What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in France. They wrote...
"Becoming fluent in French and being patient with the inordinate amount of time bureaucratic things take to be accomplished. Dealing with the utility companies, internet, etc. is very frustrating, as it takes months to get some things taken care of that would take hours or days in the US," explained one expat living in Roquebrun, France.
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"One of the most challenging aspects of French culture for expats is the emphasis on formality, which can be quite intimidating. Additionally, expats often face a language barrier when trying to communicate in French, even if they know the basics of the language. Furthermore, the bureaucracy in France can be overwhelming for those not used to it, with many businesses requiring paperwork and official documents signed in order to complete simple tasks. There can also be misunderstandings due to cultural differences in managing work, relationships, and personal matters. Expats must learn to adapt to the unwritten laws of social conduct and etiquette, balancing the demands of politeness with the need to express their own opinions. Finally, the costs of living in France as an expat can be high compared to other countries; expats may need to adjust their expectations and adjust their budget accordingly," said another expat in France.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to France?
- Where should I setup a bank account in France?
- Will I be able to find a job in France?
- What is life like in France?
- What do expats in France appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in France?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in France accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in France like?
- What are healthcare services like in France?
- What are medical services in France like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in France?
- What are emergency services like in France?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in France?
- How are local medical facilities in France?
- As a foreigner living in France, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in France, newcomers to France would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of InternationalTravel.ai and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and InternationalTravel.ai, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.