samedi 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?

Churches are no longer for the extremely religious. They have transformed into excellent places for socialization. In France, there are enough centers offering interdenominational services in English. Joining one of these centers gives you a chance to engage in charity work, professional group discussion, martial arts, choir singing, etc. The congregations that operate in English are excellent places to meet Americans and other nationalities in France. You do not have to join their religious rituals.

Major political parties have branches in countries and cities around the world. France has one of the most active gatherings of democrats and republicans. These forums discuss emerging issues in America on regular basis. Joining such a group also gives you an opportunity to participate in US politics despite being abroad. You will learn how to vote abroad, campaign, vote early, mobilize people, etc. During election nights, they organize parties where live streaming of results takes place.

There are incredible events organized for English speakers in France. They are announced on media outlets and websites. Listen to radios and watch local channels broadcasting in English to catch the schedules. Some of these enjoyable events include therapy sessions, hikes, professional discussions, dog walking, etc. They occupy your weekends and give you a chance to interact with amazing people.

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.

Does your university have an alumni organization in France? Most of the major universities have alumni organizations in major European cities. Check their notice boards to locate the office and upcoming activities. Purpose to attend one of their activities. You might be lucky to meet former classmates, juniors and seniors who will make excellent friends. They will show you the joint that serves excellent buggers.

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.

American friends offer excellent company to discuss politics, watch Super Bowl, analyze global events, etc. Getting one in France provides a feeling of home. While you can get a good number of friends over the internet, it is best to get out of the house and socialize. The friends you make will give you the most beautiful experiences and memories to carry home.




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