Practical guides to the rhythms and realities of everyday life in France as an American. This section covers French phone plans and which operators offer the best value for new arrivals, how to set up internet and what to do during the installation wait, navigating French culture and social norms that differ significantly from US expectations, how the French school year and public holiday calendar affect your planning, grocery shopping, healthcare appointments, administrative offices, and other daily logistics. We also cover language learning resources, integration into French social life, finding English-speaking communities, and the practical adjustments that make the difference between a stressful first year and a genuinely good one.
Lycée and university blockades have spread across France since mid-September 2026. What is happening, what the sources say, and what it means for Americans there.
Aurelio Maurici10 min read
From France, a parcel to the US pays duty from the first dollar, and La Poste says the sender settles it. What each customs page says, and where they differ.
Maxime Roseau17 min read
Tipping in France is always optional because prices include service by law. Round up, and keep five to ten percent for service that truly impressed you.
Maxime Roseau15 min read
Expat loneliness in France is real. A practical guide to making friends in France as an American, and how French friendship actually works.
Maxime Roseau20 min read
In France, E.Leclerc is the cheapest big grocery chain; Lidl and Aldi usually beat it on basics. Carts take a one-euro coin. Sunday shopping ends at 1 p.m.
Maxime Roseau15 min read
Take a French phone plan with no commitment: about 2 to 20 euros a month, canceled at any time. Your bank, lease and CPAM file all ask for a French number.
Maxime Roseau17 min read
The French administrative vocabulary Americans actually need at the prefecture, CPAM, bank, and housing office, with key phrases to build confidence fast.
Aurelio Maurici13 min read
What a recommandé is, what an avis de passage means, how to pick up registered mail in France, and what to do when official letters arrive for Americans.
Maxime Roseau17 min read
The US Embassy in Paris lists English-speaking doctors, and lawyers familiar with US-French matters. A French accountant cannot file your US tax return.
Maxime Roseau17 min read
No French test for the visa. Since January 2026: B1 for the carte de résident, B2 for naturalization. What each stage requires and when to start.
Maxime Roseau17 min read
A rabies shot given before the ISO microchip does not count, and it grounds your pet at check-in. The correct order, the 21-day wait, and the USDA window.
Maxime Roseau24 min read
France bans Category 1 dogs outright, and a US shelter pit bull mix label can put your dog there. How the pedigree rule works, and what to check first.
Maxime Roseau16 min read
