France is a country that loves to make their cities and villages look nice. Sometimes just taking a stroll through one of the towns will amaze you. The cathedrals are very impressive, and ladies, you will find that some of the most interesting shops are found in the smallest streets.
If you are a South African and thinking of coming to France, be prepared for a VERY bumpy ride as medical and birth certificates along with learning the language are just a few of the mountains standing in your way.
Once in France though, you might be pleasantly surprised about some of the differences compared to back home. For one, the medical system in France is brilliant. You get what we call a “Carte Vitale” or the “Green Carte”. With this, 50% of what you spend on doctors and medication is refunded back to you. Learning French in France will cost you nothing, all you need to do is sign a contract of immigration with the ANAEM and French lessons will be provided to you.
The funniest cultural difference for me is at breakfast time, you need to keep the cereal in your bowl away from the French, as they will pour coffee in it, instead of milk.
If you would like to learn more on the French people and their ways ways, I recommend reading Stephen Clarke’s three hilarious books: “A year in the Merde”, “Merde Actually” and “Talk to the Snail: 10 commandments for understanding the French”.
If you do have any questions, I recommend www.angloinfo.com , if you cannot find your answer there, look me up on Facebook, and leave me a message. For now it’s au revoir!
