Is Paris Always a Good Idea?

My 3 year journey in Paris is coming to an end as of this writing. With the current climate of the US, I've been asked more than ever whether I would recommend moving to Europe. I never have a good answer to this question.

If you're like me, you might find the move worth it, but I'd be remiss to not mention that my time here was an enormous privilege. I quit my cushy tech job in the US during the pandemic. My savings from that job allowed me to live in Paris without working for my entire stay. I got to learn French, party, go on alpine adventures, write, play guitar, film some movies. I found in Paris an extraordinary community of artists, musicians, writers, and hustlers, and I explored a good chunk of the world outside of the Hexagon.

But for every expat I've seen find their groove, 2 or 3 more pack up and leave with nothing but a handful of depression. Europe isn't an anxiety antidote for whatever's going on in the States. The far right is on the rise here too, immigration is only getting more restrictive, and the "fresh start" fantasy dies the moment you have to prepare your first dossier.

Obviously, if you're facing genuine harm at the hands of the new government, come on over! In fact, message me, and I'll do my best to introduce you to people I know and trust that could help. However, if you're feeling restless/anxious in the U.S., you should ask yourself if your day-to-day life has meaningfully changed. Maybe you're morally opposed to this government -- to the extent you're considering voting with your feet.

Can you take a massive pay cut, miss weddings and birthdays, learn a new language, and completely uproot your family? All in the context of a political climate that is trending towards that of the U.S.? My hunch for most of you is that when the rubber meets the road, the answer is no.

If you do decide Paris is a good idea, know your chances are much better if you work in tourism, fashion, marketing, or the creative arts. Regardless of your industry, the folks I've seen thrive here didn't wait for the city to hand them a new life. They built it friend by friend, hustle by hustle. It's a years-long effort. Just know that finding your footing here will take until at least the end of this administration.