The photos juxtaposed above are amusing, and extraordinary. Ron found these photos on the site Frenchly (but regrettably I can't find the original source). I have never seen anything that captures, so perfectly, the differences in American and French life. Folks often ask why we moved here–see above for the answer.
Let's break it down a bit–the photos tell a complex story.
France: Let's go get a coffee! In Paris alone, you will have about 13,000 outdoor cafés to choose from. We walk over to one of many near us in Beaune. Love that espresso–a pretty cup and saucer, a little cookie served on the side, we bask in the sun under a parosol, and often friends pass by to chat.
USA: We hit the Starbucks–McDonald's in a pinch–for a styrofoam go-cup to drink in the car. See photo above. I don't know about your town, but in Charleston I'm having trouble coming up with a whole bunch of charming coffee shops with outdoor terraces. Nothing near that 13,000 number!
Slow food in France: Time for lunch! We wander out to an intimate bistro, where we dine and drink for a couple of hours. The working crowd is here too, along we the retired.
Fast food in the USA: the fast food restaurants are everywhere, in town and country and strip malls. Grab lunch and go–maybe eat at your desk or in your car. And the architecture of these places? See photo at top.
France, transport: we walk to get a coffee or a meal, most of the time. Easy because there are so many boulanageries, cafés, bistros.
USA: we get in our car.
Now I know this is a bit unfair. Fast food drive-throughs exist in France, though they are few and far between. And the US has plenty of nice restaurants and coffee shops too, but because the US is more suburban than urban, they usually require a car trip.
In the end, the great French lifestyle is what it's all about. In France, leisure, social and family time are precious. Work, ambition and material goods take a back seat to pleasure and relaxation. They don't have worries about who will pay for their health care or retirement, as their taxes and systems take care of all this for them. They are surrounded by beauty. Could this sociable, active, lower stress lifestyle be why France spends half what the US does on health care, yet the French live longer? I think they're on to something!
So, dear readers, what do you see in these lifestyle photos?
In the COMMENTS: Emily, I got a kick out of hearing that your friend adopted all 5 kittie–je comprend! More in a future post, though, about how to foster without keeping every adorable kitten. Anne Marie, no lapin for me either! Colleen, have a wonderful trip. Tom has just taken a group on a great and impressively thorough tour of Burgundy, I'm glad it was fun!
Favorite READS: Natalia, who always supplies us with the best French related books, has a really good one for us, called The Paris Assignment. Julie makes a great case for reading Long Ago in France, which I will do as I have discovered the delights of our nearby city of Dijon as well. And our reader Anne Marie has just published a book! It's called Being Bunny, and it's about her experience with rabbits as (wonderful!) pets.
And speaking of bunnies, many of you are already familiar with the beautiful artwork and children's books of our loyal reader Colleen Taylor. But did you know she does greeting cards too? There is a selection of beautiful cards, and amazingly you can add a personal note/signature in your own handwriting, all on line! She paints lots of animals, and here is her bunny card. See this card and more here.
42 thoughts on “The Ultimate French Lifestyle Photo? The Winner is…”
Nothing more to say than the photos say it all! Thank you
Nothing more to say than the photos say it all! Thank you
Nothing more to say than the photos say it all! Thank you
Have you ever listed – The Greater Journey, Americans in Paris by David McCullough? Just finishing it and learned – and held onto- so much.
Have you ever listed – The Greater Journey, Americans in Paris by David McCullough? Just finishing it and learned – and held onto- so much.
Have you ever listed – The Greater Journey, Americans in Paris by David McCullough? Just finishing it and learned – and held onto- so much.
Right on again, Lynne! I appreciate more and more the frequent relaxed get-togethers whether they be coffee, apéros, lunches or dinners that can extend to five hours or more. It is all about having a meaningful interaction with your family, neighbors and friends. I am amazed to the extent my village’s mairie sponsors various events throughout the year to bring us all together. Living in France requires some level of social participation. It is expected. I love my privacy, but I don’t object because life is indeed a richer experience and I feel the love and support. I count my blessings.
