Tag: life in france

French Favorites: Diptyque Carrousel

French Favorites: Diptyque Carrousel

Updated with 2019 carrousel info! Since 2016, the chic Parisian candle and fragrance brand Diptyque has released a unique holiday candle carrousel each year — and I am lucky to have all three.

My Favorite Paris Café Terraces for Wine au Soleil

My Favorite Paris Café Terraces for Wine au Soleil

Wine and long conversation en terrasse is a time-honored pastime in France, but is especially cherished when the grey winter gives way to sunshine. Here are my top picks in Paris!

9 Tips for Finding Work in English While Living in France

9 Tips for Finding Work in English While Living in France

With the world increasingly globalized, more companies in France are opening up to people without excellent French language skills. Some multi-national companies work primarily in English in order to compete, while certain industries cater specifically to Anglophones.

Happy 1st Birthday to ‘Am I French Yet?’

Happy 1st Birthday to ‘Am I French Yet?’

August 1st marks one year since I launched this blog and put “Am I French Yet?” out into the world. I had hoped more people than just my friends would read it, but had no idea if the stories and information I wanted to share…

How to Get Your Securité Sociale & Carte Vitale in France

How to Get Your Securité Sociale & Carte Vitale in France

Once you’ve lived in France for three months and established residency, you’re eligible for French national health coverage — Woohoo! But to reap all the benefits, you’ll first need a numero de securité sociale and a carte Vitale.

Escape from Paris: Le Touquet

Escape from Paris: Le Touquet

Sometimes you just need to get out of the city, even a beautiful one like Paris. We were looking for a place with sun, great food, charm and a less than 3 hour drive: Bonjour Le Touquet!

Attending the French Open: BYOBaguette and Mind Your Manners

Attending the French Open: BYOBaguette and Mind Your Manners

Went to my first French Open this week (or Roland Garros to those in France) along with bunch of sober, well-behaved French people eating food they brought from home. Quite a sporting event culture shock for this American.

French Etiquette: Silent Communication Using Silverware

French Etiquette: Silent Communication Using Silverware

When eating at a fine restaurant in France, there is a silent code diners use with forks and knives to talk to waiters. A sort of sign language via le couteau and la fourchette.

The American Guide to French Weddings

The American Guide to French Weddings

You’re invited to a French mariage in a castle. Awesome! Before you go, there are a few key differences between American and French weddings to learn. Know what to expect so you can be a good guest.

Why Do French People Respond in English When I Speak French?

Why Do French People Respond in English When I Speak French?

It’s a frustrating, but common occurrence for expats in France — You ask a question in French and the response comes in English. You try again in French. Still English. But don’t freak out, French people (most likely) aren’t doing this because they’re rude or…