I dont know if this is comforting or not but you will never be at an age where you have it all figured out. You may feel settled for a while and then life will throw you a curveball. I'm in my early 40s and am on the cusp of change and trying to figure out which path to take. You never stop learning or growing. Elena, I love that you're embracing so many opportunities and experiences while you're life is still flexible.
That's such a thoughtful perspective! Life is truly a journey of continuous learning and growth, and it's comforting to know that we all navigate our own twists and turns, no matter our age.
I've been following you for a few years now (I'm 24, and I think I've started watching your videos when I was about 18), and almost never left a comment, but I want to say that I think you're such an inspiration and a beautiful human. You look really happy there and it might sound weird, cuz you don't know me, but it really makes me happy to see you've found the things in life that make you happy. You've helped me to accept times when I was struggling with what I want from life and hearing you say that you've found a way to accept the 'not knowing'', sounds so simple, but it really is so strong. Thanks Elena
I deeply appreciate the practical approach that you have taken to your videos. You address the realities of life without becoming pessimistic. I'm a half American who has visited France 2 times. Even though they don't smile a lot and don't strike up conversations spontaneously, I have found French people to be friendly and helpful, especially outside of Paris. I don't speak French so that may make a difference. It’s always a good experience: learning the language is definitely the key I wish you lots of happiness and success in Paris💛❤
Your observations about the French people are so insightful! It’s true that friendliness can be found, especially when you venture outside of the bustling city.
as a lost twenty something, this quote has helped me embrace the uncertainty of life a lot “I was perfectly aware that I had only added another question to all the others, but it was a new one, and, in the absurd world in which I lived, and still live, that was happiness” - I Who Have Never Known Men
I think for learning languages it’s about making the learning process fun, interactive and realistic for you. I’ve found podcasts to be the best because you’re not only hearing it but also speaking it and in casual day to day situations. There isn’t too much internal pressure about sitting down and learning it. Make it a part of the routine. You’ll begin to talk to yourself in that language and question more about how you’d say something. The right local people will always help you learn too.
Absolutely! Making the learning process enjoyable and integrated into your daily life is key to mastering a new language. Podcasts are a fantastic resource, as they offer real-life conversations and contexts that make it easier to grasp how the language is used. It's great to hear how you've incorporated it into your routine, allowing you to think and even converse with yourself in that language.
I have taught myself several languages and my number one tip is to immerse yourself as much as possible. Ideally, that would be talking to native speakers but reading in French (even if you have to look up a lot of words) and watching stuff in French will go a looong way. Also, whenever you do talk to native speakers, ask them how to say what you want to say in French, literally ask them every word or expression you wish to use. Yes, it will be tedious at first but it will do the trick.
For French vocabulary and speaking, what I did when I was home alone was speak alone about what I was doing. When I make a latte in the morning, I say out loud what I'm doing. Ex) Je veux du lait d'avoine, J'ai pris ..." Also, write the names of things on sticky notes and stick them all around the apartment. Place a sticky note on the "la porte" and "laecabinet" etc so every time you see it, you retain it. Also, I watched FRIENDS in French in the beginning because it is a tv show that I know by heart so I already had the understanding of the scene but it was more for my brain to associate that moment with the vocabulary and little phrases. It helped to hear how things are said in real time and with context rather than google translate, etc
@audrianacherie I thought I’m the only one doing this when practicing languages. I’m also just having conversations by myself in French when I want to practice and no one is around. 😅
I did the same with TV shows in Spanish with Spanish subtitles when I moved to Spain. It really helps especially watching something or listening to music in the new language before you go out to socialize so your brain is ready to be in that mode (imo)
Elena, I’ve been following you now for idk how many years but I’m going to Paris for the first time in January and it reminded me of you! I’m so glad you posted this, I’m so excited.
This is my tip for learning French (as an American who lived in France). Put yourself in situations where people don’t speak English. You can ease yourself into it, like find one French friend who also speaks English who will invite you to a party or book club or other type of hobby. Honestly, stuff like the pastry class is a great idea. Typically that one friend will be helpful and can help, but obviously they can’t be your crutch. Try to participate in the conversation as much as you can (even if it’s hard). You’ll go through a period where you’ll just be mentally exhausted, but it’s like every other muscle. You have to keep working it. Also, a tandem partner (paid tutor or free language exchange 50/50 time share) is super helpful. Getting comfortable with 1:1 convos is helpful to prepare going to a group setting. The biggest thing is just to use the language whenever possible. Fully commit to immersion. Best of luck and have fun! Learning a new language is like unlocking a new part of yourself ❤
That’s such a fantastic tip! Immersion is definitely one of the best ways to learn a language, and putting yourself in environments where English isn’t spoken will push you to adapt and grow.
