Visible Differences: Paris, France (BDZ)

As I imagined it would be, everyday life moves much faster here in Paris than it does back in Meadville.  I remember when I first arrived here, I walked much slower than everyone else.  I didn't really know where I was going and also I wanted to take in the sights and sounds that are Paris.  Now, after being here for several weeks, it has become routine to see the Eiffel Tower on my walk to class each day, or to run and make it onto the metro before the doors shut.  

First, I will address the clothes and style here in France.  It seems as though black is the unofficial Parisian color, with most people wearing black coats, shirts, pants, shoes, scarves, you name it.  Also, people are very well dressed here, with well-fitting and nicer clothes.  You could say it's a bit of a change from the hoodie and sweatpants culture that seems to exist across American universities.  Second, transportation is very different here as well.  Many people do not drive cars, as it costs over 1000 euros to obtain a driver's license in France.  Instead, one can buy a Navigo card for Paris, which allows metro, tram, and bus use for only 70 euros per month.  It's quite a deal, especially when many Parisians may use all three services in only 1 day.  Third, grocery shopping is different here than in the US.  While some supermarkets like Carrefour and Monoprix might have everything you need, there are many specialty stores that only bake bread or have produce for example, that will be at a much higher quality than the grocery stores.

In terms of the culture shock graph, I feel as though I've been at the top of the graph for most of the trip; I feel quite integrated here and feel like I fit in well here with Parisian locals, and their culture.