What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Aix-en-Provence. They wrote...
"Expats in Aix-en-Provence, France often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Despite English being widely taught in schools, many locals prefer to speak in French, making it difficult for expats who are not fluent in the language to communicate effectively. Another challenge is the slower pace of life, which can be frustrating for those accustomed to a faster, more efficient lifestyle. Shops often close for long lunch breaks and many businesses shut down completely in August for the traditional summer holiday. Understanding and adapting to French etiquette and social norms can also be a challenge. For instance, the French place a high value on privacy and may come across as reserved or aloof to newcomers. They also have specific rules about when and how to greet people, which can be confusing for expats. The bureaucracy in France is notoriously complex and can be a major hurdle for expats trying to navigate things like housing, healthcare, and taxes. The paperwork can be overwhelming and the processes can be slow and complicated. Lastly, while the French are known for their culinary prowess, expats may find the local diet challenging. The French eat a lot of bread, cheese, and wine, and meals tend to be long, leisurely affairs. This can be difficult for those who are used to a different diet or a faster pace of eating," explained one expat living in Aix-en-Provence , France.
Connect
We are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
We are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Aix-en-Provence?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Aix-en-Provence?
- Will I be able to find a job in Aix-en-Provence?
- What is life like in Aix-en-Provence?
- What do expats in Aix-en-Provence appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Aix-en-Provence?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Aix-en-Provence accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Aix-en-Provence like?
- What are healthcare services like in Aix-en-Provence?
- What are medical services in Aix-en-Provence like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Aix-en-Provence?
- What are emergency services like in Aix-en-Provence?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Aix-en-Provence?
- How are local medical facilities in Aix-en-Provence?
- As a foreigner living in Aix-en-Provence, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Aix-en-Provence, newcomers to Aix-en-Provence would love to hear your answer to this question.