as a french living in the US, I also struggle to make connections here, I feel people around me are really nice at first but don't really care about what I'm talking to them about, they'll leave the convo as soon as they see something interesting (friend coming in, food, whatever etc.) and basically ignore me for the rest of the event or when we'll see each other again. the number of time i talked to people on insta, trying to plan outings just to be ghosted / canceled at the last time is high lmao. So in general I think we just have different views on how to socialize and it's pretty though to adjust so here's my advice for you in Paris: there's a lot of people coming to the city for a job/their studies and the majority of parisians are not native to the city. The best way to make friends will be to meet people by association: a friend of a friend, being invited to parties/bar/terrasse, basically whatever situation where you could meet people in a chill setting without the expectations of being friends right away. What really works is also going to same workout classes for consecutive weeks, at the same time, same day. Or getting classes like you said in a new hobby: it's a discovery for everyone and a great way to share struggles about the activity (french people love to complain just for the art of it) or successes! It might be tough in the beginning and a bit more work will be needed but I think you're going to be able to find people up your alley to be friends with :) PS: also, us french are very last minute people, you could get an invite to get drinks at a bar 30min before the meeting time, that's pretty normal! and we do love our terrasse, even during cold winters ahah
I agree! I am French and have lived in Canada before moving to the US where I now live. I feel it is so hard making genuine friendships with Americans. They are usually very welcoming and you will never feel out of place, but once the encounter is done, there is nothing. It takes so much time to get in their circle and get invited to plans and dinner. I feel on the other hand that the French can be very cold at first, but once they get to know you and break the "stranger" factor they will consider you as part of their friends and will make plans and follow-up with you
This is honestly so helpful for perspective! I’ve had this conversation with some French friends and they’ve shared the same sentiment and it’s been quite eye opening to observe how Americans socialize from this other point of view
“Figuring it out as we go” 👌🏽 Love your honesty about being split between worlds but then also wanting a real base. Going through it myself and I think sharing that helps soooo many of us around this age.
More Elena content is always a welcome breath of fresh air. I spent 4 years living around the French and the best advice I can give is what a friend told me: "The French are like Coconuts tough on the outside but very warm and sweet on the inside." I know 70 year olds who still grapple with the unknown. I have learned to plan, but always make room for the unknown. Just take life one day at a time.
When I first came to London I realised that my school English sucked. The only way to become ‘native’ is to talk, talk and talk. To fall in love, watch movies and comedy shows and get to know everyone at work. And now people can’t believe I am not English 😊 you will get there girl ❤️ love your story
I stumbled upon your videos just now and I am HOOKED!! I love love love your vibe, editing style, and overall honesty with your life and adventures! I know this is your job, but thank you thank you for putting so much care into the details and aesthetics on your channel. Best wishes for you and your future 🫶🏻
Love how comfortable and carefree you are now with all angles! I've been using Duolingo everyday for less than 10 mins and i'm almost at A2 level. When I was in Mont saint michel a month ago, a lady was talking to me in french and kept on insisting a small size on me. I told her je prefere plus grand. haha that felt amazing 🤣
Hey! Just discovering your channel through this video and as an American living in France for 11 years now, I have a French learning tip that helped me a lot in the beginning years ^^. I recommend finding a French friend that wants to improve their English and set up a time once or twice a week where you grab a coffee or dinner and speak only French the first 30 mins or until you can't anymore and then switch to English for the second half. I used to do this with a French friend who lived in my neighborhood every week and it went from 20 mins French / 40 mins English to eventually all French and now we rarely speak English together because throughout the years my French has become fluent! Hope this advice helps!
Elena, your videos are beautiful to watch, and it's also nice and reassuring to hear someone voice questions similar to the ones I have about life and the different choices we have to make. Happy to see you grow and have fun in the process!
such an inspiring vlog!!! About to turn 25 and am feeling... so confused and anxious about my career future. Love what you said about making peace with the unknown.
I love your life in Paris. Paris is a dream for me but it’s not so easy since I have a family. 3 girls and a hubby…. :) so embrace it! Yes and I want to see a lot more vlogs of life in Paris… Thank you!
I just found your channel and I really enjoyed this video! Loved the vibes and I love Paris and I hope to move there someday. I lived in Paris for 6 months when I studied abroad in college and it will always have a special place in my heart, it’s such a beautiful city 🥺
I spent a year studying French in Geneva and my biggest language learning tip feels weird and a little counterintuitive, but speak Franglish/Franglais as much as possible. To yourself, in your head, to your friends who are also learning French. The more you do it the less English you will use in your sentences. Even if you start with all English but following French sentence structure, I found it to be extremely helpful. Good luck!
Hi Elena ! I totally understand what you say about French not being the most open people. As a French who moved to Paris for studies, I went through the same thing. Even if French is my mother tongue. I think this is really something about Paris, but for the rest of France it’s really different, people are more open to new friendship. They move more so they also don’t keep long term friendships. Paris is really different from the rest of France in general I think.
