Life’s Uncommon Journey
An American woman’s exploration of international travel, culture, food, and all things random. Let’s Go! Search for a post for faster results.
Making uncommon things common.
Explore with me.
Counting Steps; Never Counting Cities
LA VIE: Just a quick random note (thinking aloud)… I often observe that when visiting cities, it is so important to walk as much as possible to see the sites and sounds of the city. I like to count the number of steps I take - not the locations I visit.
Staycation: Experiencing Paris
LA VIE: The world knows Paris is the “City of Light” and has a lot to offer. As an American Expat living in France for the over nine months, I feel there’s a lot to discover about France without giving into the “tourist mindset.”
French Vocabulary List #2
LA VIE: I have started traveling quite a bit in Europe; especially central and southern France. This week’s list is comprised of travel words related to my upcoming travels to Austria, city of Versailles, and the city of Nice, France.
Parisian Sundays: Le Bruit Blanc de la Ville
LA VIE: With so many stores closed on Sundays, I rearrange my plans as needed. I am one of the few people who enjoys a lot of variety so I’ll continue exploring Paris and adjust my expectations… Bonne weekend!
Paris Coffee Cafes - American Vibe - List 1
LES CAFÉS: International travel has many rewards which includes experiencing new tastes and flavors. From time-to-time, I simply want something “familiar” without having to go to a chain restaurant or an American exported brand.
Expat Diary: French vs. American Lifestyles
LE MODE DE VIE AMÉRICAIN. At the time of this post, I am learning a lot about French culture from my co-workers (thanks Mehdi, Paul, Aminata, and Marie-Pierre) so depending on when you read this, my views likely have changed.
Apartment Search in Paris, Part 2
LA VIE: This is the second post in a three-part series about obtaining an apartment in Paris. To read the first post, click here.
As previously mentioned, obtaining a “flat” in Paris is rather hard. It’s all about supply and demand. One critical hurdle I dealt with is obtaining my French bank account.
Oui, Paris “Soldes” (Sales)
LA VIE: Let’s cut to the meat of this post… PARIS HAS GREAT SALES (SOLDES)! Now, I can back up and explain a few details: Paris has two major sale seasons - July and January. Sales last about 6 weeks and merchandise is discounted 50-70%.
Evening Stroll Along Champs Élysées
LA VIE: Exploring Paris reveals some of the traditional, yet pleasant things about the French. I adore their ability to be mobile and simply enjoy life. As I enjoy the thousands of people walking around the city, I’m still a newbie and wander around alone. Aside from a few friends as work, I’m very young in the meeting new people stage
Supermarché: My First Paris Grocery Experience
LA VIE: I have to admit, America spoiled me on one-stop shopping and mega strip mall conveniences. Being able to buy groceries, tires, books, and get your nails done in one giant strip of land has its benefits!
