What is it like to build a life in the Paris Region as an expat? Zoé, an American from Texas, shares her experience of settling in, raising a family, and falling for the charm of her adopted home. Initially moving to Paris in 2009 for love, it took her some time to fully embrace the city. Now a family tour guide and travel planner, she enjoys discovering and sharing the cultural treasures of the region. Dive into her story, her favorite spots, and her advice for making the most of life in the Paris Region!

Tell us about your arrival in Paris Region

Well, I suppose the reason was a common one, and one that did not specifically have to do with Paris - love! I met my French husband in Texas during college and eventually followed him to his home in Paris in 2009. I was a rare American that was not head over heels for Paris - it took me quite a few years to really fall in love with the city!

Where did you choose to live and why?

When I arrived from Texas, Paris felt like such a big and bustling city to me. After exploring various neighborhoods, we settled on living in a tiny apartment up on the hill of Montmartre. The neighborhood felt a bit more cozy and quaint to me than other areas in Paris, and having studied Art History I adored the fact that the quarter has such a vibrant cultural history. Now we live in the 18th arrondissement, and we love the proximity to Montmartre and also how diverse the neighborhood is. My kids have friends of all different nationalities!

Tell us about your current job & what do you enjoy the most about working in Paris Region?

I am a family tour guide and travel planner (www.zoepetit.com), a job that organically developed after I had my kids. Living with kids in a tiny Parisian apartment meant I was constantly trying to find activities in the city to get us out of the house. This is when I really started really discovering the plethora of cultural activities for all ages that Paris has to offer, and when I really fell in love with the city! There are so many things I adore about working in Paris - the breathtaking beauty of the city, the fact that every corner of the city is steeped in history, and the never ending and often free cultural activities!

Which school have you chosen for your children, and how does it meet your expectations?

My children are enrolled in the public French school right around the corner from our home, and we are thrilled with it, as are the kids. There have of course been some cultural differences to adapt to - the days are long, and the French system is perhaps a bit more rigid than what I am used to in the US. That said, there have been so many wonderful surprises like the emphasis on cultural outings and gardening, and the 11-day school field trips to the countryside to learn about farms and animals! I would say having a French spouse or having at least one parent fluent in French helps to navigate the system.

What, according to you, are the perks of living in Paris Region?

Hands down – the access to culture! I especially love how affordable activities and museums are - kids often get in for free, which really takes the pressure off staying too long at museums, for instance.
I also love the fact that the city is physically quite small. We can get almost anywhere in under 40 minutes using the excellent metro system. The combination of its compact size and the great public transportation makes the region feel very accessible. Personally, I find it easy to hop on a train or RER with the kids to go explore!

Your favourite spot?

For Paris it's easy - go to the top of the Ile de la Cité island right in the middle of Paris and look for the weeping willow right below the Square du Vert Galant. You can sit under the tree, with your feet dangling above the Seine. It is incredibly beautiful, with the bridges spanning in front of you and the boats passing by. It's very romantic also!

In the Paris Region, I think I'll say the Ferme de Gally, in Saint-Cyr-l'École, about an hour from central Paris. This is a little farm where you can harvest your own vegetables! You grab a wheelbarrow and then explore, picking whatever is in season, including fresh flowers! I have so many nice memories of coming here with the kids, and while it's not too far from Paris, it definitely feels like you have left the big city behind!

What advice you would give to a newcomer to make the most of Paris Region?

Get out and explore! Pick a new neighborhood every weekend and go for a walk around - choose a coffee shop, park, and outdoor market to visit. The more you walk the city, the smaller and more manageable it seems, and the sooner it will feel like home!

What was a “good surprise" when you got here?

Once I had kids, I was really surprised by how much French people love kids! In general, I feel like they seem very invested in kids, even strangers. This can sometimes come in the form of a comment about kids not being dressed appropriately for the weather for instance, but I think it comes from a place of wanting to help.

Now that you have been living in Paris Region, what stereotype do you believe to be wrong about the French?

I suppose everyone knows the stereotype of Parisians being rude - I remember a Forbes survey in which France came in first for rudeness! - BUT I disagree. French people are not really people-pleasers like we can be in the US for instance. They are not going to say something they consider untrue just to spare someone's feelings. They are very genuine people! Also, I remember being lost multiple times when someone saw me studying a map, and they offered to help! Parisians have their tough moments, but just like everywhere else!
 

Inspired by Zoé’s journey and eager to explore the cultural gems of the Paris Region? Check out some great ideas on our Visit Paris Region website, from family-friendly activities to hidden spots loved by locals. You can also find practical tips and advice to help you settle in on our Living in Paris Region pages and discover more expat experiences in our other Talent Stories.