I have a friend who speaks fluent French (she's Australian) - she works in academia and she often needs to interview people in French. To get to a point where she was taken seriously, even in general conversation - where French people (particularly Parisians) would speak to her in French, rather than hear her Australian accent through French words and start speaking English (so frustrating when you're really trying), she got a one-on-one tutor. Maybe you could try that? Or yeah - bag yourself a French boyfriend - who's also a tutor 😍
The best Friday night plans are when Elena uploads a video! 🎉 Happy Halloween! Sending so much love and blessings all the way from India as we celebrate Diwali! 🪔✨
For learning French as a native English speaker, i highly recommend spending at least a month in an area of France where there are very little people that speak English. I spent 6 months in Brittany with my French partner and I knew next to no French but I learned because I didn’t have the choice if I wanted to speak and partake in conversations. In my experience, having a partner who speaks French isn’t the best way to learn because you will just end up speaking English together (even after 6 years, and my level of French is very good). It can help though in situations where you are the only non-native speaker and you need some translations to be able to partake in conversations. It’s definitely not easy to learn a new language, but once you reach the point where you don’t even need to think about what you need to say, it is very rewarding 👌
what you said about how people do not include someone if they see them a bit left out is so true. This is something that has always bothered me, I could never comprehend why people would just instead say that the person who is by themselves is either "weird" or "arrogant" instead of reaching out to them and include them in the group. When I'm the one in a group and see someone alone, I include them !! This is one of the reasons why I've always felt like I didn't belong in this country even though I was born and raised here. I want to leave this place so bad !! The energy fckng sucks lol and it's worse when you're black. I have a hard time finding a real community of people I can truly connect with here.
I completely understand where you're coming from. It’s so disheartening to see people excluded simply because they’re on their own, and it speaks volumes about the social dynamics at play. It’s wonderful that you make the effort to include others-more people need to follow that example!
Listen to French vlogs/conversations online for 20 minutes a day: French Facile, Easy French, Piece of French, French Short Stories (The Perfect French With Dylane), etc. Follow the French subtitles if you want, but mostly just listen - even if you don't understand a lot of it. Your brain needs to recognize the sounds of French. This is what changed things for me (after 20 months of learning but not really getting anywhere). Hearing French is the difficult part for all learners - especially English speakers living outside of Europe. For us, Canadian French is easier to understand, and to an extent, Belgian. (Could be the German influence.) Parisien French is harder to hear than most other French accents. So keep learning and listening - bonne chance!
Parisian women are so cold. I was never able to make one single parisian female (true) friend in ten years spent there. My friends were all coming from abroad. I thought I was the problem, that my french was not good enough, but nothing changed when my french became perfect. I tried everything: knitting classes, perfume classes, trekking in the countryside. I started feeling depressed and lonely and decided to leave. There's something very cold and gloomy about Paris. You are such a beautiful and intelligent young woman, there's no reason for you to feel lonely. Leave that place, you are to good for Paris.
I think it's a very European thing in general about how people stay with the same friend groups for years and stay closed off to anyone new. I've experienced the exact same thing in Dublin, Ireland and the Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It's very frustrating and makes it really hard to make new friends with local people rather than expats for that reason :(
Yes, girl, I make RUclips videos in a similar spirit as you (although in a very different chapter of life lol, renovating a tiny home in the country anyone?) and am a little older and feel like the biggest sham from our modern culture that I've had to rewire my brain around, has been the idea of 'figuring life/direction out.' Also, having lived in England and Italy in the past, the social culture of people (in both countries) having and keeping friends from childhood that are all very tight knit and nearly impossible to break into (because it's like, if you want to befriend one person, you have to befriend them all? but also people aren't really actively looking for or have the capacity for new friends...) was one of the hardest aspects for me - you're not alone. I found reading in the language I was learning to be key to get to that next level in a language! Sending love from my corner of the world to yours ♡
It's nice that you are having a good time in Paris. I visited there once, and I personally did not like it that much, but that's just me though. Lived in California almost my entire life, and it's home for me.
omg i'm dying to find those tall jeans you found on zalando, this fellow tall european girlie is always on the hunt for good jeans 🥹 am i just not looking in the right place or could you maybe still link them? i appreciate the heck out of you elena 😌
Hi ,I am Natacha from London . I was thinking the same ,French boy friend will be a big help 😂. I was 23 when I move to London from Mauritius and now I am 44 😅. I had the best time and I never once worried about the future I have just enjoyed every single moment. Enjoy your freedom have fun 🤩 do what makes you happy.
Im also moved to France recently. Speaking French is a must! I personally recommending to you to have teacher, you can do classes online. Alone it’s impossible to learn French because of prononciation.
I'd say you rocked the slick bun not to mention the red lip! BTW, couldn't find the link for the beautiful Sézane sweater and tall-girl jeans... Merci !
