What Is a VLS-TS? The VLS-TS or Visa de Long Séjour – Valant Titre de Séjour is a special long-stay visa for those visiting France for over 90 days who fulfill specific criteria (such as being students, interns, spouses, etc.). The visa also acts as a temporary residence permit, meaning that applicants do not need…
Month: October 2020
An Atypical Weekend in the Valley of the Loire
This is a trip I took with my husband who decided to book us a romantic and relaxing weekend getaway. I was visiting him briefly from the UK in June of 2019 and I thought it would be apropos to share this experience here, even though it took place some time ago. I kept nagging…
Getting Married in France (Twice!)
If you have read the about page you are aware that I have gotten married in France twice (to the same person). The reason for this being is that marriage can only be officiated legally in France by the government since the country is laic, meaning there is a firm separation of church and state….
The Shockingly Dark History of the Abbey of Clairvaux
Last night as I watched The Green Mile with my husband, I was reminded of a particularly moving visit we had taken to the Abbey of Clairvaux in July. What could a 12th century abbey and The Green Mile have in common? You’re about to find out. Expectation VS Reality To be honest, I had…
When Someone Says “France:” The Most Popular Stereotypes About France Debunked
Today I wanted to discuss some things that are not necessarily untruths about France, but are characteristic tropes of French culture and France itself. The stereotypes or cliches I have collected and discussed below were retrieved by posing the question “what comes to mind when you hear the word ‘France’?” on several social media platforms….
How to Get Married in France to a French National as a U.S. Citizen
Getting Married in France is Difficult But don’t turn away just yet, I am here to help! Marriage can only be officiated legally in France by the government since the country is laic, meaning there is a firm separation of church and state. Therefore, in order to have a more “traditional” wedding (with a religious…