We missed you in Beaune!
Right on again, Lynne! I appreciate more and more the frequent relaxed get-togethers whether they be coffee, apéros, lunches or dinners that can extend to five hours or more. It is all about having a meaningful interaction with your family, neighbors and friends. I am amazed to the extent my village’s mairie sponsors various events throughout the year to bring us all together. Living in France requires some level of social participation. It is expected. I love my privacy, but I don’t object because life is indeed a richer experience and I feel the love and support. I count my blessings.
We missed you in Beaune!
Right on again, Lynne! I appreciate more and more the frequent relaxed get-togethers whether they be coffee, apéros, lunches or dinners that can extend to five hours or more. It is all about having a meaningful interaction with your family, neighbors and friends. I am amazed to the extent my village’s mairie sponsors various events throughout the year to bring us all together. Living in France requires some level of social participation. It is expected. I love my privacy, but I don’t object because life is indeed a richer experience and I feel the love and support. I count my blessings.
We missed you in Beaune!
Hmm…new lunettes pplease
How did you miss all the American chains here:
Burger King, Starbucks, Subway,KFC, McDonalds,the Pizza chain and that Taco chain.
It infuriates me 😾
Hmm…new lunettes pplease
How did you miss all the American chains here:
Burger King, Starbucks, Subway,KFC, McDonalds,the Pizza chain and that Taco chain.
It infuriates me 😾
Hmm…new lunettes pplease
How did you miss all the American chains here:
Burger King, Starbucks, Subway,KFC, McDonalds,the Pizza chain and that Taco chain.
It infuriates me 😾
After spending a year in the US, one of my French friends explained that she was returning to France, in part, to experience “la douceur de la vie”. I think your photos express that.
After spending a year in the US, one of my French friends explained that she was returning to France, in part, to experience “la douceur de la vie”. I think your photos express that.
After spending a year in the US, one of my French friends explained that she was returning to France, in part, to experience “la douceur de la vie”. I think your photos express that.
Lynne, you have absolutely nailed it! ❤️This is EXACTLY what drove us to buy our little 2nd home in Pommard, way back in 2005. Oh, the small rituals that I have come to love, that slow down my heartbeat, relax my mind, and heighten my senses. The “tradition” of a post-market glass of rosé on Saturday mornings, in a favorite café that looks onto Beaune’s bustling Place de la Halle. As we take a post-lunch stroll, slowing down to enjoy the music of children giggling on Sunday afternoons, as they ride the carousel on Place Carnot. Savoring that first taste of a small scoop of coffee ice cream, with the added crunchy delight of the tiny flecks of coffee beans. Thanks so much for this sweet reminder of why we love La Belle France!
Lynne, you have absolutely nailed it! ❤️This is EXACTLY what drove us to buy our little 2nd home in Pommard, way back in 2005. Oh, the small rituals that I have come to love, that slow down my heartbeat, relax my mind, and heighten my senses. The “tradition” of a post-market glass of rosé on Saturday mornings, in a favorite café that looks onto Beaune’s bustling Place de la Halle. As we take a post-lunch stroll, slowing down to enjoy the music of children giggling on Sunday afternoons, as they ride the carousel on Place Carnot. Savoring that first taste of a small scoop of coffee ice cream, with the added crunchy delight of the tiny flecks of coffee beans. Thanks so much for this sweet reminder of why we love La Belle France!
Lynne, you have absolutely nailed it! ❤️This is EXACTLY what drove us to buy our little 2nd home in Pommard, way back in 2005. Oh, the small rituals that I have come to love, that slow down my heartbeat, relax my mind, and heighten my senses. The “tradition” of a post-market glass of rosé on Saturday mornings, in a favorite café that looks onto Beaune’s bustling Place de la Halle. As we take a post-lunch stroll, slowing down to enjoy the music of children giggling on Sunday afternoons, as they ride the carousel on Place Carnot. Savoring that first taste of a small scoop of coffee ice cream, with the added crunchy delight of the tiny flecks of coffee beans. Thanks so much for this sweet reminder of why we love La Belle France!
