In Foreign Fields
Susie Kelly
24 min
8 Key Points
4.5 RateWhat's inside?
Explore the humorous and challenging journey of moving to France, filled with cultural misunderstandings and practical mishaps, perfect for those dreaming of a life abroad.
You'll learn
1. What's it like moving to France?2. How to handle culture shock and language issues?3. The ups and downs of a new lifestyle4. Handy tips for dealing with French red tape and traditions5. A sneak peek into French life, food, and landscapes6. Keeping your cool when things go south.Key points
01Why I chose to move to France?
Moving to a foreign country is a dream for many, a chance to start anew, to immerse oneself in a different culture, and to experience life from a fresh perspective. It's like being handed a blank canvas, with the freedom to paint your own masterpiece. But, as with any masterpiece, the process is often more complicated than it seems. This is the story of a woman who, driven by her fascination with France, decided to pack up her life and move to the land of wine, cheese, and the Eiffel Tower. France, for our protagonist, was like a charming stranger across the room at a party. It was the allure of the unknown, the promise of adventure, and the thrill of a new romance that drew her in. She was captivated by the country's rich history, its beautiful landscapes, and its vibrant culture. It was as if she was falling in love, swept up in the whirlwind of emotions that often accompany a new relationship. But this wasn't just a spur-of-the-moment decision. There were deeper, more personal reasons that propelled her towards this drastic change. She was dissatisfied with her current lifestyle, yearning for something more, something different. France, in her eyes, was the answer. It was the promise of a better life, a chance to escape the monotony of her everyday routine. However, like any love-struck individual, she had a romanticized view of what life in France would be like. She envisioned herself sipping wine in a quaint café, strolling through picturesque streets, and immersing herself in the local culture. But these expectations, while enticing, were not entirely grounded in reality. They were based on an idealized version of France, one that may not align with the actual experience of living there. As the day of the move approached, a mix of excitement and apprehension filled her. She was about to embark on a journey into the unknown, leaving behind the familiar for the allure of the foreign. The preparations were extensive, from packing up her belongings to saying goodbye to loved ones. It was a period of anticipation, of dreams yet to be realized, and of fears yet to be faced. In conclusion, the decision to move to France was driven by a combination of personal dissatisfaction, a fascination with the country, and a romanticized view of what life there would be like. It's a decision that carries with it a multitude of implications, setting the stage for a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. As we delve deeper into her story, we'll explore the realities of her move, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned along the way.
02Challenges of Moving to France: A Personal Account
In the book "In Foreign Fields: How Not To Move To France," Susie Kelly shares her personal journey of moving to France, a journey that was far from a walk in the park. Her experiences, filled with cultural shocks, language barriers, and the stark contrast between expectations and reality, provide a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by immigrants. Kelly's initial experiences in France were marked by cultural shocks. She was taken aback by unfamiliar social norms and traditions. For instance, she was surprised to find that in France, it's customary to kiss on both cheeks when greeting someone, a stark contrast to the simple handshake she was accustomed to. This cultural shock was not just about etiquette but extended to deeper societal norms, affecting her ability to adapt to her new environment. Language barriers further complicated Kelly's adaptation process. Despite her efforts to learn French, she often found herself in situations of miscommunication or misunderstanding. One such instance was when she asked for directions and ended up in a completely different location due to her limited understanding of the language. These language barriers not only affected her daily life but also exacerbated her feelings of alienation and disorientation. Kelly's preconceived notions about life in France were largely formed by romanticized portrayals of the country in movies and literature. She envisioned a life filled with leisurely strolls along the Seine, sipping coffee in quaint cafes, and enjoying the country's renowned cuisine. However, the reality was far from this idyllic image. Instead, she found herself grappling with bureaucratic red tape, struggling to find a suitable place to live, and trying to understand local customs. This stark contrast between expectations and reality contributed to her feelings of disappointment and frustration. Beyond cultural shock and language barriers, Kelly faced other struggles such as finding a place to live and understanding local customs. For instance, she was surprised to find that in France, it's not uncommon for landlords to ask for several months' rent in advance, a practice that was unfamiliar to her. These struggles, while seemingly mundane, significantly affected her overall experience of moving to France. In conclusion, Kelly's journey provides a realistic portrayal of the difficulties faced by immigrants. Her experiences, filled with cultural shocks, language barriers, and the stark contrast between expectations and reality, serve as a valuable lesson for others considering a move to a foreign country. It's a reminder that moving to a new country is not just about embracing a new culture but also about navigating the challenges that come with it. So, the next time you dream about moving to a foreign country, remember to pack not just your suitcase but also a healthy dose of patience and resilience.
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03Navigating French Bureaucracy: A Personal Journey
04Renovating a French Home: Mishaps, Challenges, and Victories
05Immersing in French Culture: A Personal Journey
06The Beauty of Rural France: A Glimpse into Country Living
07Reflecting on a Journey: Moving to a Foreign Country
08Conclusion
About Susie Kelly
Susie Kelly is a British author known for her travel memoirs, particularly about her experiences in France. Her humorous and candid writing style has earned her a dedicated following. Kelly's works often explore the challenges and delights of relocating and living abroad.