French frustrations - I literally went to a school outside France from a toddler that was on the IB and even I struggle speaking to Parisians. Don't feel bad! Hahaha
Gorgeous vlog! Aww I love that your bestie moved to London too. Making it so much easier for you guys to stay connected. Literally life is best with our besties. If she’s looking to make more friends in London? Defo hit us up. I run a female empowerment community where we come together once a month and celebrate our latest wins and cheer each other on for our achievements, give each other the motivation for the month ahead. She would be so welcome. The next one is this Tuesday. And yes 💯 more vlogs girl. I’m so here for them! Paris is one of my favourite cities I was a dancer in HSM many moons ago and Paris holds a special place in my heart. It’s great to see your journey around this stunning city. Thanks for sharing! Loved it. Have a great day! 💖
Elena, have you read Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman? In some ways it’s the anti-self help / improvement book, but it’s a refreshing take on the pressure we put on ourselves. 📖
Hi Elana! beautiful video and your kilamenjaro adventure was also incredible...vloging idea- how about taking us to lovely but "lesser known" cities in Europe - like Prague or Milan aswxamples; I feel like the European transit system makes those places generally accessible and it would be fun to watch you make good use of of the system which is both sustainable in nature and sensory rich at same time; alsk thanks for all you do for us!
I achieved fluency in Japanese over 6 years (philosophy, news-level), whereas Mandarin took me about a year (not the same level, but self-sufficiency in Chinese cities). My top pieces of advice would be - Ditch all language microlearning apps lol - Something like the Lingoda sprints, forcing you to hit discipline with language habits daily and having the accountability of a teacher and classmates is good. - Actually any teacher where you meet 3-4 times a week for a minimum of 2 hours, WITH assigned homework in reading and writing, will see you over that bump in a matter of months - Start building vocab with children's books in your target language. You may be one of those people who can be committed to your own Anki flashcards, Memrise etc but I'm not like that. I am the type of learner who will progress faster with a teacher, even faster with classmates (I'm a competitive MF). Once I hit a basic level of Mandarin sentence structures, my teacher started giving weekly speaking assignments too where I could do a short composition on whatever topic and present it in front of the class. Whatever that scares the shit out of you, that makes your nervous system spike, HEAD IN THAT DIRECTION. Language cannot be learned in drips and drops, only in floodwaters and learning how to swim. 😊 Best of luck!
Oh and another thing is consider if you're the type of person to be motivated by exam-related goals. I wanted to be able to use Japanese professionally so I worked very hard to get my certificates and that boosted my speed to fluency. As for Mandarin, I was mostly motivated by surviving in the city and during solo travels etc. But some people really thrive in an exam-driven setting.
I have a friend from mainland China who self-taught English using those apps where you can basically have penpals with locals of your target language. I was shocked that he basically speaks with the accent of a Friends character hahaha. Maybe something you can consider! I believe it's called iTalki or Hellonative or something like that
Hello Elena, je te suis depuis quelques années maintenant et quel courage !!! Je suis française et je te confirme que beaucoup d'entre nous entretiennent des amitiés depuis l'école primaire... Néanmoins ce n'est pas une raison pour ne pas être inclusif et ayant vécu à l'étranger pendant quelques temps je comprends totalement ce que tu vis! Si jamais tu as envie de prendre un café avec une française (parisienne) amicale et solaire n'hésite pas à me contacter, ce serait avec grand plaisir :) PS : I wrote the comment in French but i hope you will understand it 🫶🏻
I dont know if this is comforting or not but you will never be at an age where you have it all figured out. You may feel settled for a while and then life will throw you a curveball. I'm in my early 40s and am on the cusp of change and trying to figure out which path to take. You never stop learning or growing. Elena, I love that you're embracing so many opportunities and experiences while you're life is still flexible.
Thank you for this reminder and perspective!
That's such a thoughtful perspective! Life is truly a journey of continuous learning and growth, and it's comforting to know that we all navigate our own twists and turns, no matter our age.
She is extremely depressed. childless depressed modern woman
Another childless, pre menopausal. depressed modern woman, eating plants.
childless and depressed woman trying to cope.
Typical modern woman.
I've been following you for a few years now (I'm 24, and I think I've started watching your videos when I was about 18), and almost never left a comment, but I want to say that I think you're such an inspiration and a beautiful human. You look really happy there and it might sound weird, cuz you don't know me, but it really makes me happy to see you've found the things in life that make you happy. You've helped me to accept times when I was struggling with what I want from life and hearing you say that you've found a way to accept the 'not knowing'', sounds so simple, but it really is so strong. Thanks Elena
This makes me so happy to read :') we're all just figuring it out!
the vibes of this vlog are immaculate 👌🏻 alsooo I love the energy you were serving with the slicked back hair!! such a great look
I deeply appreciate the practical approach that you have taken to your videos. You address the realities of life without becoming pessimistic.
I'm a half American who has visited France 2 times. Even though they don't smile a lot and don't strike up conversations spontaneously,
I have found French people to be friendly and helpful, especially outside of Paris.
I don't speak French so that may make a difference. It’s always a good experience: learning the language is definitely the key
I wish you lots of happiness and success in Paris💛❤
Your observations about the French people are so insightful! It’s true that friendliness can be found, especially when you venture outside of the bustling city.
as a lost twenty something, this quote has helped me embrace the uncertainty of life a lot
“I was perfectly aware that I had only added another question to all the others, but it was a new one, and, in the absurd world in which I lived, and still live, that was happiness” - I Who Have Never Known Men
Thank you for sharing. I love this
I think for learning languages it’s about making the learning process fun, interactive and realistic for you. I’ve found podcasts to be the best because you’re not only hearing it but also speaking it and in casual day to day situations. There isn’t too much internal pressure about sitting down and learning it. Make it a part of the routine. You’ll begin to talk to yourself in that language and question more about how you’d say something. The right local people will always help you learn too.
