14 janvier 2017

Where To Find An American Friend In Paris

By Martha Moore


It is reassuring to find a person you share a language, culture, interests, etc in a foreign city. This gives you a feeling of home and an assurance that you will not be lonely. This is what happens when you find an American friend in Paris. Many people hope and expect this when they land at the airport, but it is never that easy and straightforward. What can you do to increase your chances of meeting new friends here?

Joining an English ministering church does not make you a convert. Today, churches offer more including singing sessions, dancing, charity works, discussions with professional groups, etc. There are churches conducting their affairs in English. These are the best places to start. This is not an invitation to join their religious rituals.

Join your party- democrats or republican wing abroad. These are the most common groups with active branches abroad. They organize discussions and forums on emerging issues on regular basis. You will participate in mobilizing people to, for instance, vote early, vote overseas and participate in result streaming all night parties.

Look for English activities in Paris. There are forums that advertise activities for English speakers in different cities. These activities include dog walking, hiking, professional gathering, therapy, etc. These events are frequent and distributed in cities around France. Most of them are held over weekends when you are free. You spend time with people who share a language and thus have a good time sharing experiences.

Spend your free time at a yoga studio, dancing class, language center, etc. These centers offer more than personal development and fitness. They give you a chance to interact with other foreigners who have come to learn French. While you enjoy dancing, you will make great friends and have familiar people to spend the weekends and holidays with. Already, you share similar interests like yoga, language, dancing, etc. Making friends will not be too big a challenge.

Is there an alumni organization by your university in France? Globally recognized institutions establish link offices in major cities. Check their website if they have an office and whether there are upcoming activities. Participate to increase your chances of meeting former classmates, seniors, juniors, staff, etc. They will spice your stay in the French capital, introduce you to excellent places and share memorable experiences as you catch up.

Go to social media. There are forums for Americans in different cities. Connect with them and follow the activities coming up near you. You may also consider visiting the American embassy in Paris. It gives you interesting events organized by the state and other actors for residents of the city. Their reports are comprehensive since the embassy supports the groups and organizations planning such activities.

An American friend offers the best company when discussing politics, global events, Super Bowl, etc. Finding one in France gives you a feeling of being home again. Despite there being numerous chances online through social media, face-to-face meetings offer a better socialization experience. Friends give you the best memories when it is time to leave France.




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