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A Smooth Move to Paris
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15995 |
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Section : |
LIFE
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| Issue
Date : |
7 / 1989 |
1,669 Words |
| Author
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Karen Fawcett
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Many Americans planning a move to Paris harbor a romanticized view of what life will be like in the City of Light. Their somewhat unrealistic ideas probably result from having seen too many movies focusing on the positive aspects of Paris. What movies don't prepare newcomers for are language, customs, attitudes, and traditions different from those of the Untied States.
Although it's not officially documented, more than half the Americans assigned to Paris by government or businesses are said to leave prematurely...often out of sheer inability to adapt.
Having said this, what should those posted to Paris anticipate?
First, don't expect good weather. Paris is located at the same latitude as Newfoundland and is overcast and rainy much of the time. "April in Paris" will probably find you carrying an umbrella.
Second, Americans should brace themselves for a shock when searching for an apartment or house. French accommodations tend to be much smaller and not up to the standards most Americans are used to. Apartments, often in buildings with dismal entrances and no elevator, are downright dreary before decorating and are frequently equipped with only a kitchen sink--no cabinets or appliances. Only recently have the French begun renovating to American standards, and such apartments rarely hit the rental market.
"Everyone is looking for an apartment with high ceilings, ornate moldings, beautiful wood floors, and french doors leading onto charming balconies," says Nancy Ross, an American real estate agent in Paris. "Unfortunately, few of these apartments are ever available."
"You have to understand the market and be willing to make compromises," continues Ross, "and most important, you have to be able to make a commitment to rent quickly, since a prime apartment rarely stays on the market more than twenty-four hours."
Additionally, the company sponsoring your move must be willing to guarantee your lease. Competition for apartments is so fierce that agents and owners are not interested in renting to a foreigner who has no backup.
Other points to smooth your move to Paris:
·Don't get obsessive about converting your expenditures from francs into dollars--or you may be horrified by how costly many of the necessities of life can be. Paris is expensive, especially when it comes to service-oriented items. For example, laundry and dry cleaning cost almost double what they do in the States. Learn to use spot cleaner.
·Other items that will strain your budget are ones most Americans take for granted. Gas for your car will cost close to one dollar per liter (almost four dollars a gallon). The price tages on paper napkins, plastic wrap and many cleaning supplies will make you stop to evaluate whether or not these items are really needed! In addition, you'll find your utility bills substantially higher than those at home.
·Another price shocker is the value-added tax
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