Absolutely! Making the learning process enjoyable and integrated into your daily life is key to mastering a new language. Podcasts are a fantastic resource, as they offer real-life conversations and contexts that make it easier to grasp how the language is used. It's great to hear how you've incorporated it into your routine, allowing you to think and even converse with yourself in that language.
I have taught myself several languages and my number one tip is to immerse yourself as much as possible. Ideally, that would be talking to native speakers but reading in French (even if you have to look up a lot of words) and watching stuff in French will go a looong way. Also, whenever you do talk to native speakers, ask them how to say what you want to say in French, literally ask them every word or expression you wish to use. Yes, it will be tedious at first but it will do the trick.
That’s such a fantastic tip! Immersion really is one of the most effective ways to learn a language.
For French vocabulary and speaking, what I did when I was home alone was speak alone about what I was doing. When I make a latte in the morning, I say out loud what I'm doing. Ex) Je veux du lait d'avoine, J'ai pris ..."
Also, write the names of things on sticky notes and stick them all around the apartment. Place a sticky note on the "la porte" and "laecabinet" etc so every time you see it, you retain it.
Also, I watched FRIENDS in French in the beginning because it is a tv show that I know by heart so I already had the understanding of the scene but it was more for my brain to associate that moment with the vocabulary and little phrases. It helped to hear how things are said in real time and with context rather than google translate, etc
@audrianacherie
I thought I’m the only one doing this when practicing languages. I’m also just having conversations by myself in French when I want to practice and no one is around. 😅
I did the same with TV shows in Spanish with Spanish subtitles when I moved to Spain. It really helps especially watching something or listening to music in the new language before you go out to socialize so your brain is ready to be in that mode (imo)
Depressed childless modern woman, 27?
Already done. Menopause is at the corner.
Elena, I’ve been following you now for idk how many years but I’m going to Paris for the first time in January and it reminded me of you! I’m so glad you posted this, I’m so excited.
This is my tip for learning French (as an American who lived in France). Put yourself in situations where people don’t speak English. You can ease yourself into it, like find one French friend who also speaks English who will invite you to a party or book club or other type of hobby. Honestly, stuff like the pastry class is a great idea. Typically that one friend will be helpful and can help, but obviously they can’t be your crutch. Try to participate in the conversation as much as you can (even if it’s hard). You’ll go through a period where you’ll just be mentally exhausted, but it’s like every other muscle. You have to keep working it. Also, a tandem partner (paid tutor or free language exchange 50/50 time share) is super helpful. Getting comfortable with 1:1 convos is helpful to prepare going to a group setting. The biggest thing is just to use the language whenever possible. Fully commit to immersion. Best of luck and have fun! Learning a new language is like unlocking a new part of yourself ❤
That’s such a fantastic tip! Immersion is definitely one of the best ways to learn a language, and putting yourself in environments where English isn’t spoken will push you to adapt and grow.
ah this is so helpful!
as a french living in the US, I also struggle to make connections here, I feel people around me are really nice at first but don't really care about what I'm talking to them about, they'll leave the convo as soon as they see something interesting (friend coming in, food, whatever etc.) and basically ignore me for the rest of the event or when we'll see each other again. the number of time i talked to people on insta, trying to plan outings just to be ghosted / canceled at the last time is high lmao.
So in general I think we just have different views on how to socialize and it's pretty though to adjust so here's my advice for you in Paris: there's a lot of people coming to the city for a job/their studies and the majority of parisians are not native to the city. The best way to make friends will be to meet people by association: a friend of a friend, being invited to parties/bar/terrasse, basically whatever situation where you could meet people in a chill setting without the expectations of being friends right away. What really works is also going to same workout classes for consecutive weeks, at the same time, same day. Or getting classes like you said in a new hobby: it's a discovery for everyone and a great way to share struggles about the activity (french people love to complain just for the art of it) or successes!
It might be tough in the beginning and a bit more work will be needed but I think you're going to be able to find people up your alley to be friends with :)
PS: also, us french are very last minute people, you could get an invite to get drinks at a bar 30min before the meeting time, that's pretty normal! and we do love our terrasse, even during cold winters ahah
I agree! I am French and have lived in Canada before moving to the US where I now live. I feel it is so hard making genuine friendships with Americans. They are usually very welcoming and you will never feel out of place, but once the encounter is done, there is nothing. It takes so much time to get in their circle and get invited to plans and dinner. I feel on the other hand that the French can be very cold at first, but once they get to know you and break the "stranger" factor they will consider you as part of their friends and will make plans and follow-up with you
This is honestly so helpful for perspective! I’ve had this conversation with some French friends and they’ve shared the same sentiment and it’s been quite eye opening to observe how Americans socialize from this other point of view
“Figuring it out as we go” 👌🏽 Love your honesty about being split between worlds but then also wanting a real base. Going through it myself and I think sharing that helps soooo many of us around this age.
