Paris

[NY25]

Anyone here now or ever live/work in Paris? Comments, thoughts?

[ricklyk1]

I grew up in Paris. That is, Paris, Kentucky; not Paris, France.

Growing up, my family traveled a lot. Invariably on every trip someone would ask me where I was from. Of course I just said Paris to which the asker always responded "Paris, France?" Keep in my I'm a red-headed country girl with a southern accent. At this point my mom usually hustled me away as quick as possible before my smart mouth embarrassed the rest of my family.

So really, I'm no help to you at all, lol!

[NY25]

Haha - I should have been specific - yes, Paris, France! (I'm a mouthy red-head, too!)

[expatter]

I'm currently living in Germany, but have lived in many European cities. I think the answer to your question depends upon what kind of a person you are -- do you like to travel? comfortable with change? open to learning a new language (assuming you don't speak French)?

Would you be coming on your own or as a trailing spouse? If the latter, are you okay fending for yourself while your partner works? That often becomes an issue if you've been used to working/having independence and are suddenly dependent.

Do you have your visa arranged or, if moving with a company, do they have a relocation service? With the EU, visas for Americans aren't as easy to come by as they once were given the unemployment rates here.

As for Paris itself, I absolutely love it! Have you visited before? Where some people see charm and history, others find in dirty and overpriced.

[Ann Marie]

I have never lived in Paris. Went on vacation there, beautiful old city. I brought my rollerblades, and went all over the city.
If an opportunity to go, and work there, I say take it! Cultural heaven, close enough to get to many other European cities. Good luck!

[tralaiven]

If I had the opportunity, I would go to Paris in a minute. I love Europe et je parle français aussi (mais juste un peu). C'est une ville merveilleuse.

Le monde est votre pomme! Mangez-le!

[NY25]

Tralaiven - j'adore votre reponse!! Oui. Je parle un peu de francais. This opportunity may arise through work. I've been to Paris several times and love, love it. I guess it all depends on what the offer looks like. Exciting and scary - we'll see!