This article is an insider’s account of a Navy SEAL officer and his wife’s transition from a life of travel and adventure to settling down in Paris.
Get ready to be inspired by Rick Jones’s unique perspective on life in the City of Lights. He and his wife, Ellen Bryson, have traded their adventurous lifestyle for a slower pace in the French capital. He shares his personal experiences, both positive and negative, about the joys and challenges of adapting to a new culture.
From Buenos Aires to Paris: A Journey of Discovery
Rick and Ellen, a couple with a shared thirst for exploration, have lived in diverse locations like Buenos Aires and various cities across the United States. Their adventurous spirit led them to embrace new cultures and experiences. However, their wanderlust took them to the heart of France, where they decided to settle down.
The decision to relocate to Paris wasn’t a sudden whim. It stemmed from Ellen’s membership in Alliance Française, an organization that sparked her interest in French culture. After attending a meeting, she proposed the idea to Rick, who had cherished memories of the city from his college days.
Their shared love for Paris and a desire for a more settled life led them to embark on this life-changing journey. They diligently planned their transition, selling their house and carefully analyzing their finances.
Paris: A City of Delights and Challenges
The couple embraced the Parisian lifestyle, immersing themselves in the vibrant culture and exploring the city’s hidden treasures. They found solace in the friendly community of the Association of American Residents Overseas, a group that facilitated their integration into French society.
Rick highlights three aspects of Paris that he particularly enjoys. He raves about the abundance of fresh produce available at open-air markets, the gastronomic diversity that surpasses anything he’s experienced in the US, and the immense walkability of the city. He even enjoys the French habit of cooking and sharing recipes at home.
However, even in paradise, there are some minor inconveniences. Rick admits that the bureaucracy can be frustrating at times, with complex procedures and extensive paperwork for even simple tasks like transferring funds. He finds it particularly challenging to adapt to the French bureaucratic system.
A Glimpse into French Life
Rick observes that the French have a strong sense of tradition and often adhere to their established ways. He notes their adherence to the Napoleonic Code, which emphasizes stability and uniformity in legal matters.
This traditional approach can be seen in various aspects of French life. For instance, the housing market, which is characterized by a shortage of available units, is influenced by the law requiring parents to divide their property equally among their children.
The French are often portrayed as being very liberal. However, Rick contends that they can be conservative in certain aspects. He cites their resistance to change in areas like the retirement system, where protests erupt over proposed reforms.
Rick’s experience in Paris has provided him with a unique perspective on the French way of life. He acknowledges both the delights and challenges that come with living in this culturally rich city. He offers a balanced view of a society deeply rooted in its heritage while navigating the complexities of adapting to the modern world.
