Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Epinal, France, France

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Epinal, France

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture in Epinal for expats is learning to speak French fluently. Although there are a large number of English speakers in the area, many of locals still rely on the native tongue for basic communication. Another challenging aspect for expats is the different pace of life. Life in Epinal is generally more relaxed and laid-back than some other places and locals may take a bit more time to complete tasks, which can be difficult for expats coming from a more rushed lifestyle. Finally, expats may have difficulty adjusting to the food culture of Epinal. Many French foods are foreign to those outside of the country, and some may experience a bit of a learning curve when it comes to the regional delicacies.