We have left France. Even though I think quoting Nelson from the Simpsons makes for a funny title to this post I must admit none of the French stereotypes ever really played out. There were a couple very funky smelling train cars but I really only got a bad whiff of one person during our stay there. Granted, our suburban location didn’t really facilitate mingling with the locals. I initially thought our location would have compounded any communication or nationality problems because of the scarcity of tourists but people were quietly tolerant of our English speaking ways.
I did really enjoy the bread as everyone predicted and I do now eat moldy cheese (if it’s supposed to be moldy). We tried a fair amount of wine but I still never figured it out and it tastes the same to me as back home. I was amazed by the patience of customers at the grocery stores who just accepted that a trip to pick up some food would involve a half hour wait in the checkout line. Surprisingly, (and thankfully) that patience also carried over to the roads where horns are rarely used and people were generally very defensive drivers. Parking was predictably difficult but simply stopping in a lane and turning on the hazards will buy you a free half hour. If you do opt for parking illegally you will only be fined 11 Euro or, in the case of Mike the co-worker, simply be towed a block or two down the street to where you should be.
Public transportation is great in the city and I am proud to say we hit the RER, Metro, and the bus system. However, the local bus service left a lot to be desired in Montesson. Aside from the erratic bus schedule the union would strike regularly without notice and just leave a bunch of old ladies sitting there in the cold. I think the strikes were worse than normal while we were there because the whole 35 hour work week laws were a hot topic and were being debated in Parliament.
The coolest thing I found about France is the liberal use of the term Voila (wa la). I guess it translates to ‘there it is’ but it is more like the Swiss Army knife of any verbal exchange. One time I just stood in a café and said voila over and over until I was served a sandwich. I now understand why magicians use it a lot.
I would love to go back to Paris in the spring or summer to see it bursting with people. I don’t normally enjoy crowds but that seems like it would be a cool experience.
So, we are here in Zurich. Look for an update soon about our trip here and our temporary housing.
Voila!! Guess it's Springtime in Paris for the Newlyweds! As for the odor, I say it's the moldy cheese but NEVER would it be the wine!