More Elena content is always a welcome breath of fresh air. I spent 4 years living around the French and the best advice I can give is what a friend told me: "The French are like Coconuts tough on the outside but very warm and sweet on the inside." I know 70 year olds who still grapple with the unknown. I have learned to plan, but always make room for the unknown. Just take life one day at a time.
As a 30yo Canadian, I have this dear dream to move to Paris next year. Your videos give me life!!!! Hopefully i will join you!
When I first came to London I realised that my school English sucked. The only way to become ‘native’ is to talk, talk and talk. To fall in love, watch movies and comedy shows and get to know everyone at work. And now people can’t believe I am not English 😊 you will get there girl ❤️ love your story
I love you show that it’s ok to get comfortable being uncomfortable. I’m 40 and learning a lot from you. Keep doing what you do. It’s great :)
She is very depressed. You watched the Goatis video about her?
I stumbled upon your videos just now and I am HOOKED!! I love love love your vibe, editing style, and overall honesty with your life and adventures! I know this is your job, but thank you thank you for putting so much care into the details and aesthetics on your channel. Best wishes for you and your future 🫶🏻
Love how comfortable and carefree you are now with all angles! I've been using Duolingo everyday for less than 10 mins and i'm almost at A2 level. When I was in Mont saint michel a month ago, a lady was talking to me in french and kept on insisting a small size on me. I told her je prefere plus grand. haha that felt amazing 🤣
Hey! Just discovering your channel through this video and as an American living in France for 11 years now, I have a French learning tip that helped me a lot in the beginning years ^^. I recommend finding a French friend that wants to improve their English and set up a time once or twice a week where you grab a coffee or dinner and speak only French the first 30 mins or until you can't anymore and then switch to English for the second half. I used to do this with a French friend who lived in my neighborhood every week and it went from 20 mins French / 40 mins English to eventually all French and now we rarely speak English together because throughout the years my French has become fluent! Hope this advice helps!
Elena, your videos are beautiful to watch, and it's also nice and reassuring to hear someone voice questions similar to the ones I have about life and the different choices we have to make. Happy to see you grow and have fun in the process!
Life in Paris, especially the restaurants and food! Love your Paris vlogs!!!!!!!!!!!
The OG is backkkk ❤ happy to see more of your life in Paris. Living vicariously through you ❤
I’m in Paris for the first time and it’s so wild seeing places I now recognize 😭
such an inspiring vlog!!! About to turn 25 and am feeling... so confused and anxious about my career future. Love what you said about making peace with the unknown.
As someone who moved around most of childhood and adolescence I totally relate to what you were saying about making friends and adjusting
I love your life in Paris. Paris is a dream for me but it’s not so easy since I have a family. 3 girls and a hubby…. :) so embrace it! Yes and I want to see a lot more vlogs of life in Paris… Thank you!
I just found your channel and I really enjoyed this video! Loved the vibes and I love Paris and I hope to move there someday. I lived in Paris for 6 months when I studied abroad in college and it will always have a special place in my heart, it’s such a beautiful city 🥺
You being silly and goofy when you slicked your hair into the bun was so funny idk why ❤😂
Definitely love the vlogs girlfran! Would love some more fashion videos too or fit checks in vlogs
I spent a year studying French in Geneva and my biggest language learning tip feels weird and a little counterintuitive, but speak Franglish/Franglais as much as possible. To yourself, in your head, to your friends who are also learning French. The more you do it the less English you will use in your sentences. Even if you start with all English but following French sentence structure, I found it to be extremely helpful. Good luck!
Hi Elena ! I totally understand what you say about French not being the most open people. As a French who moved to Paris for studies, I went through the same thing. Even if French is my mother tongue. I think this is really something about Paris, but for the rest of France it’s really different, people are more open to new friendship. They move more so they also don’t keep long term friendships. Paris is really different from the rest of France in general I think.
Yesss I think you're very right!
omg the vlog break is over???? BEST NEWS IVE HEARD
love this video! love insights into French culture and seeing more of your personality !
you look so happy i love it🤍
THE SLICK BACK IS SO CUTE
I have a friend who speaks fluent French (she's Australian) - she works in academia and she often needs to interview people in French. To get to a point where she was taken seriously, even in general conversation - where French people (particularly Parisians) would speak to her in French, rather than hear her Australian accent through French words and start speaking English (so frustrating when you're really trying), she got a one-on-one tutor. Maybe you could try that? Or yeah - bag yourself a French boyfriend - who's also a tutor 😍
Yaaay welcome back! We missed you 🥰
The best Friday night plans are when Elena uploads a video! 🎉 Happy Halloween! Sending so much love and blessings all the way from India as we celebrate Diwali! 🪔✨
:')
Very cool vlog ! Tips for the langage learning part : listen to podcasts and watch movies/tv show in french, with english and then french subtitles :)
For learning French as a native English speaker, i highly recommend spending at least a month in an area of France where there are very little people that speak English. I spent 6 months in Brittany with my French partner and I knew next to no French but I learned because I didn’t have the choice if I wanted to speak and partake in conversations. In my experience, having a partner who speaks French isn’t the best way to learn because you will just end up speaking English together (even after 6 years, and my level of French is very good). It can help though in situations where you are the only non-native speaker and you need some translations to be able to partake in conversations. It’s definitely not easy to learn a new language, but once you reach the point where you don’t even need to think about what you need to say, it is very rewarding 👌
what you said about how people do not include someone if they see them a bit left out is so true. This is something that has always bothered me, I could never comprehend why people would just instead say that the person who is by themselves is either "weird" or "arrogant" instead of reaching out to them and include them in the group. When I'm the one in a group and see someone alone, I include them !!
