Becoming a French Citizen and Fitting in Overseas With Jay Swanson of Paris in My Pocket

Learn from US expat, Jay Swanson, about expat culture, becoming a French citizen, and fitting in abroad. Jay is a video creator and writer who’s been living in France for more than 7 years and recently got his dual French citizenship. Hooray Jay!

Jay is also the creator of Paris In My Pocket, an expertly curated online travel guide for anyone looking to discover Paris like a local. It contains the best bars, restaurants, and hidden gems in the city of lights!

Tune in for a gripping conversation about the dark side of expat life, the challenges of learning a new culture (especially French culture), and the best ways to experience Paris like a local. This episode also offers some incredible advice that may help you find your path in the expat way of life.

Special Offers:

• Use code NOMADS15 to get 15% off the Paris In Your Pocket Guide
• Get 2 free weeks of therapy with BetterHelp
• Save up to 80% on domestic and international flights with FareDrop
• Check out World Nomads Travel Insurance
• Become a Patron for $5/month

Topics Discussed:

• Traveling to and living in Paris.
• The reality of learning a new language.
• The most important French word foreigners should know.
• Jay’s journey from film school to Mercy Ships to moving to France.
• Culture shock and adaptation.
• Pros and cons of the “expat bubble”.
• Fitting in and overcoming loneliness while living in new places.
• The challenges of leaving your home country and learning a new culture.
• The dark side of expat life.
• Dating as an expat in France.
• Paris, France travel tips.

Questions Answered:

• How long does it take to get citizenship in France?
• What are the citizenship requirements in France?
• How did you learn French at a young age?
• How does travel help you get to know yourself better?
• What are common characteristics in expats - the good, the bad, and the ugly?
• What are expats running from?
• Is there a dark side to being an expat?
• What’s your favorite neighborhood in Paris?
• What are the best restaurants and cafes in Paris?
• What’s your daily routine living in Paris?
• What’s the most underrated experience in Paris?
• What are the most overrated places in Paris?
• What is your favorite day trip outside of Paris?

Episode Resources: 

• Mercy Ships

Related Podcasts:

• Ep 116: 7 Reasons Why I’ll Never Renounce My US Citizenship
• Ep 194: Learning Languages Faster and Coping with Culture Shock in Colombia
• Ep 220: Living Like a Local in France & Italy: Language, Lifestyle, Cost of Living, and More
• Ep 252: Female Solo Traveler Finds Freedom in Paris and the Digital Nomad Lifestyle
• Ep 255: Living in Europe, Side Hustle Struggles, and Remote Work Real Talk - Live Call with Kristin
• Ep