Why France is Everything it’s Cracked Up to Be

France, much like any other country, has its upsides and its downsides. However, in this article, I will be discussing a few reasons that Maria and I consider France a great place to be! Whether your staying for a short-term visit or a long-term sojourn, France’s positives are abundant – leaving us with the conclusion that the country is, indeed, everything it is cracked up to be!

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Education

From the point of view of two Americans, we love the fact that France affords its citizens, and even foreigners, the gift of accessible public education. Public schooling in both France and the United States is, for all intents and purposes, free. Once a student begins to consider higher education, however, the difference between the two countries becomes very clear. Comparatively, higher education in France is very affordable. This is because the government takes on much of the financial burden so that it does not fall on the individual to pay the real cost of tuition, fees, housing, and more. This is not to say that the service of higher education is literally free – the cost is simply dispersed through a system of taxation and state involvement rather than falling on the individual student to pay in full.

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Civicism & Solidarity

France puts a large emphasis on being a “good citizen.” This is, of course, not to say that France is a utopian land where all citizens are righteous, honest, and upstanding. However, as teachers in schools with the Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF), Maria and I were able to see examples of the importance that civisme has in French life. For example, at a young age, children participate in national campaigns pursued by l’Éducation nationale, such as the « non au harcèlement » or the “say no to bullying” campaign at school. Another way that we were able to see France’s civicism in action was through the outbreak of COVID-19. Generally, people were compliant with governmental restrictions and mandates, and, regardless of personal beliefs, were interested in protecting their loved ones and fellow citizens by “flattening the curve.” There was a lot of support for essential workers and the outcome for France has been relatively positive – especially when compared to the United States.

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Healthcare

Much like public education in France, there is also a system of public healthcare. While the French pay higher taxes than their American counterparts, some of this money goes into ensuring that healthcare costs don’t put French people in crippling debt and financial ruin. With sécurité sociale, France’s healthcare system, citizens and foreigners alike can be reimbursed up to 70% of the cost of care. Reimbursement percentages fluctuate based on the services provided, but many needs, such as normal check-ups, surgeries, prescriptions, ocular care, dental care, and even transport costs to and from appointments, can be reimbursed.

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Architecture & Layout

Walking through a town, city, or village in France is an awesome experience. There is just something special about passing by a cathedral built in the 13th century on your way to pick up some groceries, or hanging out in a true city center where people congregate, eat at cafés, ride bikes, shop, and spend time together. France’s architecture and layout are both practical and pleasing to the eye. Although it may seem negligible, we find that it improves our quality of life to be able to look at beautiful things as we carry on through daily life.

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Easy-Going Culture

French has one of the world’s most iconic cultures, and there is a reason for it! The French are known for enjoying life just a little more than others. Sure, they still go to work and pay bills, but, when it comes to the more pleasant things that life has to offer, the French hold on tight. This explains their 35-hour work weeks, ample paid vacation time, parental leave, youth discounts, and more benefits to which the French are entitled.

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History

Another interesting thing about France is its history! The country is so old that it would take a lifetime, maybe more, to discover all of its historical significance. Famous wars, kings, writers, artists and more abound in French history. In our opinion, the plethora of history in France informs some of the most wonderful aspects of French life and gives France some of the world’s greatest museums, literature, art, and traditions!

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As stated before, France has a long way to go to reach perfection. However, the upsides of living in or visiting France are numerous! France is truly everything it’s cracked up to be and more. Leave us a comment below telling us what you like most about France.

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