If you are thinking of collecting art, much thought should go into your choices before purchasing. First, you need to know what you like, what moves you. Visit galleries, go to art exhibitions and fairs. Discuss art with friends; define … Continue reading
When the Police Seize Your Bicycle
It was a great evening, an invitation to the opening night of the Fine Arts Biennale at the Grand Palais Ephemère. The works for sale were museum-grade (with prices to go with them!) and champagne was being served to one … Continue reading
How to Apply for French Citizenship, Part I: Documents
I suppose ever since I began this blog in 2013, this article was in the works. But in my early days of life in France, I always thought I would apply for citizenship on the very day I became eligible. … Continue reading
Mailbag: No, You Can’t Do That
It’s hard to believe it’s been almost two years since our last mailbag, a series in which I answer questions that don’t necessarily make sense as an article, but provide useful information. Funnily enough, the last mailbag also had a … Continue reading
Paris Neighborhood Guide: the 6th Arrondissement
The 6th arrondissement, or as I like to call it, quintessential Paris-ville, is one of the most central neighborhoods in the city. It’s also one of the oldest — the Left Bank of the Seine has been inhabited since ancient … Continue reading
One Last Step Before Applying for Citizenship
I’ve been following forums and Facebook groups more closely in the last few years, knowing I was going to be applying for citizenship soon. There are some areas of the country that have notorious reputations for that process. Montpellier, for … Continue reading
Contemporary Art in Paris: Galleries
The association of art and Paris is well deserved. Beyond its exceptional art museums, Paris is teeming with a plethora of galleries. Any type of art can be seen in Paris’ galleries, from ancient Greek statues through renaissance works to … Continue reading
Paris Neighborhood Guide: the 16th Arrondissement
If you’re new here, the French capital comprises 20 “arrondissements,” a fancy French word for neighborhoods. They begin with the 1st arrondissement in the city’s center, and the others spiral out, resulting in what looks like a snail’s shell. It’s … Continue reading
My Journey to France Part 2
In case you missed Part 1, I’m sharing my unique journey from I’ll-never-live-abroad to nearly-10-years-in-France-and-counting. I’m often asked how I did it — and while several of my articles on TAIP touch on how I’ve been able to stay, I … Continue reading
My Journey to France, Part 1
I’ve lived in France on and off since 2014. I’m often asked, “How did you do it?” The short answer is a lot of determination and a refusal to take non as an answer. But, I know a lot of … Continue reading