Movie buffs may recall the famous line “Paris is always a good idea” from the 1954 film Sabrina, starring Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart. While Bogart’s character, Linus Larrabee, may have needed a little more convincing, Sabrina Fairchild appeared enchanted by Paris.
Movies and TV shows are full of quotes depicting the allure of Paris and this has prompted thousands of expats to call the city home. From a few weeks to several years, Paris is always a good idea for so many reasons.
The Universal Appeal of Paris
Mention Paris and most people automatically think of the Eiffel Tower. It is, after all, France’s most iconic landmark. But there is so much more to Paris than just the famous tower. Paris is often referred to as the city of love and is the home of some of the best cuisine in the world and some pretty amazing fashion as well. The city is full of museums, chateaus and palaces, historic landmarks and more. Paris also has a vivacious nightlife and attracts young people from all over the world with some choosing to stay and call Paris home.
There Is Something for Everyone in Paris
While Paris is a mecca for tourists, it is also becoming increasingly popular for expats wanting to try the Parisian lifestyle. Not surprisingly, The Local France reports that there are officially around 31,000 Americans living in France with about half of them calling the capital, Paris, home. Add international students and short term workers as well as those who are yet to register and that number increases exponentially. The reason for Paris’ popularity among expats could be the fact that it offers something for everyone. From singles to couples, retirees to families, anyone can call Paris home and many do. It’s the joie de vivre or living life to the fullest that makes living in Paris so appealing to so many.
Romanticizing The City
Paris is often romanticized in movies and TV shows. Movies such as Sabrina (1954) and Amélie (2001) show the La Vie En Rose of this charming city. Many visitors also love to view life in Paris through rose-colored glasses and the reality is that although life in Paris may not always be perfect, it can be vibrant, and exciting one day while being calming and conventional the next. No matter what lifestyle or dream you are chasing, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Paris.
Introduce Yourself to Paris
If you’ve decided to call Paris home, don’t be shy. The best way to get to know the city is to get out there and explore. Leave the car parked and hit the streets on foot. This is the best way to find small, hidden gems such as intimate cafes and restaurants, quaint little boutiques and really get to know the locals. Don’t be afraid to get a little lost either as you explore “out-of-the-way” areas where Paris is its most authentic. Also, don’t forget to greet people when you enter stores with a friendly “Bonjour”.
Create Your Own Parisian Story
Just like Emily in the Netflix hit show, Emily in Paris, you too can enjoy a fantastic life in Paris. Finding the right job shouldn’t pose too much of a problem and you’ll also have no issues finding long or short-term accommodation. The right online platform and a few custom filters is all you need to secure a place to call home wonderful Paris. Like Emily in Paris, you too can see the world in a spectacular way and have your own La Vie En Rose moments.
Whether you plan on living in France for a few months, a few years or permanently, the City of Light will not disappoint. You can be the star of your own show and have a rewarding life as long as you know what you want and think like a local Parisian.
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