This is one of the reasons why I've always felt like I didn't belong in this country even though I was born and raised here. I want to leave this place so bad !! The energy fckng sucks lol and it's worse when you're black. I have a hard time finding a real community of people I can truly connect with here.
I completely understand where you're coming from. It’s so disheartening to see people excluded simply because they’re on their own, and it speaks volumes about the social dynamics at play. It’s wonderful that you make the effort to include others-more people need to follow that example!
Listen to French vlogs/conversations online for 20 minutes a day: French Facile, Easy French, Piece of French, French Short Stories (The Perfect French With Dylane), etc. Follow the French subtitles if you want, but mostly just listen - even if you don't understand a lot of it. Your brain needs to recognize the sounds of French. This is what changed things for me (after 20 months of learning but not really getting anywhere). Hearing French is the difficult part for all learners - especially English speakers living outside of Europe. For us, Canadian French is easier to understand, and to an extent, Belgian. (Could be the German influence.) Parisien French is harder to hear than most other French accents. So keep learning and listening - bonne chance!
I love this gurl and her vlogs soooo muuuch
Parisian women are so cold. I was never able to make one single parisian female (true) friend in ten years spent there. My friends were all coming from abroad. I thought I was the problem, that my french was not good enough, but nothing changed when my french became perfect. I tried everything: knitting classes, perfume classes, trekking in the countryside. I started feeling depressed and lonely and decided to leave. There's something very cold and gloomy about Paris. You are such a beautiful and intelligent young woman, there's no reason for you to feel lonely. Leave that place, you are to good for Paris.
I think it's a very European thing in general about how people stay with the same friend groups for years and stay closed off to anyone new. I've experienced the exact same thing in Dublin, Ireland and the Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It's very frustrating and makes it really hard to make new friends with local people rather than expats for that reason :(
In school we started learning french with french chansons, I think it’s worth a try!
Love your vlogsss
What were the cafés/restaurants you've been to? I'm looking for some cool places in Paris
Wonderful. Missed these great to see You running & doing excellent in Paree Buddy💥💪🏾👸🏽🤝🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 i love biking around Central Park still hwvr
I will be traveling to Paris In January I’m so excited! Nice video ❤
Yes, girl, I make RUclips videos in a similar spirit as you (although in a very different chapter of life lol, renovating a tiny home in the country anyone?) and am a little older and feel like the biggest sham from our modern culture that I've had to rewire my brain around, has been the idea of 'figuring life/direction out.' Also, having lived in England and Italy in the past, the social culture of people (in both countries) having and keeping friends from childhood that are all very tight knit and nearly impossible to break into (because it's like, if you want to befriend one person, you have to befriend them all? but also people aren't really actively looking for or have the capacity for new friends...) was one of the hardest aspects for me - you're not alone. I found reading in the language I was learning to be key to get to that next level in a language! Sending love from my corner of the world to yours ♡
You're doing everything I hoped you'd do while in Paris. .😊❤
Another sponsor. YEAH!
It's nice that you are having a good time in Paris. I visited there once, and I personally did not like it that much, but that's just me though. Lived in California almost my entire life, and it's home for me.
omg i'm dying to find those tall jeans you found on zalando, this fellow tall european girlie is always on the hunt for good jeans 🥹 am i just not looking in the right place or could you maybe still link them? i appreciate the heck out of you elena 😌
yess i got you! www.zalando.fr/only-tall-onlhope-ex-jean-bootcut-dark-blue-denim-ond21n0f5-k11.html
Hi ,I am Natacha from London . I was thinking the same ,French boy friend will be a big help 😂. I was 23 when I move to London from Mauritius and now I am 44 😅. I had the best time and I never once worried about the future I
have just enjoyed every single moment. Enjoy your freedom have fun 🤩 do what makes you happy.
Im also moved to France recently. Speaking French is a must! I personally recommending to you to have teacher, you can do classes online. Alone it’s impossible to learn French because of prononciation.
You look so happy I love it 🌸
I love travelling. I want to feel the earth fragrance. I like your show
aaaah its Jack!!! I love ya'll!
You look so happy I love it💗
Lovee this and love this time for you Elena
I'd say you rocked the slick bun not to mention the red lip! BTW, couldn't find the link for the beautiful Sézane sweater and tall-girl jeans... Merci !
