Sorry that it has taken me
so long to get back to you. Thank you for your prompt reply. I'm glad
you enjoyed the report. The Rhone-Alps region is very beautiful. From
here in Lyon, I can see the Alps on a clear day. It is amazing! Lyon
is the second largest city in France, and it has so much history as
with most of Europe. The advantage of living in a big city is the massive
transportation systems. Being able to get anywhere is great especially
because I do not have a car. The University is easily accessible for
those interested in taking courses. Lyon is a cheaper alternative to
Paris. I highly recommend Lyon to those who are looking to live in a
bit city. It is surrounded by unique, beautiful towns. It is very easy
to get away if needed.
The SNCF train system is very practical. In fact, I bought a carte 12-25
(for ages 12 to 25) for 45 US dollars. It gives me a 25-50% discount
on train tickets. It is well worth the money! I've saved well over 45
dollars. I am definitely benefiting from the proximity of other countries.
Two major travel tips would be: 1.buy a euro rail pass from council
travel (1-800-2Council), or a youth card like the carte 12-25 to save
money; 2. and invest in the "Let's Go3 travel books. You can purchase
one specific for a country or one for Europe. They tell you everything
you need to know from restaurants to lodging.
To answer your question,
yes I think that my French has improved. My vocabulary and grammar are
much better. Verbally, I am able to express myself better than I ever
could. Of course, I have my bad days. Going back to Lyon, it is a very
diverse city. There are many people of different nationalities. I would
say that the majority of the immigrants are Arab, North Africans.
What I find most interesting about being an African-American here in
France is that I am often asked what are my origins, in Africa specifically.
All of the French-Africans I have met know from which country specifically
in Africa their family is from. A lot of them themselves were born in
Africa. Their ties are much closer to their roots than mine. I tell
them that my history is more complicated with slavery having occurred.
I've been told more than once that Arab people are usually discriminated
against. Lyon is definitely more integrated than Milwaukee. I see many
interracial couples and groups of friends. I have learned that race
isn't as much of an issue as culture. There are more cultural conflicts
than racial.
I hope this will suffice.
If you would like me to report on something else, let me me know. I
would be happy to.
ky