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France; what's it like to live there?

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Last week I opened up the possibility of a transfer to France by telling the VP of my facility that I was willing/interested in temporarily transferring there. It is estimated that the transfer would last about 3 years. The facility is located in suburban Paris. Anyone ever lived in and around Paris? Any tips to someone that might be moving there? I currently live in Chicago so am used to large cities. Also, have previously travelled internationally. Am pushing to go on a business trip to the facility to get an on site impression. Have been on phone conferences with the French team I wish to transfer to and am taking French lessons through work. Is there anything else I should do to help myself out?

Travel Tips

Sounds like you're on the right track. Even if the people at your Paris division can speak English to you, learning French will open a lot of doors.

If you are bringing a family (or just a spouse) it would be good to read some trailing spouse reports about France. The location would be great, because there are lots of 'trailing spouses' nearer to the urban areas.

If you have any pets, investigate what papers/immunizations you will need to have and set up a timeline. Don't forget to check what the US will require to allow your pet back into the country, and it's a good idea to keep the pet 'ready to go' because if something compels an untimely departure from France (family circumstances, company decisions) it is tortuous to have to leave a pet behind and expensive to pay for kenneling while the pet is prepared for repatriation.

It's also a good idea to visit the facility. When you do - observe carefully the dress code (or even what most people are wearing.) These things can be very different and if you don't 'blend' well, it can create needless problems (like lack of respect, poor performance evals, etc.)

There is a big difference between what most Americans consider a good work ethic and what most French (or any other nationality, really) consider a good work ethic. Prepare yourself for these cultural differences. Adhering to an American work ethic or attitude while working with French people will not inspire admiration or appreciation, it will likely foster animosity.

I don't know you or your situation, so these points might not have any relevance to you or your situation. But if I were preparing someone for the move, these are some of the things I would tell them.

Lastly, bring your own chocolate chips.

HTH Source(s): I'm an American who lives in France (exoticmundane.blogspot.com)
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