Dispatches from A Broad

The Dangerous Spreadsheet

It started innocent enough - noodling some basic budget scenarios. Reader, I ended up with seventeen tabs.

The Great Purge

Sell it, ship it, or store (who knew storage units could cost more per month than a studio apt.)

Tip: Find somewhere to actually live in Paris for that first month or two.

Boots Airport Audition

He had to prove to the ticket agent he could twirl in his crate without crouching. He was not amused. I was not amused. The agent was amused enough for all three of us.

Tip: If you bring your dog to Europe be completely prepared - from the requisite USDA certificate to the potential need for sleeping aids - not just yours, the dog's.

Ground Zero: Paris

Made it. Celebrated our first day. Slept the second. Panicked the third.

Tip: Hit the ground running to find that dream apartment. And even if you want to buy something rent the first year; you'll thank yourself.

Living the (tear-stained) dream

Nobody stops you at the border and asks if you're planning to stay longer than 90 days. You can just show up and start living like a Parisian. I did. It was wonderful. Until it wasn't.

Tip: After 90 days without a Visa you're officially illegal in France. I've written a guide to prevent that - and to get it sorted fast if you've already blown past the deadline.