As an American living in Paris, my lifestyle has improved in many ways, from how I eat to how I balance work and life. Others should take notes.
Kasia Dietz
Fifteen years ago, I met with love on New York's Prince Street. The stuff of fairy tales? Mais oui! He was a handsome Italian living in Paris.
Five months and many visits after our first encounter, I bid farewell to my family, friends, and customs and moved to France, welcoming all the curiosities and clichés composing my new life.
Thanks to my Polish mother, I had an EU passport and an open mind that I credit to my bicultural upbringing. And, looking back after well over a decade of la vie Parisienne, I can say I've adapted well.
There have been difficulties along the way. After all, Paris is still one of the most expensive cities to live in.
But these five lifestyle changes have allowed me to embrace French culture in the best way — you may want to give them a try wherever you are.
Lunch was more of an afterthought during my chaotic life in New York City, where I'd often stare into my computer screen while gulping down a Cobb salad.
These days, lunch is an event. Whether I'm attending a fancy work lunch or grabbing a bite with friends, I take time to consider not only the menu but also my company. Sometimes, even a glass of wine is part of the ceremony.
On days when I'm pressed for time, I'll dine at home or pick up a fresh baguette and savor every crispy bite from a bench in my neighborhood park.
Eating on the run (or in the metro) is a thing of the past. I also allow for a coffee break in the afternoon in which I perch at a café and watch the world go by, even for just a moment.
Kasia Dietz
Cooking has become a regular ritual, and one that I even enjoy, particularly when my Italian chef takes over.
Most of my meals used to be eaten outside of my home, if not ordered in. Now, rather than amassing takeaway menus, I collect cookbooks.
With two farmers markets weekly per neighborhood in Paris, I also now think in terms of seasons when it comes to food. Every spring, I look forward to the strawberry harvest. Before moving, I'd never even been aware of all the varieties and flavors of the fruit.
There are also many vegetables, like white asparagus and turnips, I once took no notice of that now play a leading role in my kitchen.
It feels like quite a contrast to life in New York, where supermarket shelves were fully stocked regardless of what was actually in season.
From Bordeaux to Burgundy, wine has become my drink of choice in a country reputed for its vineyards.
My frequent nights of cocktails followed by late-night fare have been replaced by a glass of wine paired with a healthy dinner. My body thanks me — after all, red wine is a healthier option than sugary mixed drinks.
Plus, nothing complements a well-cooked meal like a good vintage.
With so many leading bars in my neighborhood (like Little Red Door and Candelaria), I still enjoy a creative libation but much prefer the early evening art of the apéro.
Kasia Dietz
One of the most significant lifestyle changes I've made since moving to Paris is connected to sustainability.
Living in the fashion capital and moonlighting as a handbag designer has led me to meet talented fellow designers who produce limited-edition collections in Paris.
I've become dedicated to supporting these local artisans by almost entirely shopping for items made here, and vintage clothing and accessories.
My new philosophy of collecting instead of consuming allows me to save both time and money by not being tempted by fast fashion and fads. Plus, I buy less but better.
To further celebrate local design, I even lead custom fashion tours to introduce visitors to unique and ethically-minded Parisian brands.
As much as I love what I do for work, I understand how important it is to rest and reset.
That doesn't mean a month of summer Fridays, as was the practice for many companies in New York. In France (and much of Western Europe), it means taking off all or most of August to soak beneath the Mediterranean sun or retreat to a family home in the countryside.
I still do tend to check my emails often — I am a New Yorker, after all — but I embrace the month when Paris rests, and life is lived at a slower and more mindful pace.
