Guiding Family Life in France

Genuine experiences, candid reviews, and practical tips for expat families

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Louis Martin - Expat family life guide in France Photo: Blue Shore Trail

Hey, I'm Louis

Relocating to Paris in France proved a genuine reset for our family. Fresh routines, new expectations, and plenty of uncertainties — we had to work things out the hard way.

In time we discovered that France diverges quite a bit from the stereotypes. Family spaces can be wonderfully welcoming — but only if you understand how things operate and where to head.

This site is the resource I wish we'd had before moving: practical tips, candid notes, and small details that simplify daily life for families living abroad.

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What We’ve Discovered So Far

These aren’t mere guides — they’re glimpses of everyday family life in France: what aided us, what surprised us, and what we’d change next time.

Family-friendly shopping and daily life in France Photo: Blue Shore Trail
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Shopping & Lifestyle

Family Areas in Malls: What Really Works

What to expect when shopping with children, how family zones are arranged, and the small details that save time (and reduce stress) in Paris.

Approx. 12 min read Updated: January 2025
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Dining out as an expat family in France Photo: Blue Shore Trail
Food & Dining

Eating Out with Kids: Our Go-To Places

What “family-friendly” truly signifies locally, how to pick the right spot, and practical tips for smoother meals with children.

Approx. 10 min read Updated: February 2025
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Family & Education

Schools for Expat Families: How to Choose

A practical method for narrowing down schools, which questions matter most, and how to steer clear of common mistakes families make after moving to France.

Approx. 11 min read Updated: February 2025
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School choices for expat families in Paris, France Photo: Blue Shore Trail

Helpful Tips I Wish I Had Known Sooner

  • Local routines matter: Local routines matter: Many places stick to daily schedules that can influence shopping, dining, and appointments — plan ahead to dodge last-minute stress.
  • Peak hours surprise newcomers: Peak hours catch newcomers off guard: Weekends and evenings fill up quickly. For quieter outings, visit earlier in the day.
  • Family areas help a lot: Family zones really help: When available, they usually offer more comfort, more room for children, and a smoother overall experience.
  • Keep one reliable contact: Have a single dependable contact: for fast assistance or directions, save this number: +33 1 40 50 60 70.
Everyday city life for expat families in France Photo: Blue Shore Trail