Conversations with Myself

Tuesday

23

September 2014

What I miss – (France and South Africa)

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Hello Lovelies!

We are back in France and soaking up the last days of summer.  I hope to be back in my routine this week, continue with Europe trip recaps and make time to read some books.

South Africa is my home country and I am an expat in France.  I have embraced expat life so much that when I am in SA I miss France and vice versa.  Here are some of the things I miss most when I am in SA or when I am in France.

Long summer days in France

When I am in SA, I definitely miss the long summer days in France.  Its autumn in France, the sun now set at 19:30 when compared to summer time when it was setting at 10pm.

In SA at 6:00pm it is almost dark. 

Happy faces in Mzantsi

I knew I was in SA the moment I stepped out of the plane.  You just cant compare the friendliness of people in SA with France, France come way behind.  From the guy at security control desk right to the lady cleaning toilets, its all smiles in SA.  Its a culture of ‘ubuntu’, no nation can compete.

Croissant in France

By now everyone is aware of my obsession with French croissant.  After a week in SA I was craving croissant and went straight to Woolies to buy them.  I felt like slapping someone because they were just not hitting the craving spot.  I used to think that Woolies croissant are the best up until I tasted the very best in France.  It is true people, French croissant are the best.  I swore to myself that I will buy myself two fresh croissant when I step out of the plane in Paris. And I did.

Dumplings in SA.

Have you eaten dumplings in SA?.  They are mouth-watering and addictive.  Often cooked on beef stew .  Restaurants that serve this dish are rare, for you to eat mouth-watering dumplings you should have an SA friend.  I must say not everyone in SA can make good dumplings.  I am one of the expert in cooking dumplings.  Yes, I am not even doubting my skills in that dish. 

I visited my sister and she served me warm beef-dumplings.  They were amazing and I asked for some to carry home.  I selfishly refused to share with anyone at home.  Sorry Babalwa (my niece). Don’t let my love of dumplings separate us?  ha!

Looking good in France

Is it safe to say I missed looking good ALL THE TIME when I was in SA!  Let me explain, in Tours where I stay, running shoes and sweat pants are reserved for gym and only gym. If you need something urgently from the supermarket, don’t you dare think that a sweat pant and a hoodie will do.  If you dare, brace yourself for uncomfortable glares. This is France people, beauty and fashion bar is higher.  

That’s all from me, hope your day was as good as mine.

Take care,
Nez