Merci, Monsieur...

INTRODUCTION:

Bienvenue a Paris!!

Paris, France 2004:

I have lived in Paris for four years, and continue to be amazed by its elegance, beauty and charm.

Paris always smells to me of fresh flowers, baking bread, strong cheeses, and sometimes rain. My personal odyssey to move to this most enchanting and spectacular city began in 2000, following a dream I had had for 20 years. It has been a time filled with wonder, excitement, learning, and some frustrations along the way. However, I would not trade this experience for anything, and it has been the best decision of my life… so far. 

I had visited France many times in the years I was in the public relations business in both Houston and Miami and even had some French clients. Being the Francophile that I am, (knowing the language and appreciating the French style of life), I came to realize many times with much laughter at myself- “This ISN T the US of A” and the French do many rudimentary things much differently than you and I. Moving and living here, I came to find, is not like visiting.

But, that said, it is a wonderful place to retire to, work in part-time or just LIVE.

Moving is always a traumatic experience but if you decide to live a European lifestyle, you can have much pleasure, joy, and wonderful memories no matter how long you stay.

Everything included in this book is my first hand experience over the last four years. These experiences may help you avoid the “foibles and pitfalls” of moving and settling in a new country.

I have listed website addresses along with phone numbers and other pertinent information that should come in handy before, during and after your move. I hope you find this how-to book informative and entertaining, should you decide to take that “leap of faith”, and move to France.

Bon courage, Good Luck, and see you in the CITY OF LIGHTS!