Living in France is an amazing experience. There are so many reasons people choose to move to France. However, moving to France isn’t just for anyone. While it’s such an amazing country, it’s a good idea to do some research before moving here. Maybe the reason you’re moving here isn’t as fit and you’re better off not coming to France. We have great and welcoming people in this country. It’s also one of those countries where people come to experience life and achieve their dreams.
Now that you have settled and said you’re moving to France, what’s your reason for the move? This is an unspoilt natural environment with fewer people, uncrowded roads, more space, and zero traffic jams. Just that is enough to make someone think of relocating to France. But what is the reason for your move? Here are 8 reasons why a move to France may not be for you.
1. Running away from a bad situation at home
A bad situation at home isn’t going to get any better if you’re living in France. The best thing to do if you have a bad situation is to deal with it before you move to France. Living in France is stress free to some extent but it isn’t going to handle your bad situation for you. A bad situation is going to be a bad situation anywhere else. If you’re planning to run away from a bad situation, moving to France isn’t the best for you.
2. If you want or expect clockwork efficiency rather than a more Latin, laid-back attitude
As good as French people are, they’re also human. Some people move to France expecting clockwork efficiency. If you’re one of those people, stop considering your move to France. French people are cordial, respectful, and social. For this, they’re mistaken to e perfect and have clockwork efficiency. However, they have a more Latin, laid-back attitude. A French person will have no problem giving you an attitude if you have one or if you expect them to be perfect. Being nice isn’t a substitute of getting walked over and honestly, no one in France will give you the chance if you’re rude or arrogant.
3. If you believe the stereotypes about French being rude and arrogant
First time moving to France had me skeptical. The stories of French people being rude and arrogant almost scared me off but my experience was so different. France is a country with amazing people. The people are social and so accommodating. Once you’re able to converse in basic French, the rest is streamlined by the locals. If you’re the kind of person who believes the stereotypes about French people being rude and arrogant, moving to France isn’t for you.
4. If you expect everything to be open on Sundays
One thing about French culture is they love their weekends. Most of their social gatherings and events happen during the weekends. That is one reason why not everything is open on Sundays. Maybe you enjoy eating at a local place as the locals here have amazing food. However, if you expect that favorite restaurant to be open every day including Sundays, you might be surprised.
5. If you’re not prepared to learn the language
Learning French isn’t necessarily an option when it comes to living in France. French people are so proud of their language and they love it. When you know the language, it’s easier to make friends and socialize. It also becomes easier to live and maybe do business in the country. Living in France is fun, easier, and you also get more opportunities when you know the language. If you aren’t ready to learn French and at least the basics, moving to France is not the best option for you.
6. If you are not patient enough to build proper relationships with the locals
The first thing you need to do is learn their language. Making friends isn’t so easy even if you know the language. You’ll have to take things slow and accept that it will take time before the locals accept you as part of their society. For this to happen, be social but not awkwardly social. Participate in different community activities and learn their culture. French culture is something they’re so proud of and love so much. Any interest in their culture goes a long way into building relationships with locals.
7. If you expect American style service
When it comes to good service and etiquette, French people are good at it. American style service is also good but not at the level of quality the French has it. American style service is fast but in France, you have to be patient but expect great quality service. In America, we are so much used to fast service but we’re forced to accept the quality as it is. In France, you get impeccable service but you have to be patient. It’s one reason they serve you a glass of wine as your dinner gets ready. Or, a cup of coffee as your omelet is prepared by the chief chef.
8. If you don’t want to embrace French culture
Moving to France has advantages and disadvantages. You have to embrace the French culture if you want to enjoy the freedom, fun, and amazing experiences that come with living in France. For example, the French value sophistication and style. They also take pride in the artistry and beauty of their language and country. They share meals with family and attend extended family gatherings over the weekend. This is part of their culture that one has to adopt after moving to France.
When moving to France, you have to be open minded. That means you’ll have to accept some things as they are and change some of your old habits. You’re going to fit nicely in France if you are willing to love and be proud of the amazing country and people in this country. Be social, converse with the locals and make sure you’re not running away from something bad when moving to France. I hope these 8 reasons why a move to France may not be for you, helped clarify your reasons for moving.
You may also enjoy reading: The Pros And Cons Of Living As An Expat
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