French frustrations - I literally went to a school outside France from a toddler that was on the IB and even I struggle speaking to Parisians. Don't feel bad! Hahaha
Paris is so beautiful
You look so happy i love it
loved this vlog
Your choice of background music est vraiment fantastique! Any way to share with us the list with every video?
Ahhh yes I love Anna ✨✨
Come to London for a coffe talk :) Loads of love!
Gorgeous vlog! Aww I love that your bestie moved to London too. Making it so much easier for you guys to stay connected. Literally life is best with our besties. If she’s looking to make more friends in London? Defo hit us up. I run a female empowerment community where we come together once a month and celebrate our latest wins and cheer each other on for our achievements, give each other the motivation for the month ahead. She would be so welcome. The next one is this Tuesday.
And yes 💯 more vlogs girl. I’m so here for them! Paris is one of my favourite cities I was a dancer in HSM many moons ago and Paris holds a special place in my heart. It’s great to see your journey around this stunning city. Thanks for sharing! Loved it. Have a great day! 💖
Elena, every recent video of yours that I watch, the more understood (and not alone) I feel. It's very precious, so thank you!
The height of the lamp in the kitchen seems scary 😅 Stay safe ✌🏼
I appreciate you and thank you for making content.
cool girl means a very different thing in France - i lived there for 15 years and i always felt like an outsider
Elena, have you read Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman? In some ways it’s the anti-self help / improvement book, but it’s a refreshing take on the pressure we put on ourselves. 📖
LOVE LOVE LOVE the Paris vlogs🫶🏼🫶🏼
Love this 💕
Hi Elana! beautiful video and your kilamenjaro adventure was also incredible...vloging idea- how about taking us to lovely but "lesser known" cities in Europe - like Prague or Milan aswxamples; I feel like the European transit system makes those places generally accessible and it would be fun to watch you make good use of of the system which is both sustainable in nature and sensory rich at same time; alsk thanks for all you do for us!
What a creativity.
wow,i love your all videos❤
2:52 I recognize that kitchen! haha
I love the girl and her vlogs❤
Girl that’s a dream I want to live one day🤗🎉 love your sweater and blue shorts do you have a link?
Ritz for a pastry lesson..... pretty epic 😮😊
I achieved fluency in Japanese over 6 years (philosophy, news-level), whereas Mandarin took me about a year (not the same level, but self-sufficiency in Chinese cities). My top pieces of advice would be
- Ditch all language microlearning apps lol
- Something like the Lingoda sprints, forcing you to hit discipline with language habits daily and having the accountability of a teacher and classmates is good.
- Actually any teacher where you meet 3-4 times a week for a minimum of 2 hours, WITH assigned homework in reading and writing, will see you over that bump in a matter of months
- Start building vocab with children's books in your target language.
You may be one of those people who can be committed to your own Anki flashcards, Memrise etc but I'm not like that. I am the type of learner who will progress faster with a teacher, even faster with classmates (I'm a competitive MF). Once I hit a basic level of Mandarin sentence structures, my teacher started giving weekly speaking assignments too where I could do a short composition on whatever topic and present it in front of the class.
Whatever that scares the shit out of you, that makes your nervous system spike, HEAD IN THAT DIRECTION. Language cannot be learned in drips and drops, only in floodwaters and learning how to swim. 😊 Best of luck!
Oh and another thing is consider if you're the type of person to be motivated by exam-related goals. I wanted to be able to use Japanese professionally so I worked very hard to get my certificates and that boosted my speed to fluency. As for Mandarin, I was mostly motivated by surviving in the city and during solo travels etc. But some people really thrive in an exam-driven setting.
I have a friend from mainland China who self-taught English using those apps where you can basically have penpals with locals of your target language. I was shocked that he basically speaks with the accent of a Friends character hahaha. Maybe something you can consider! I believe it's called iTalki or Hellonative or something like that
You look so happy 😍
I really appreciate your explanation 🎉
You look so happy i love it🤍
have you tried watching Netflix/other movies or TV shows with french (not english!) subtitles? this helped me a lot to understand french
I love this video 💖
Love this vlog
Hello Elena, je te suis depuis quelques années maintenant et quel courage !!! Je suis française et je te confirme que beaucoup d'entre nous entretiennent des amitiés depuis l'école primaire... Néanmoins ce n'est pas une raison pour ne pas être inclusif et ayant vécu à l'étranger pendant quelques temps je comprends totalement ce que tu vis! Si jamais tu as envie de prendre un café avec une française (parisienne) amicale et solaire n'hésite pas à me contacter, ce serait avec grand plaisir :)
PS : I wrote the comment in French but i hope you will understand it 🫶🏻
my favorite city 😍
Can I ask where your rings are from...I noticed in the cooking class and so pretty!
Parisians are way more reserved than americans, I think. Often people seem cold but really they are just shy.
Ahhh so nice!!❤
you look so happy l love it
TAJIN ON EGGS?????? you might be onto something
Your gold choker is so cute from the last clip, do you have a link? :)
Outstanding video
I hope you bought Nathaniel's flat. It really is so nice.