“Le Puy-en-what?” This is often the response I receive when asked where I am living in France. Even many of my French friends from other regions of the country are unfamiliar with it. As I write during my return flight … Continue reading
Life in France
French Etiquette 101
When I first moved to France, many things surprised me initially. Most were pleasant — you mean I can order a 2€ coffee and sit at the same table undisturbed for hours on end? I can go grocery shopping without … Continue reading
Cost of Living in Paris vs. Other French Cities
Something that always seems to shock other Americans is when I tell them how low the cost of living in France is compared to the US. You pay HOW MUCH for internet?! I’m usually met with, when I tell people … Continue reading
A Page from 29 Days to France: Getting the Essentials Sorted
For those of us who have moved to France, we know there’s a moment that comes right after the dream becomes reality — when the plan lands, your feet finally hit French soil, and you realize… Okay, now what? It’s … Continue reading
Can I Move to France Without a Job?
With so many articles on visas, which one to choose, how to apply, how to renew, etc., we often get asked: but, can I move to France without a job? The short answer is, no, you don’t need a job … Continue reading
How to Shop at an Outdoor Market in Paris
Visiting the marché is one of my favorite weekly activities, and I especially love going with either my French husband (a professional chef) or my French mother-in-law (an incredible cook herself). They seem to know exactly where to go, who … Continue reading
The Ritual of the French Apéro
If you’ve spent an extended amount of time in France with actual French people, you know all about the ritual of the apéro — and that ritual is the best word to describe it. Consistently splitting my time between the … Continue reading
How to Spend a Day in Lyon
Only a 2-hour train ride from Paris, Lyon is a great city for exploring the southeastern side of France. With an accessible airport, well-connected train stations, and an exceptional metro, I’d argue that it is the most visitor-friendly city in … Continue reading
My First (and Possibly Last) Brocante
I’ve strolled past dozens of brocantes (antique fairs) in my decade in France, but it was only last month that I finally had a mission which took me to one as a participant, not just as a passer-by. I often … Continue reading
Living in France on a Budget
Note from the editor: Writer Susan Jordan is an American who has been living on her own in Europe since she left the US in 2012. She has lived in France since 2019 and is currently working on her 10-year … Continue reading