Expat Guide

Expat Guide

I’ve been an expat since 2012. I’ve lived in four countries, including France, the UK, and Switzerland.

And when I say I lived in these countries, I mean I was a legal resident. I paid taxes, rented an apartment, had a job, and went through the process of applying for and renewing visas. I dealt with each country’s healthcare system and administration. I even studied French and became fluent while holding a full-time job.

I experienced the ups and downs of living abroad and everything in between. I’m an expert on living and moving abroad, and I have more than a decade’s worth of knowledge to share with you.

The articles listed here are a list of all my experiences, advice, and things I’ve learned along the way.

General Moving Abroad Guides

11 Things to Consider Before Moving Abroad (from an Expat)

Losing My Identity: An Expat’s Journey to Self-Discovery

Living Abroad in France

21 Pros and Cons of Living in France (from a Local Expat)

25 Pros and Cons of Living in Marseille, France

15 Pros and Cons of Living in Strasbourg

23 Pros and Cons of Living in Lyon, France

27 Pros and Cons of Living in Dijon, France

25 Pros and Cons of Living in Lille, France

33 Pros and Cons of Living in Paris

I Hate France – Why Do a lot of People Dislike France?

Why I Love France: 11 Reasons to Fall Head over Heels

Language in Paris: A Practical Guide with Tips and Phrases

What is the Zip Code for Paris? There’s More Than One!

21 Best Places to Live in France for Expats

How I Got My Long-Stay Visa (Spouse of a French Citizen)

Language Resources

How to Say My Name Is in French: 25 Useful Ways (+ Audio)

How to Say Thank You in French: 50 Easy Ways (with Audio)

How to Say You’re Welcome in French: 23 Easy Ways (+ Audio)

How to Say Yes in French: 41 Useful Ways (with Audio)

How to Say Hello in French: 39 Easy Ways (with Audio)

How to Say I Agree in French: 35 Useful Ways (with Audio)