In France, having a car is often not a necessity. Driving is not typically a part of daily life, except for in the most rural regions. This was quite the opposite of my experience of growing up in Texas, where … Continue reading
How to Find a Certified French Translator
My search for a certified French translator began when I decided to trade in my American driver’s license for a French permit. I am still in the middle of that process, thanks to a few mistakes I made in the … Continue reading
Living in France as a Retiree: Part 3: Taxes and Succession
Don’t miss Part 1 and Part 2 of this series on Living in France as a Retiree France has rather rigid laws, especially when it comes to taxation and succession. They are also quite unclear. Disclaimer: I am not an … Continue reading
Applying for a Temporary Work Visa, TAPIF Edition
I am approaching the end of my second year teaching English in France as a language assistant through TAPIF, the Teaching Assistant Program in France. You can learn more about the program or read my demystifying reflections on teaching in … Continue reading
Living in France as a Retiree: Part 2: Health Insurance, Medical Care, and Nursing Homes
Don’t miss Part 1 of this series on Living in France as a Retiree Health Insurance When you first apply for your long-stay visa for your first year in France, you are required to prove that you have health insurance. … Continue reading
Finding an Apartment in Paris; It’s Not Them, It’s You. Tips to Secure Your Dream Digs
You’ve dreamt about this day for way too long. You’ve resent your application via La Poste (twice), you’ve signed the textbook-thick lease, and you’ve finally been given the keys to your dream Parisian home. You walk up the 5 (read … Continue reading
Living in France as a Retiree: Part 1: Participating in Daily Life in France
In two previous TAIP posts (here and here), I explained all the steps needed to start a life in France as a retiree. In the next three posts, I will explain what you need to take into consideration… very carefully. … Continue reading
True or False: Teaching English in France
When I first learned of TAPIF, the Teaching Assistant Program in France, it was the fall of 2023. I had been on the hunt for a way to work in France for a few months by that time and meeting … Continue reading
On Living Two Lives
I’ve heard of people going back home after living abroad for a while and feeling self-conscious, out of place. As if they can no longer relate to the people from their hometown. It’s isolating, I imagine, to feel disconnected from … Continue reading
How I Keep My American Phone Number While Living in France
My first year of living abroad in France, I was quick to get a French phone number. Not only is it necessary for banking and other local services, but French phone plans are very reasonably priced. However, instead of ditching … Continue reading