I can only say I haven’t been there since 2017 and I miss it terribly! Hoping to visit in 2024.
I can only say I haven’t been there since 2017 and I miss it terribly! Hoping to visit in 2024.
I can only say I haven’t been there since 2017 and I miss it terribly! Hoping to visit in 2024.
Hi dear Lynn,
Wow! I could not agree more!We–and everyone else there around us in our spot in Paris(which I dubbed our personal Shangrila)–took time not only to stop and smell the coffee(and oh!those heavenly croissants!)but each day was a reason to celebrate and appreciate life.Now that we have passed from the troisieme agee into the ancienne one(understatement) it’s even more crystal clear exactly what a gift we were granted.We have kept to our promise of giving unending thanks for this privilege, sunrise to sunset,be it in laughing with delight over our mignon’s antics, the really yummy quiche for lunch–even those adorable little heart shaped sugar cubes that we plunk into our cafe deca–most especially,that we are celebrating all of this together.
And thanks to to Eleanor Roosevelt,too, for her oft repeated quote:Life is a gift;that’s why it’s called the present.(Exactement!)
My book suggestion this time is “A Bakery in Paris”by Aimee Runyan.It is the story of, not only a time span history of a bakery(including some delightful recipes), but includes its people and their lives. I am a new reader of Aime Runyan,but this work captured my imagination and I will look for more of her work.
Also merci(!!) for bringing Jo Anne and Coleen’s beautiful works to our attention!
Hi dear Lynn,
Wow! I could not agree more!We–and everyone else there around us in our spot in Paris(which I dubbed our personal Shangrila)–took time not only to stop and smell the coffee(and oh!those heavenly croissants!)but each day was a reason to celebrate and appreciate life.Now that we have passed from the troisieme agee into the ancienne one(understatement) it’s even more crystal clear exactly what a gift we were granted.We have kept to our promise of giving unending thanks for this privilege, sunrise to sunset,be it in laughing with delight over our mignon’s antics, the really yummy quiche for lunch–even those adorable little heart shaped sugar cubes that we plunk into our cafe deca–most especially,that we are celebrating all of this together.
And thanks to to Eleanor Roosevelt,too, for her oft repeated quote:Life is a gift;that’s why it’s called the present.(Exactement!)
My book suggestion this time is “A Bakery in Paris”by Aimee Runyan.It is the story of, not only a time span history of a bakery(including some delightful recipes), but includes its people and their lives. I am a new reader of Aime Runyan,but this work captured my imagination and I will look for more of her work.
Also merci(!!) for bringing Jo Anne and Coleen’s beautiful works to our attention!
Hi dear Lynn,
Wow! I could not agree more!We–and everyone else there around us in our spot in Paris(which I dubbed our personal Shangrila)–took time not only to stop and smell the coffee(and oh!those heavenly croissants!)but each day was a reason to celebrate and appreciate life.Now that we have passed from the troisieme agee into the ancienne one(understatement) it’s even more crystal clear exactly what a gift we were granted.We have kept to our promise of giving unending thanks for this privilege, sunrise to sunset,be it in laughing with delight over our mignon’s antics, the really yummy quiche for lunch–even those adorable little heart shaped sugar cubes that we plunk into our cafe deca–most especially,that we are celebrating all of this together.
And thanks to to Eleanor Roosevelt,too, for her oft repeated quote:Life is a gift;that’s why it’s called the present.(Exactement!)
My book suggestion this time is “A Bakery in Paris”by Aimee Runyan.It is the story of, not only a time span history of a bakery(including some delightful recipes), but includes its people and their lives. I am a new reader of Aime Runyan,but this work captured my imagination and I will look for more of her work.
