The France riots in the suburbs of Paris, France spread throughout France and caused a curfew to be enforced for over two months from October 2005.There were images of cars burning in the international newspapers and newscasts everyday for weeks.It was an interesting and sometimes unnerving time to be living in France. My car wasn't burned, but I was very aware of the mounting frustrations and distrust between the French haves and have-nots.As a foreigner in France, you need to know that for so many French people you will be resented as a presumed rich foreigner.
This seems to be the okay for French people of all backgrounds (not just the angry poor people) to charge you a "special" higher price for goods (including houses) or services, cheat you, and pretend not to notice when others are cheating you.So, what are the 3 ways the France riots still affect foreigners in France? You need to know that 1. France is a land of equality for all French men. Read: If you are not French, then it is not equal for you.
This goes for rich foreigners and poor people who are not originally of French descent.2. Cars are burned routinely everyday all over France - riots or none. Park accordingly.3. Expect French people to treat you differently and for lots of them (more than you would like to think) to cheat you whenever possible.
What can you do about this inequality that triggered the France riots and accounts for these problems?.Again, 3 things:.1. Do your homework so that you know the going rate and true market value for goods and services.2. Take full advantage of available resources, such as http://www.
FrenchPropertyReport.com.3. Network with other expats by using the many forums, such as http://www.SouthernFrenchAccents.
com/forums, and attending meetings of expat groups in France.
.Liesa Blond is an American who has lived in France for the past six years. She has helped thousands of English-speakers from all over the world to also move to France, either permanently or for sabbatical. She is the publisher of several books and websites on the subject. Sign up now for her free weekly newsletter on the subject of moving to and living in France by going to http://www.France-Property-and-Life.com.
By: Liesa Blond
