was living in a shoebox apartment sleeping on a foldout bed (but who cares, it’s in Paris!). No matter what was thrown my way, it didn’t matter because, it could always be justified by but I’m living in Paris! I adored the family I was an au pair for, had wonderful friends that I could count on at any time of day or night, and it was all set in the backdrop of dreams. Now, I’m a broke full-time med student still bruised from a recent devastating breakup. But none of it is in Paris. Same sh**, different city, hey? At least the bed situation has improved (I’m writing this nestled under my blankets). I guess this time I have the extra wildcard of an ongoing pandemic. No wonder Paris feels like it was a dream. It was gloriously, wildly carefree.

I love medicine, and I love how enriching it is and how there is always more to learn, and how I’m doing something to give back to my community. I know I’ll feel fulfilled, no matter the city or the stage. But some days as I’m driving into the hospital, I find myself wondering what’ll happen if I just turn right instead of left, and follow the exit signs towards the airport. I’d jump on a plane or into a time machine and go back to my old life in Paris... maybe it was all just a dream.

Our Life in Paris: 5 Years Abroad

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Speaking of Gloss goal letter O, openness to friendships...

I went to Paris last weekend with girl from Tandem (where we language exchange for an hour). I thought I would be comfortable, but I just wasn't. And I felt a bit rushed even after saying that I was in no hurry. I will be in France for a lot of my life! There's more too, but mainly, it's just always the same story with most girls I meet.

Anyway, I was shocked to see the height of the Eiffel Tower for the first time. I didn't think I would tear up, but I've been avoiding seeing her for so long... So I decided not to go see any more until I was ready. I think it will be toward my birthday, and the end of my first séjour en France. I enjoyed Paris, but the boulangeries want to take me over! I ate too much sugar there without a doubt!

There is one girl I've gotten on with really well. She sort of affirms the trend I've noticed with my friends. I'm learning to accept that just because I may not have a certain type of friend, doesn't mean I don't have friends at all! I accept that I get along well with certain people, but I think I should start looking into the why behind that.

Are #Wars of Religion as Dangerous as Secularization? By Émile Perreau-Saussine via @ChurchLifeND https://buff.ly/3x0YZOU https://ift.tt/9ZIuQcF

new vlog on my Youtube channel xx

5 Things I LOVE and HATE about Living in France 🇫🇷 (watch before you com...

One of these travel destinations has to go. Which one would you choose?

Paris

Santorini

Maldives

Tokyo

Planning a family trip to Paris – Everything you need to know

Although the city of lights - Paris is often associated with adults and teenagers, there are plenty of kid-friendly things to enjoy there. From iconic landmarks to charming neighborhoods, There are chances for lifelong family memories and family vacations across the French capital, regardless of the age of your children.

Here are some amazing suggestions for the best Paris tours with family:

1.         Embrace the local life

Instead of just being tourists, immerse yourselves in the local way of life. Indulge in the gastronomic wonders of Parisian cuisine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Choose to dine at quaint bistros or explore the unique culinary experiences offered at places like La Recyclerie, where the whole family can enjoy Parisian delights. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, observe the locals, and create cherished memories that capture the essence of Parisian living.

2.         Search for family-friendly exhibits

When planning visits to museums and cultural landmarks, consider the interests of your little ones. While art museums may seem daunting, many institutions offer engaging activities tailored to children. For instance, The Louvre provides online resources designed to captivate young minds, such as interactive games and virtual tours. Additionally, keep an eye out for special exhibitions specifically curated for families, featuring interactive displays and hands-on activities. Research in advance to identify family-friendly events and exhibits that align with your preferences, ensuring an enriching experience for everyone.

3.         Take a day trip away from the city

Although it's a wonderful city, children may find Paris to be a little too busy and overwhelming at times. Adults are accustomed to the bustle of the city, after all, but in childhood, everything appears much louder and busier than it is. With so much to see and do, the more sedate towns outside of Paris are excellent places to take children.

A guaranteed hit with the kids is a day trip from Paris. Although you can explore on your own, seeing this amazing palace is made so much easier by joining a guided walking tour. Children are able to marvel at the King's Grand Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors, but one of the most well-liked areas of Versailles is the Trianon Estate, which is Marie Antoinette's farm. In addition to serving as the queen's personal hideaway and a school for the royal children, this operational farm is now home to a number of amiable, well-known farm animals that youngsters genuinely love visiting. There are numerous ways to get to and from Versailles, which is located just outside of Paris.

Disneyland Paris, which is just 30 kilometers from Paris, is one more alternative for a day trip. Unlike the vast Walt Disney World resort in Florida, Disneyland Paris is the most visited theme park in Europe and can easily completed in a single day. It is a haven for families with small children, just like all Disney parks, and as it has its own airport transportation, it might be a great way to end a holiday to Paris.

4.         Skip the crowd by exploring lesser-known attractions

Many of Paris's attractions are merely that—attractions. Little children find it difficult to wait in line, so you might want to consider taking in the sights from different vantage points. In this manner, you may visit the attractions and take fantastic photos while doing something different and less busy. For instance, the Sacre-Coeur Basilica in Montmartre's dome provides a sweeping view of the entire city, and the Montparnasse Tower provides the best views of the Eiffel Tower.

When planning a family trip to Paris, it is advisable to hire a guide that specializes in kid-friendly tours, to ensure you are making the most of the city!

5.         Take advantage of FREE days

When traveling with children, things can get unpredictable, and if you're paying full price for attraction admission, this can get costly. Thankfully, there are free days in Paris for several of the well-known institutions. On Friday evenings, the Louvre, for example, grants free admission to everyone under 25 years of age.

In addition, every day of the week, free entrance is provided by numerous museums for families with children. In addition, Paris offers various additional kinds of free attractions, such as the following: the Sacre-Coeur flower market in Paris, etc.

6.         Shop at a local market

Little children may find it difficult to adjust to a new food, and no one enjoys a restaurant tantrum due to an unfulfilled preference. Furthermore, the cost of eating out every meal can quickly mount up. If your accommodations provide a kitchenette, Paris offers numerous markets that can greatly simplify the process of preparing meals. Young children can participate as well by helping to choose fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables to sample.

The market at Rue Mouffetard is one of the greatest and biggest of the many street markets that can be found on Paris's market streets. More than 200 varieties of cheese are among the many items that are available there. Keep your hands around your children, since the markets can get very busy! Because of how enjoyable and welcoming the shopping environment is, these markets may also be a terrific place to introduce your children to new foods.

Conclusion

Looking for expert assistance to make your family trip to Paris unforgettable? Contact The Expat Tours, a leading tour operator in the city. We specialize in private, small group customized tours, ensuring a personalized and immersive travel experience for every adventurer. From tailor-made itineraries to unforgettable day tours, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and helping you create lasting memories in the City of Light.

Disclaimer- The information provided in this content is just for educational purposes and is written by a professional writer. Consult us to know more about the family-friendly travel attractions in Paris.

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24 years ago yesterday we got married and a few days later we were leaving on our first expat posting in Buenos Aires, for what was supposed to be a +/- 24-month experience 😉

We are now celebrating our wedding anniversary and in a few days we will be moving back, as empty nester and coincidentally in the same neighborhood we lived when we left France.

#WeComeFullCircle

“Though it would last for only two years, the Metro became a gravitational force field for American journalists in Paris.”