The week before I left Australia I was sitting in the bank, patiently waiting for my turn to be served. When my number was finally called, a helpful middle-aged lady assisted me in updating my account details, and in noting I was going to be overseas for an extended time. She asked me where I was travelling to. I told her France, Paris initially. She then proceeded to tell me about a book written by an Australian woman who met a French man whilst residing in Europe, moved to Paris, and chronicled her experiences adapting to the new culture – and the locals’ adaptation to her!
In the following week, quite independently of this event (and of each other), two of my friends also recommended the very same book. So it seemed I was meant to get hold of it!
I therefore downloaded “Almost French: A New Life in Paris” (Sarah Turnbull) on to my Kindle in preparation for my trip. On my third night in Paris, I started reading.
The content focuses on the cultural differences the author encounters in her personal and professional life, and the time it takes to adapt to these – if at all! Humorous, interesting, and enlightening, I enjoyed reading about her experiences.
The book supports some of the cliches we are all familiar with, such as the fashionable Parisiens; the locals’ love of their dogs; and the attitudes she encounters trying to adapt to her new way of life after arriving
“in my safari shorts and flat, clumpy sandals, oblivious to the horror my outfit would inspire in any self-respecting Frenchman”.
But it also provides insights into the French ways of life that are so charming and endearing to a foreigner: the retention of history and culture that shine through in the everyday habits and routines; the loyalty and camaraderie between the residents and the local shopkeepers in the boulangeries, fromageries and so on; the beauty of the city itself in its magnificent buildings and gardens that engender so much pride.
The author’s experiences took place from the mid 1990’s to the early 2000’s. Once I have spent some more time here, I will be interested to compare my encounters and observations with those she describes, and whether perhaps some aspects may have changed over this time – taking into account the depth of my experiences may not be directly comparable!
There were certainly some laugh-out-loud moments and instances she recounts I could already relate to. My enjoyment of this story was probably also enhanced by the author being Australian and her references to “home”.
Even if you haven’t spent time in Paris, this book is a good read. But I daresay the appeal would be mainly towards a female audience 😉
Follow Your Dream 