Near Pont Neuf in Paris

What do expats find most challenging?

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We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Paris. They wrote...

"The bureaucracy is pretty irritating. Probably the worst is the tendency of the French to keep to themselves and their network of friends. Makes it exceedingly difficult to rebuild my social network. The language is causing me a lot of trouble," commented one expat who made the move to Paris, France.

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BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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"Many expats in Paris find it challenging to adjust to the pace of life in the city. The pace of life in Paris is usually quite fast, with many people rushing about to get places on time. Moreover, the French culture places a strong emphasis on politeness. Even strangers that meet in passing exchange formal greetings and bear the expectation of being polite. This difference in social interaction can be difficult for expats to adjust to, as it may be different to the culture they are accustomed to. Additionally, the French language can be difficult to learn, particularly for those who don’t have a background in Romance languages. Expats often find themselves struggling to make themselves understood, and can find it difficult to fit in with the locals," remarked another expat in Paris, France, France.

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What do expats find most challenging?

If you live in Paris, newcomers to Paris would love to hear your answer to this question.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

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