Also merci(!!) for bringing Jo Anne and Coleen’s beautiful works to our attention!
Dear Lynn,
Wow is about all I can say about this post. Thank you so very much for the wonderful mention of my card site and me in general. You never cease to amaze me with your kind comments about all that I do. Thank you so much and so appreciate it.
Dear Lynn,
Wow is about all I can say about this post. Thank you so very much for the wonderful mention of my card site and me in general. You never cease to amaze me with your kind comments about all that I do. Thank you so much and so appreciate it.
Dear Lynn,
Wow is about all I can say about this post. Thank you so very much for the wonderful mention of my card site and me in general. You never cease to amaze me with your kind comments about all that I do. Thank you so much and so appreciate it.
I found this same type of relaxing lifestyle in San Miguel de Allende Mexico, and lived there several years. Lots of small, local cafes for coffee and dining, chat, meeting neighbors and enjoying life!
I found this same type of relaxing lifestyle in San Miguel de Allende Mexico, and lived there several years. Lots of small, local cafes for coffee and dining, chat, meeting neighbors and enjoying life!
I found this same type of relaxing lifestyle in San Miguel de Allende Mexico, and lived there several years. Lots of small, local cafes for coffee and dining, chat, meeting neighbors and enjoying life!
Yes. So true. Next week I’ll be heading to Dijon for a dose of Burgundy in autumn. I will head to my favorite salon de the just to get the little cookie more than for the tea. And can’t wait to stop by the sandwich shop for my favorite lunch. Then I’ll stop by the petite Carrefour for my favorite crackers to go with my cheese. Get a baguette as I walk back to my place to make plans for a train trip to another city to meet up with a friend.
I love the slower pace, but just can’t make the full time leap like you two. However, I love having the option to be there for several weeks throughout the year.
Yes. So true. Next week I’ll be heading to Dijon for a dose of Burgundy in autumn. I will head to my favorite salon de the just to get the little cookie more than for the tea. And can’t wait to stop by the sandwich shop for my favorite lunch. Then I’ll stop by the petite Carrefour for my favorite crackers to go with my cheese. Get a baguette as I walk back to my place to make plans for a train trip to another city to meet up with a friend.
I love the slower pace, but just can’t make the full time leap like you two. However, I love having the option to be there for several weeks throughout the year.
Yes. So true. Next week I’ll be heading to Dijon for a dose of Burgundy in autumn. I will head to my favorite salon de the just to get the little cookie more than for the tea. And can’t wait to stop by the sandwich shop for my favorite lunch. Then I’ll stop by the petite Carrefour for my favorite crackers to go with my cheese. Get a baguette as I walk back to my place to make plans for a train trip to another city to meet up with a friend.
I love the slower pace, but just can’t make the full time leap like you two. However, I love having the option to be there for several weeks throughout the year.
Bonjour a tous, I loved your comparisons. We did go to McDonald’s in France mostly because they had the cleanest bathrooms while on the road to some beautiful place in La Belle France. Sourires, Monty
Bonjour a tous, I loved your comparisons. We did go to McDonald’s in France mostly because they had the cleanest bathrooms while on the road to some beautiful place in La Belle France. Sourires, Monty
Bonjour a tous, I loved your comparisons. We did go to McDonald’s in France mostly because they had the cleanest bathrooms while on the road to some beautiful place in La Belle France. Sourires, Monty
Dear Lynn,
I have enjoyed reading your blog for over ten years now and eagerly look forward to receiving one in my inbox. However, I do not find it fair or appropriate when you get political and compare the US to France – from leisure activities, culture, politics and food to city and town life etc. Of course there are differences! That is precisely why people love to travel, not only to France, but all over the world. We Americans (you are still one too!) already know what the differences are and do not need to be reminded of the negative ones from someone who lives part time in both countries. Good for France! I adore France and have lived there twice and visited two other times. I read your blog as a treat to my day; to be uplifted, to reminisce about the lovely aspects of France which you always so eloquently describe and photograph. However, France is not a utopia and has its share of MANY problems – some the same, and some different than the US. In closing I would just like to say that I believe your readers appreciate your commentary on the French lifestyle; if not for a pure escape to imagine living the wonderful life you and Ron live, but as an escape from the relentless politics of the world. Let’s leave politics to the myriad of news analysts, broadcasters, talk shows and newspapers for those that want it. Again, I LOVE your blog and wish you the best! VIVE LA DIFFERENCE!
