π BEATING THE AUTUMN BLUES
π― October often marks a tough period for expatriates, especially for spouses without professional activities. After the excitement of preparing and arriving, things calm down, and you realize that adapting to this new, seemingly hostile environment is going to take some effort. π€― You may feel like you’ve lost your bearings, with friends and family... Continue reading→
π¨ Visiting Monuments and Museums in France
π When you first arrive in France, especially in Paris where many museums and monuments are concentrated, the temptation to explore everything can be overwhelming. But how can you make the most of your visits and get the best deals? ποΈ Tip: Mark the first Sunday of the month in your calendar! Access to permanent... Continue reading→
The France-Visas Digital Portal
π The France-Visas digital portal brings together all the necessary information to guide foreign nationals through the visa application process for France. It now also allows users to submit their visa applications online by completing the visa form and attaching all the required supporting documents. You can also track the status of your application through... Continue reading→
π Job Search as an Expat Spouse
βοΈ During an expatriation, the spouseβs employment situation is often disrupted. Sometimes, they may be offered the option to keep their job remotely, but more commonly, moving to a foreign country requires a career rethink. π European citizens have an advantage, as no work permit is required to hold a job within the European Union.... Continue reading→
β¨ This is also office life in France
π Expatriates arriving in France often critique some of our work habits and management styles: rigid hierarchies, flexible working hours, and the proliferation of unproductive meetings are frequently mentioned. π‘ But what do they appreciate despite these challenges? Social protection and the emphasis on health are aspects they value, along with a certain informality in... Continue reading→
πNew immigration law for French residence
π Tightening of Access to Multi-Year Residence Permits and Resident Cards: The recent immigration reform, known as the “Darmanin Law,” has significantly tightened the integration requirements and conditions for obtaining longer-term residence permits, such as multi-year residence permits and resident cards. – π From now on, holders of a temporary residence permit will no longer... Continue reading→
π BEES IN PARIS
π Urban beekeeping has seen significant growth in Paris since the 2000s, following the city’s “zero pesticides” policy. The complete ban on pesticides in parks, gardens, and cemeteries, combined with the mild temperatures and the rich diversity of vegetation in the capital, provides ideal living conditions for bees. ποΈ The rooftops of the OpΓ©ra Garnier,... Continue reading→
πΌοΈ FROM THE LOUVRE TO VERSAILLESβ¦
π₯ In 2023, the Louvre attracted nearly 9 million visitors, 68% of whom were tourists, tirelessly exploring the 13.5 km of galleries and jostling to catch a glimpse of the iconic Mona Lisa! π° Having become a museum in 1793, the Louvre was originally a fortress in the 12th century before becoming a royal residence... Continue reading→
π² Nature in the City of Paris
π³ Historically, the 18th century marks a turning point: parks, gardens, and tree-lined promenades, open to the public, are considered essential for the physical and moral well-being of citizens. πΏ During the Second Empire, the major urban projects undertaken in Paris by Baron Haussmann included an ambitious greening policy. Woods, parks, squares, and alignment trees... Continue reading→
π οΈ Progress on the Restoration of Notre-Dame
π It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since the world watched in disbelief as Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris was engulfed in flames. β¨ Today, we eagerly anticipate the reopening of the cathedral, confirmed for December 8, 2024. ποΈ After years of painstaking restoration work, experts involved in the project promise a stunning transformation:... Continue reading→