Last Thursday I came to the realization that I only had 10 days left in Paris but so many things left to do. I made a list of everything I still wanted to do before I left Paris. It seemed staggering based on the little time I have left and that only 3 of those days are weekend days. This weekend turned out to be a great weekend to tackle my list. It’s finally stopped raining in Paris and the weather was absolutely perfect for sight-seeing—about 70 degrees a...

I’ve been amused and/or surprised by some of the differences between France and America. Here are a few things I’ve learned: The French don’t use top sheets. I thought I was going crazy my first day in Paris when I couldn’t find a top sheet in the huge armoire of linens. But, my coworker confirmed it—they just don’t use them. Elevator and subway doors close even if something’s in the way. You know how if the elevator is closing, you can ...

Today I found out the Paris office’s hidden secret: the last Friday of every month, instead of working, my coworkers go to a bar, drink espressos and talk about football (that’s soccer for you Yanks). I kid. This is not the case and is exactly what Manoela and Hans didn’t want me to tell the Chicago office. When I got to work, the light in the lobby was off. I thought “that’s odd,” but proceeded hi-ho-ing up to my office. There was no one around and...

…do as the Parisians do and try not to be an “Ugly American”. Or at least that’s what I’m trying to do. I have really tried not to be the tourist that expects the host country to cater to her. As part of this endeavor, I have been trying to use the little French I know whenever I can. The only problem is, when I’m struggling to say something in French, many people have switched over to English. This is helpful, but not helpful in my goal to learn mo...

I made it to the left side of the bank for the first time last week! I made my maiden voyage to go see the Eiffel tower. After seeing it in person, I understand why it’s so iconic. It’s not really the tower by itself that is so amazing, but the setting of the tower—it is right in the heart of Paris next to the Seine River and has a large park in front of it. People were spread all over the park, having picnics and drinking wine. I wish Kim and I had thoug...