Expat Advice: Living in Nice, France
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Nice
How long have you lived there?
1 year 4 months
What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?
French Classes at the Alliance Francaise, Fitness Club. There is also a center for visitors to Nice called the AVF but the one in Nice, caters mostly to older people. The website, www.angloinfo.com is also a good resource for English-speaking people living in the Cote d'Azur region.
In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.
Again, while it is difficult to get to know the local population here, it does seem like there is not that much diversity in this region. It is true that there are a lot of immigrants in this region but they are mainly from North Africa and this population is largely ghettoized and separated from the "mainstream". This in itself, is a reflection of the general dislike of foreigners that is often seen here. Also, keep in mind that the extreme right-wing party, the Front National, has a big following in the Nice/Cannes area. For the most part, I think that while people in Nice and France in general, are accepting of difference, I have definitely heard of several instances from other foreigners who are non-White about unpleasant situations with unfriendly neighbors and rude store managers. In other words, this is no San Francisco or New York!
What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?
The main industries in the Nice area are technology and tourism. You can look for jobs on Monster.co.fr or www.pacajob.com and several other career websites.
If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.
Nice is a small city with typical small city advantages and disadvantages. It can be quite provincial in its outlook and also quite dirty with grafitti and dog litter all over the place. Petty crime is also an issue here. Do not move to Nice expecting cutting-edge culture, world-class restaurants and entertainment. This small city caters mainly to tourists and most restaurants have a standard, jaded menu. Summer time can be horrendous here in terms of the crowds, traffic and the wait at restaurants. However, If you like buying fresh fish, fruits, flowers and vegetables from bustling markets, this might be a place for you. And if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing (1 hour north of Nice)and lying on the beaches (very few sandy beaches though)in the summer, this might be the place for you.
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guestAs a Canadian I was just in Nice for what must be my tenth visit now. I absolutely love the city and the people. I have always found everyone helpful, friendly, with a relaxed more content way of living. I never just do the tourist areas, I like to get right in there and meet people of various backgrounds. I like to explore the depths of any city and really see how people live and like living in their region. I adore the city. Nice and the surrounding area is a wonderful, happy place to see. I went to the nightclubs at all hours, explored the outskirts of the city and never have had one bad experience. People seem to have more of a respect and decorum. Very refreshing. I was even offered three job opportunities without even enquiring! I will be back again next year. I love it!
guestLived in Nice for 24 years. The English Library, the English language cinemas, the Commonwealth Club, the International Club, the American Association, The British Association & over a 100 museums within 30 miles, and many more attractions ensure that if you speak English, you have a fantastic choice of culture and entertainment. Restaurants are both cheap and mediocre but if you know where to go, excellent and reasonable. Have you really looked at what is available? I doubt... JK
guestHello, I am new to Nice. I have been here for about a year. I am originally from New York. I worked in Paris for three years before I started working in Nice. Both New York and Paris are exceptioal cities in that it is very easy to find interesting and exciting events, readily available, often for very little money --- if you know where to go. Nice is a bit more daunting in that respect. You need to look for events and as always, it con be difficult to make new contacts. You also need a car! That can be a struggle, if you were used to public transportation, as I was in New York and Paris.
guestI am an expat living in Nice (blog: 24/7 in France) and find the city offers a wide range of activities for everyone! You don't really need a car, as public transportation is easy and accessible. It just takes making an effort to find what you like! Bienvenue!
brucespringertonThe city of Nice is like in holidays ! Beautiful city with many things to do. There are museums, the famous "Promenade des Anglais", etc. If you want to study there are international schools and business school. But at the airport of Nice, you need to take a transfer company ( http://www.nice-airport-transfer.fr ) to go at home, principaly on the evening. Enjoy your stay.
