I think I already commented on a note, but welcome to Paris! There is quite a lively Anglophone literary community here, as well of course as a huge French literary scene. The European Writers Salon https://www.saloneurope.org/ organise things in Paris quite often, and there are many other smaller groups and networks. Let me know if you'd like to meet for a coffee sometime -- I live and work in the 5th. I'm British but with dual citizenship via marriage and we moved from London to Paris four years ago.
I remember! I'd love to meet up for coffee, Victoria! And thank you recommending European Writers Salon. It looks like a great community. Their November event in Paris is booked, but I signed up for the wait list. Maybe I'll get lucky. I'll have to hold off on the French literary scene for now, as my French is dismal at best. I'm working on it, but I should've started months ago. Little-known fact about me: I lived in the UK for a few years in my 20s. Up north.
What you said about there is a difference between ordering dinner in Paris and buying groceries in Versailles, reminded me of my first trip to Puerto Rico. I was told that everyone knows English but when I got there and left the hotel zone, I found it not to be true. But it motivated me to learn Spanish. Eventually it led me to meeting the woman who is now my wife, while visiting Costa Rica with my brother.
…There is a Substack site called Expats Planet that you might find helpful. Or at least entertaining.
Here’s some advice for going to buy coffee where you are:
“Ordering coffee in France is not a transaction. It’s foreplay.”
I think I already commented on a note, but welcome to Paris! There is quite a lively Anglophone literary community here, as well of course as a huge French literary scene. The European Writers Salon https://www.saloneurope.org/ organise things in Paris quite often, and there are many other smaller groups and networks. Let me know if you'd like to meet for a coffee sometime -- I live and work in the 5th. I'm British but with dual citizenship via marriage and we moved from London to Paris four years ago.
I remember! I'd love to meet up for coffee, Victoria! And thank you recommending European Writers Salon. It looks like a great community. Their November event in Paris is booked, but I signed up for the wait list. Maybe I'll get lucky. I'll have to hold off on the French literary scene for now, as my French is dismal at best. I'm working on it, but I should've started months ago. Little-known fact about me: I lived in the UK for a few years in my 20s. Up north.
Great. I’m usually fairly flexible within school hours as I work for myself. Just let me know what might work.
What you said about there is a difference between ordering dinner in Paris and buying groceries in Versailles, reminded me of my first trip to Puerto Rico. I was told that everyone knows English but when I got there and left the hotel zone, I found it not to be true. But it motivated me to learn Spanish. Eventually it led me to meeting the woman who is now my wife, while visiting Costa Rica with my brother.
…There is a Substack site called Expats Planet that you might find helpful. Or at least entertaining.
Here’s some advice for going to buy coffee where you are:
“Ordering coffee in France is not a transaction. It’s foreplay.”
Well, ain’t this a charming anecdote. Pushing beyond one’s comfort zone is always the move. I’ll check that Substack out too. Thanks, Steve!
We’ll be waiting for you reporting of your experiences ordering a cup of Joe from there. Details.
Ha! already have a couple of ideas rattling around in the old noggin’
We’re excited for you both and the new adventures to come! I’m curious to read and learn about y’alls experiences abroad. Big hugs!
Thanks, Daisy! Hope to see y'all sooner rather than later!
Pablo in Paris! Congratulations! I'm looking forward to this one.
Temper your expectations. Hehe. This one's more of an update than anything.