ABOUT
Lauren was originally born in Ohio but moved to Charlotte, NC when she was 11 years old with her mom and brother. Her dad was still in Ohio, so she would fly back for holidays and summers by herself. She got used to traveling solo from a very young age. She went to college in Asheville, NC and studied abroad in Montpellier, France for 1 year. She had a short stay in Los Angeles and finally landed in San Francisco where she now works as an occupational therapist. She speaks English, French (though it’s rusty) and conversational Spanish. She works in home health in a very diverse city, so she interacts with people of many different languages on a daily basis. She loves it and wishes she had all the time in the world to learn every language. She moved to Montpellier in August 2011 and left in May 2012.
Moving to Montpellier
Why did you move to Montpellier?
I’ve always loved the French language and I sort of fell into a French major in college (I just kept taking classes until it made sense..). Of course, I knew that living in France was where I would truly learn the language. I adore the beach and warm weather, so Montpellier seemed like a perfect city.
What surprised you about life there when you first arrived?
Honestly, I was surprised at how slow everything moved. I don’t even mean that as a negative. We move so quickly in the US, everything is “urgent”. It was initially frustrating but I did learn to love this aspect of French culture.
What did you bring with you?
A towel, clothing that can be created into multiple outfits, my camera gear, my laptop…honestly pretty basic but I wish I would have brought my towels and things for my apartment like plates. Those were not included so I ate off of a pizza box for a week or so. Ha!
How did you get set up?
HAHA! SO MUCH PATIENCE. I couldn’t understand a damn thing the bank employees were saying when I first moved there. It took me weeks to figure it out. The phone was pretty easy, I just bought a SIM card at a market for my American phone.
Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance?
Honestly, I think the school set it up. I just went to the doctors and they didn’t ask me for anything. It’s a huge difference from the nightmare that is American insurance.
How did you find an apartment?
Thankfully, my university did this for me.
Living in Montpellier
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Montpellier?
Maybe $3000/month at least.
What about housing?
I stayed in a small studio, I think it was around 600 euros a month or so. It was paid for by the school.
Did you feel safe as a woman?
No, I did not to be honest. Overall, I feel much safer in San Francisco. There’s a lot of cat calling in France and it felt aggressive at times.
Where are the best beaches?
Saint Tropez, Nice, I heard Biarritz is awesome if you like to surf.
What are the main differences between Americans and French people?
I think that overall, we have a lot in common. The US and France have a long history. But I would say that the French are less work obsessed than Americans are and are more willing to enjoy the simple things in life. I also noticed that there didn’t seem to be as many subcultures in France as there are in the US. It seems that fashion is more uniform in France. I felt like I stood out a lot in my colorful boho clothes.
What should people consider before deciding to move to France?
Just know that the train workers will be on strike. Just prepare your travels for that. Really though, France has a slower pace of life compared to America. I don’t know how it compares to other countries exactly in terms of pacing. But it’s best to go in with an open mind and don’t be rushed. You’ll just stress yourself out and be unhappy if you expect American speed in France. Enjoy the ride.
What is France famous for?
Americans think of France as cheese, wine, romance, bakeries.
Do French people speak English?
So-so. Less so in Montpellier, I think. Maybe more in Paris.
What stores do you find useful in your daily life in Montpellier?
Kebab shops because I had little money and the food was cheap! Also, local bakeries, and Zara. lol
What is your favorite city in France (other than Montpellier)?
I love Antibes. I thought it was so romantic. There is a cool, basement Absinthe bar there and a Picasso museum on the Côte d’Azur.
What is the most recent thing you've read in the news about France?
Strikes because the president is trying to raise the retirement age. I respect the labor unions in France!
What do you think about young French people?
I think the French young are very curious and experimental. I can hear it in modern French music.
What is your favorite period in French history?
I think 1960’s France has the most beautiful style and cinema.
Favorite historical event?
The French resistance during WWII. The French resistance used the catacombs in Paris to fight the Nazis!
Final Thoughts
What are the biggest challenges that France faces today?
I’ve heard there is quite a bit of racial tension in France right now.
What is your favorite French music?
Vendredi Sur Mer..it’s electronic, lounge type music.
Are there any experiences there that you are particularly proud of ?
The first time someone asked me for directions in French and I was able to give the directions correctly I was so proud.
How can Americans immigrate to France?
You can stay 3 months without a visa. After that, you’ll need a visa of some sort which you can apply for at the French embassy in the US. There are a few but I’m familiar with the ones in Atlanta and San Francisco.
Was it easy making friends and meeting people; did you mainly socialize with other expats?
Yes! I made so many lifelong friends. Most were international students as well. I didn’t meet as many French locals, though. I think you really have to put yourself out there because it’s easy to stay in your international student bubble. If you are dating, I imagine it’s easier to meet locals.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m going to travel back to Europe to visit my little sister studying abroad in Florence, so I’m trying to learn some Italian for the trip. I would love to take my husband to France sometime soon. I’m currently working on building my photography business. My website is lgauntphoto.com
Describe your favorite recreational activities there.
There’s a free zoo in Montpellier! It’s really nice and the animals look very well cared for. The beach is obviously beautiful and I saw lots of people windsurfing. The area is very rich in history so there are museums, vineyards, and ancient structures. There are a lot of small towns close enough for a day trip Avignon is very close by and has a ton of history.
Thank you so so much Lauren for sharing your experience with me! It’s actually funny because Lauren and I went to the same universities in Montpellier and Asheville NC, that’s where we met. I loved reading about your perspective on France 🙂 All the best for your photography endeavours! I highly recommend working with her, she’s the best especially if you feel a bit awkward in front of a camera! Follow her on IG here ♡
