Was the name of the ex-pat fair that took place today at the Carousel du Louvre. It was much smaller than I expected, with a selection of booths ranging from banks and mortgage companies to a host of real estate agencies geared toward foreigners. There was a democrats abroad table, with the republicans just two booths down. Volvo was represented for whatever reason, and there was a guy there promoting the culture of Brittany. All in all an odd mix, and a very commercial backdrop. Everyone was selling something, and even those who seemed to be promoting worthy causes, groups or networks seemed more interested in my inscription fees than in my personal story or particular needs.
The one group that did seem genuine was represented by a young couple from South Carolina (via New York, via other places) who have been here for four years now. The group is called Meetup, and apparently they exist all over the world. There is no real membership but is made up by groups of people sharing similar interests. Could be anything: dogs, knitting, spanish, rugby… The group leaders then organize lunches, or evenings out, I don’t know what all, will have to check it out.
Overall I had a good time and talked to a lot of people, but deep down had had greater expectations. I went looking for some familiarity and with the hopes of meeting interesting people, and left mostly with a stack of brochures.
At least I registered to vote.
I wonder if there is other sort of fair or expo organised around the idea of expats. It seems like it’s such a niche market!
But I do love the expatica slogan : I’m only really a tourist when I see the eiffel tower lit up at night – then I’m clapping my hands with delight
Was it Andy and his wife from the meet up group? They are very nice. I used to attend that group when I first moved to Paris. It was really fun group. Speaking of meetup, my friend Sarah and I have a English speaking knitting group on meet up that meets in Paris on Weds nights. If you’re ever interested, come and join us!
yeah, i think it was Andy…i haven’t sorted through my biz cards and pamphlets yet…bad me.
i’ve seen the Knots blog and i love it! but i don’t knit. not yet anyhow
just to make things really confusing, i’ve started taking spanish lessons!
I’m sure there is a meet up for that! There is a meet up for everything.
Yay for getting your comments back on line.