As you will notice right away, life in Paris is different from life in the US Some differences are subtle, such as the sound of the telephone ringing, while other changes will be more striking. Most things look, sound and smell differently. The sooner you begin to accustom yourself to the French lifestyle, the sooner you will feel comfortable in your new environment. Discovering these differences is one of the joys of a European adventure. You will learn to appreciate the French way of doing things, and before you know it, you’ll fit right in! By experiencing life in France, you will gain a much greater understanding of the French and their culture, as well as a new outlook on your own American heritage.

HOW WILL I IMPROVE MY FRENCH?
Perhaps the most gratifying part of living in France will be the thrill of learning to communicate in another language. The ability to comprehend ordinary speech and participate in conversations is usually the main goal of students going to France. The entire country will, in a sense, serve as a classroom and you will learn from the people you see and interact with each day. You will find that most French people will appreciate your efforts to speak their language. The formal language courses you take will deepen your understanding of what you hear, see, and read around you and teach you various strategies for communicating with others. You have chosen the absolute best way to really learn a language...living it! Félicitations!

Montmartre - This area of Paris has perfect people-watching cafes and a perpetual artist's market.

bonjour ... good morning/day

comment ça va?... How’s it going?

bonne journée ... Have a good day

bonsoir ... good evening

bonne soirée ... Have a good night

bonne nuit ... good night

au revoir ... goodbye

où se trouve le/la...? ... Where is?

comprennez vous? ... Do you understand?

je ne comprends pas... I don’t understand.

je voudrais... I would like...

c’est important/urgent. ... It’s important/urgent.