Making friends is something you've been doing for a while. We all remember going to school for the first time with wide eyes and a search for a new friend. Well..perhaps you don't remember but anyway, the point is, whether you're an extrovert or introvert, you instinctively have the need to socialize.
Also, whether you're in Paris, New York, or ...Tokyo, the need remains and the search is never-ending. If you honestly hate socializing with other humans there is no need to read on, I'm only talking about us normal people.
The easiest way to make friends is in places where you can find lots of people that are also looking to find friends. Usually, places like school and/or other organized activities are filled with people that are eager to click with you....(don't worry, I am going somewhere with this). So, if you're coming to Paris with the intention of taking some sort of classes or going to acitivities, I applaud you-- you're taking a rewardable step towards new-found friendships.
Yep, that's really all the advice I have on that topic. If you're coming to Paris with zero connections, I recommend taking a class (c'mon, you definitely need to take French lessons...I know you do) or signing up for some sort of activity..like photography, pottery, yoga? There's tons of options with bi-lingual teachers so you don't have to dive into photography en français.
I met my friends through a French class. We are all au pairs and this language center had classes that were scheduled so that it would be possible for an au pair to go (mornings, and no class Wednesday.. because, in case you DON'T know, kids in France don't go to school on Wednesdays). My other friend met a few girls at a theatre group that she signed up for. And from there, it's easy to meet their friends, etc...
The best part about making friends abroad is the mix you get. I've met people from Ireland, England, Israel, Italy, Spain, Morocco, Mexico, Lebanon, and China. Of course, not everyone sticks. Sometimes keeping in touch doesn't work out or they're just traveling through and they leave you forever.
If you're ballsy enough to just go out and meet people at a bar..there are plenty of facebook groups and websites that deal with providing events for expats/international young people to meet up. I've actually been to one or two (well, I was with friends...so..that's cheating) and they're very entertaining. Everyone is eager to talk and exchange stories at these little meetings, so don't be shy.
As of right now, I have a nice little group of friends and it was very easy to make friends. Just a funny little side note though: I'm just realizing this..but I have no French girl friends. How odd.
well then...'til later!
bisous xoxox
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