Dear Lynn,
I have enjoyed reading your blog for over ten years now and eagerly look forward to receiving one in my inbox. However, I do not find it fair or appropriate when you get political and compare the US to France – from leisure activities, culture, politics and food to city and town life etc. Of course there are differences! That is precisely why people love to travel, not only to France, but all over the world. We Americans (you are still one too!) already know what the differences are and do not need to be reminded of the negative ones from someone who lives part time in both countries. Good for France! I adore France and have lived there twice and visited two other times. I read your blog as a treat to my day; to be uplifted, to reminisce about the lovely aspects of France which you always so eloquently describe and photograph. However, France is not a utopia and has its share of MANY problems – some the same, and some different than the US. In closing I would just like to say that I believe your readers appreciate your commentary on the French lifestyle; if not for a pure escape to imagine living the wonderful life you and Ron live, but as an escape from the relentless politics of the world. Let’s leave politics to the myriad of news analysts, broadcasters, talk shows and newspapers for those that want it. Again, I LOVE your blog and wish you the best! VIVE LA DIFFERENCE!
Dear Lynn,
I have enjoyed reading your blog for over ten years now and eagerly look forward to receiving one in my inbox. However, I do not find it fair or appropriate when you get political and compare the US to France – from leisure activities, culture, politics and food to city and town life etc. Of course there are differences! That is precisely why people love to travel, not only to France, but all over the world. We Americans (you are still one too!) already know what the differences are and do not need to be reminded of the negative ones from someone who lives part time in both countries. Good for France! I adore France and have lived there twice and visited two other times. I read your blog as a treat to my day; to be uplifted, to reminisce about the lovely aspects of France which you always so eloquently describe and photograph. However, France is not a utopia and has its share of MANY problems – some the same, and some different than the US. In closing I would just like to say that I believe your readers appreciate your commentary on the French lifestyle; if not for a pure escape to imagine living the wonderful life you and Ron live, but as an escape from the relentless politics of the world. Let’s leave politics to the myriad of news analysts, broadcasters, talk shows and newspapers for those that want it. Again, I LOVE your blog and wish you the best! VIVE LA DIFFERENCE!
In center city Philadelphia and in many of its surrounding suburbs there is a proliferation of independent cafes , restaurants and coffee cafes where you can sit outside and dine or have a coffee with a pastry or other breakfast item. Also unique interiors and dining experiences. While not Paris, bien sûr, I have sat for 2-3 hours with friends chatting over a cup of coffee and enjoying the surroundings and weather.
In center city Philadelphia and in many of its surrounding suburbs there is a proliferation of independent cafes , restaurants and coffee cafes where you can sit outside and dine or have a coffee with a pastry or other breakfast item. Also unique interiors and dining experiences. While not Paris, bien sûr, I have sat for 2-3 hours with friends chatting over a cup of coffee and enjoying the surroundings and weather.
In center city Philadelphia and in many of its surrounding suburbs there is a proliferation of independent cafes , restaurants and coffee cafes where you can sit outside and dine or have a coffee with a pastry or other breakfast item. Also unique interiors and dining experiences. While not Paris, bien sûr, I have sat for 2-3 hours with friends chatting over a cup of coffee and enjoying the surroundings and weather.