A Tale of Two Suburbs: Contrasting Life in France and Southern California
Having lived in both suburban Bordeaux, France and suburban Southern California, Jon and I have had the chance to really dive into the everyday rhythms and differences between these two worlds. Both places offer the comforts of suburban living, but in ways that are as unique as the landscapes themselves.
Community Vibe and Pace of Life
In Southern California, life always seemed to be on fast-forward. Whether it was the constant stream of cars, the quick stop-and-go errands, or shuttling from one activity to the next, there was always something happening. Our neighbors were friendly, but there was always a sense of everyone being on the move, rushing to the next thing on their packed schedules. The food is fast. The shopping is fast. Even visits with family can be fast as we have, 'so much to do.'
Here in suburban France, everything feels a bit more leisurely. People take the time to greet each other, and there’s a stronger sense of community. Jon and I love how our neighbors often stop to chat, and we’ve found ourselves lingering at the local market just to enjoy the experience. Sundays are particularly special, with most shops closed, and the whole town seems to slow down, giving us a chance to truly unwind.
Architecture and Aesthetics
The contrast in architecture between the two places is something we notice every day. In Southern California, our neighborhood was filled with modern homes—stucco exteriors, large windows, and plenty of space inside and out. It was all about convenience, with wide streets and easy access to everything we needed.
In France, our suburb is filled with charming, traditional homes, some made of stone and brick, others in 70's and 80's style stucco. The narrow streets and close-knit houses give the area a quaint, almost storybook feel. We’ve come to appreciate the historical character of the buildings and the way they blend seamlessly with the surrounding countryside, dappled between lush forests. Every walk through our neighborhood feels like a step back in time, in the best possible way.
Nature and Outdoor Spaces
Both Southern California and suburban France are blessed with beautiful natural surroundings, but they express it differently. Back in California, we were spoiled with vast parks, hiking trails, and the always-visible mountains. The outdoor spaces were expansive and perfect for year-round activities, thanks to the sunny climate.
Here in France, the greenery is more lush and intimate. We’ve found small parks tucked into every corner, and the rolling hills and nearby forests give us a sense of being close to nature, even within our suburban setting. Jon and I love taking Frankie for walks in these green spaces, especially the local park with a stream where she can run off-leash. The mix of countryside and suburb here is truly enchanting.
Food and Daily Routines
The way we approach food has also shifted with our move. In Southern California, life
was all about convenience—quick meals, takeout, and grocery runs where variety and speed were key. We often found ourselves eating on the go or in front of the TV, exhausted from the days activities.
Now in France, mealtime has become an event. We cherish our visits to the local markets, where we pick up fresh produce, bread, and meats along with the daily necessities. Dinners are a time for us to enjoy good food and talk about our day. Even when we dine out, it’s more about savoring the experience than just filling up. The slower pace of life here extends to our meals, and it’s something we’ve grown to love.
Final Thoughts
Living in suburban France has offered us a completely different experience from our time in suburban Southern California. While California was vibrant and fast-paced, full of modern conveniences, France has been a breath of fresh air, with its relaxed pace, deep sense of community, and connection to tradition. Both places have their own unique charm, but our time in France has taught us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and truly enjoy the beauty of everyday life.
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