Urban Index: Good day, Enrico! Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences with us. Let’s start with a bit about yourself!
Enrico: Thank you for having me! I’m Enrico, a 28-year-old originally from Italy. I took the leap and moved to France in 2021 after a transformative Erasmus experience.
Moving to France
Urban Index: Moving countries is a significant decision. What motivated you to make the move to France?
Enrico: There were two major driving forces behind my decision to move to France: love and work. I was drawn to the French approach to work, which seemed more accommodating for people like me who pursued a non-specialized academic path (I studied history). In addition, since I was 13, I had dreamt of living in Paris – the city’s allure was irresistible.
Urban Index: It sounds like a blend of personal aspirations and practical considerations guided your choice. Did you do any research or preparation before making the move? Were there any unique challenges stemming from your Italian background that you encountered?
Enrico: Certainly! I attempted to secure an apartment prior to my arrival, but it proved challenging due to the budget constraints and landlords’ stringent requirements in Paris. However, my luck changed as my boyfriend, being French, provided invaluable support.
Urban Index: Could you tell us about the specific neighbourhood in Paris where you chose to settle?
Enrico: I chose the 19th arrondissement because I am essentially a rive-droite person (the right bank of the Seine). I prefer the vibes, the activities to do and the variation of the north bank. The 19th arrondissement offers a blend of vibes, diverse activities, and a rich variety that resonated with me. Within this district, you can encounter the classic essence of Paris coexisting with modern architecture, along with parks and serene spots that contribute to the district’s unique character.
Urban Index: Arriving in a new country can be quite the experience. What was your first week like in France? Did you experience any culture shock?
Enrico: My first week was a whirlwind of emotions – it was almost surreal realizing that my long-held dream of living in Paris had come true. The most striking culture shock was the age dynamics in the workplace; in Italy, things tend to move a bit slower on the work front.
The French Language
Urban Index: Language often plays a significant role. Did you face any language barriers? In other words, did you learn French before moving?
Enrico: I had studied French during middle school, which gave me a foundation. However, the greatest language aid came from my relationship with my French boyfriend. His support immensely helped me navigate language barriers.
The French Administration
Urban Index: Dealing with administrative tasks in a new country can be daunting. Did you have to interact much with the French administration? Were there any amusing anecdotes or challenges you faced?
Enrico: Ah, the French administration – a tale of its own! For instance, I’ve had my fair share of dealings, particularly with the Assurance Maladie. The process is often slow, communication is minimal, and digitalization isn’t fully embraced. The phone wait times can be exasperating (>60 minutes).
On the bright side, I did have a positive experience with the tax office, where responsiveness and redirection to the right resources were commendable.
Working in France
Urban Index: Finding work in a foreign land can be an adventure. How did you go about finding employment in France?
Enrico: Friends directed me to the “Welcome to the Jungle” website, a fantastic resource for job hunting. It proved invaluable in connecting me with opportunities that suited my profile.
- How to find a job in France
- How to quit your job in France
- The French working contract
A Flat in Paris
Urban Index: Accommodation and adjusting to living costs are crucial aspects. How did you find a suitable home in France, and how did the cost of living compare to Italy?
Enrico: Over two years, I changed apartments four times – a journey that wasn’t without its stresses. Initially, budget constraints were a hurdle. As I grew accustomed, I noticed that the cost of living especially in Paris, was noticeably higher than in Italy. Having lived in Milan (where costs are also elevated), the change wasn’t too much of a shock.
Social Life
Urban Index: Forming connections and integrating socially is vital. How did you go about making friends in your new country?
Enrico: Much of my friendships sprouted from work, where an international atmosphere facilitated interactions. While most experiences were positive, nonetheless, there were instances where the reserved nature of some French individuals made socialization more challenging. This may be attributed to their apprehension about speaking English.
Urban Index: Thank you for sharing your journey, Enrico!
