Destination...Paris

Préparation

If planning to move to Paris, such as myself, lots of planning and preparation is necessary.

I had already begun my research and making sure I had the information I needed.

Th websites (http://www.intransit-international.com/home_moving_paris_france.html) (http://www.expatarrivals.com/france/working-in-france), ware proving to be very helpful in providing information that I need. They have lots of information that you can view on their website.

The first thing I feel I need to do is create a 'Moving to Paris' checklist. This way I can stay on track with my goals


1.   Finding a job

•  Without a finding a job, everything else is only research; for me a job is a necessity
•  As a non-European, we are required to have a job secured BEFORE moving to Paris and must establish French residency (carte de séjour).

2.   Renting an apartment

•  For my situation, I felt that a long-term furnished rental would be ideal for me and my kids. At least 1 bathroom, 1-2 bedrooms, internet access and air-conditioning .
• My preferred arrondissements (districts) are Les Halles, Marais or Montmarte, but as long as it is safe, I'm open (ugh, I hate the 7th....so boring).
• Good thing to know, zip code lets you know the district (e.g. 75008 is 8th district, 75015 is 15th district...and so on).

3.   Utilities

•   I'm hoping to find an apartment with utilities included.

4.   Opening a French bank account

5.   Finding a school for my son

•    Since I'm hoping to be in the city center, the schools I'm researching for my son (now 15) are:
•   If none of these schools work, I will do homeschooling.

6.   Medical / Insurance
7.   Transportation plans
8.   Bringing a pet
9.   Continuing French education
10. Adjusting to Parisian life

As I proceed through my checklist, I'll keep you up to date with how things are going.

Cross your fingers for me!!