Expat life — a fascinating shock or a shocking fascination? A survival guide.
A word ‘expatriate’ is no longer something new to most of the modern cities. But what does it take to be an expat, and in particular — in French capital? Is it mostly about eating croissants in the mornings and enjoying a good wine in the evenings while doing your job in between, or is there anything specific that most people should know about before embarking on a trip?
This question was asked on the website of one of the most active expatriate communities in Paris called InterNations. After having received roughly 1000 answers, from former and actual expats, I came to conclusion that, apart many technical issues like dealing with your residence/work permit, finding a quick way to get to a doctor and paying huge taxes at the end of the year, there is one major challenge to overcome — loneliness. Surprised? So would I be, if I weren’t an expat myself. This loneliness has several preconditions, and overcoming them simply means to start enjoying this beautiful place.
«One of the first things that I realized once having moved to Paris is that you have to smile a lot, make many excuses about everything and understand what it’s all about, » — says Leo Alcala, 31, from Mexico, living and working in Paris for 4 years. «Another thing that kept me feeling lost is the fact that French people are sarcastic, and I mean — really. This can be perceived as a rude thing, but then you understand it’s a part of their culture, a sort of a sophisticated humour and a sign of a sharp mind, and you start feeling comfortable and finally appreciate it.»
Indeed, French humour and manners of expression can appear not obvious for a foreigner, especially the one coming from a totally different culture. And this is where you have a great chance to train your adaptability skills and openness. Because in most of the cases, people mean no harm — actually, it’s the opposite — and just act as they have been used to do since their childhood. And, by the way, the fact they don’t change in interaction with you rather means they have accepted you as a part of their society.
«It can be lonely sometimes — be prepared for it — when you first move,» — says Amy Hughes from UK, 42, 2 years in Paris. «Expats are usually a very friendly bunch and understand what it’s like to be on your own in a new culture, so some of them will try to help! But I would say — especially try to avoid sticking to such societies for all your leisure time, because in that case you will be an outsider forever.»
What are the alternatives then? Says Keith Jansen from Australia, 55, 8 years in Paris: «There is one particular thing — or rather activity — that helps tremendously and I appreciated it right away. It is local markets that you can find everywhere in the city. Not only that they deliver you the freshest and nicest products possible, but also it is a great opportunity to practice your language, feel the nuances of the culture and humour — feel the spirit, if you want. And people are so friendly; it is a real pleasure that I never miss!»
So, alone or not — that mostly depends on you; but what the majority of the expatriates say — regardless of your company, just try to enjoy the party, because, being in the heart of one of the most romantic countries on this planet, it is certainly worth it!