Moving to France sounds idyllic—baguettes, sunsets over the Seine, and leisurely café chats. But for Krystal, an American expat and memoir author, the early days were anything but picture-perfect. In a recent YouTube interview, she shared the real story of her Parisian adventure—one that began with culture shock and language struggles but evolved into personal growth, resilience, and ultimately, belonging.
“I Hated It at First”: From Culture Shock to Confidence
Krystal didn’t move to Paris with stars in her eyes—she came for a change. At 26, she left behind a thriving photography career in Washington, D.C., seeking adventure abroad. With no French, no friends, and no plan beyond a one-year stint as an au pair, she dove into the deep end of French life.
It wasn’t love at first sight. “I hated living here in the beginning,” she admitted. From small but strict cultural norms—like always saying “bonjour” when entering a room—to being yelled at by her building manager in French, everything felt cold, unfamiliar, and isolating. “No one says hi in the States, but here, if you don’t, people think you’re rude.”
Her first job? Caring for four young French children, including a baby. With zero French and a household that spoke no English, communication was a daily challenge. But over time, the chaos became confidence. Her first “win” came when she understood a scolding in French—and felt proud.
These early struggles are what make her story resonate. For any expat feeling lost in translation, Krystal’s honesty is a reminder that the awkward, uncomfortable moments are part of the journey—and they do get better.
Building a Life in France: Year Three Was the Turning Point
Krystal always planned to stay one year. But as that year passed, so did the certainty of returning home. By year two, she started finding her feet—learning the language, meeting people, discovering work that inspired her. “It’s all about time,” she said. “You just need time for it to stop feeling temporary.”
The true turning point came in year three. That’s when Paris stopped being a dream and started becoming home. She wasn’t just surviving anymore—she was thriving. “I started to feel like I was living, not visiting.”
She built friendships, improved her French, and began establishing roots. In that transformation, she found something deeper than just a change of address: growth. “Paris is where I’ve grown the most as a person,” she shared. “It ripped me up before it rebuilt me.”
She also wrote a memoir about her experience, Paris: A Life Less Ordinary, which captures the chaos, the triumphs, and the sheer absurdity of adapting to French life. From navigating French bureaucracy to learning to love the small rituals—like saying hello to strangers—Krystal’s path is one many expats will recognise.
For anyone struggling through their first year abroad, she offers reassurance: the hard parts eventually fade, and the city that once felt foreign can become yours—one awkward moment at a time.
Krystal’s Advice to Future Expats in France
Now firmly rooted in Paris, Krystal’s advice to aspiring expats is simple, but powerful: be patient. “French culture is different, and that’s okay,” she said. The early challenges can feel like personal attacks, especially when you don’t understand the language or the rules. But over time, they become part of your growth.
She urges newcomers not to take things personally. French directness isn’t rudeness—it’s just cultural. “Give it time. Everything changes with time.” Learning the language, even at a basic level, goes a long way toward feeling connected and less isolated.
She also reminds future expats that it’s okay to miss home—and that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Missing the U.S. didn’t mean she didn’t love France. “Paris isn’t perfect, but it’s where I found myself,” she explained.
And in one of the lightest moments of the interview, Krystal was asked to name the most overrated Parisian landmark. Her answer? Just a dramatic, laughing “Bye!” She didn’t name names—but maybe the Eiffel Tower should brace itself.
Krystal’s journey, from total outsider to integrated local, is both inspiring and grounded in reality. If you’re dreaming of making the leap to France, her story is proof that the path might be messy—but it can lead to something extraordinary.
The Takeaway: Paris Might Rip You Apart… Before It Builds You Back Up
Krystal summed it up perfectly: “Paris ripped me to shreds—before it rebuilt me.”
For anyone considering a move to France, Krystal’s story is both a warning and an inspiration. Yes, it’s hard. Yes, it’s messy. But if you stick with it, learn the language, and stay open, Paris just might become your greatest teacher.
Watch the Full Interview
Catch the full conversation with Krystal on our YouTube channel, where we dig even deeper into her ups and downs in France. It’s a must-watch for anyone thinking of moving to Paris—or anywhere in France!
🎥 Watch the full interview here