Learning French in Paris: The Best Schools and Programs for Your Language Goal

Learning French in Paris: The Best Schools and Programs for Your Language Goal

If you’re really trying to speak French, eventually you’ll want to go to the motherland. And unless you are one of those super annoying people who has an “amazing ear” and picks up languages from just a vacation (looking at my sister), you’re going to…

Charli’s Top Podcasts for French Language Learning

Charli’s Top Podcasts for French Language Learning

When I moved to Paris and needed to improve my French FAST, I added some French podcasts into my playlist as part of my crash-learning plan. Here are my top picks, and some reader recommendations!

I Still Speak English at Home with My French Husband. Here’s Why.

I Still Speak English at Home with My French Husband. Here’s Why.

I confess that my French is not as far along as I would like. But when people here in Paris find out I am married to a Frenchman, many are quick to scold me for not speaking French at home with my husband.

Lutèce, Paname…how many Paris nicknames do you know?

Lutèce, Paname…how many Paris nicknames do you know?

Lutèce, Paname, City of Light… Paris by any other name is just as sweet! You’ll see Paris’s former names and nicknames used all over the city as well as in books, movies and songs. Here are the noms de plume of Paris to know.

Classic ‘French Songs’ that are Actually Ripped-off English Tunes

Classic ‘French Songs’ that are Actually Ripped-off English Tunes

While unknown to most Americans, Johnny Hallyday is one of France’s most beloved singers of all time. Until his death earlier this year, the “French Elvis” was selling out giant stadiums in Europe. He also loved to take American hits and pass them off as his…

Why Do French People Respond in English When I Speak French?

Why Do French People Respond in English When I Speak French?

It’s a frustrating, but common occurrence for expats in France — You ask a question in French and the response comes in English. You try again in French. Still English. But don’t freak out, French people (most likely) aren’t doing this because they’re rude or…

Do French People Really Wear Berets? French Clichés Investigated

Do French People Really Wear Berets? French Clichés Investigated

Are French people all eating snails in their striped shirts while smoking? Well…oui and non. Every country has its stereotypes and France probably has more than its fair share. Let’s examine some of the most common clichés about French people.

Très French Names You Won’t Hear at the American Playground

Très French Names You Won’t Hear at the American Playground

Some French baby names are very “en vogue” right now in America (Camille, Chloé, Olivier), and others are eternally chic (Juliette, Brigitte, Louis). But some interesting French names won’t be topping American baby name lists anytime soon.

How to Live in Paris without Speaking French

How to Live in Paris without Speaking French

Bonjour, my name is Charli and I barely speak French. Oh no, I didn’t let this stop me from moving to Paris, which either makes me incredibly optimistic or pig-headed. Jury is still out. But I do know I’m far from alone.

10 Books to Read Before Moving to France

10 Books to Read Before Moving to France

When I first considered moving to Paris, I went in search of other people’s experiences of doing the same. I was hoping to take advantage of the authors’ lessons learned…