Recently I read, loved, and reviewed Confessions of an Expat in Paris, a memoir from Vicki Lesage. And she was kind enough to do an interview with me.
KS: What’s your favorite alcoholic drink?
VL: Right now I’m really into cider, especially rosé cider. But I will always love sangria, any time of year!
KS: Out of all the awkward events in Expat, what is the one that makes you cringe the most?
VL: The time I possibly (probably) ate my friend’s finger. Barf.
KS: Have you had any reverse culture shock moving back to the states?
VL: Now that I’m almost 3 years in to being back, I’ve gotten used to things again. But it still never ceases to amaze me how Americans will drive distances that Europeans would have walked and how people will wear sweaters at work because the AC is on too high instead of adjusting the AC (we didn’t even’t have AC in France)! Then again, stores are open on Sundays here and everything is much more affordable. So I will keep my complaints to a minimum!
KS: In another life, do you think you would have been a professional bartender?
VL: Perhaps! I’ve helped out at bars before and I loved making drinks. And listening to people’s crazy stories. Although I’m not sure I could deal with annoying clients (like me) who insist on singing karaoke (like me) into fake microphones (like me).
KS: Is there any place, aside from Paris or the States, that you would like to live?
VL: I’ve always loved Vienna, but I don’t know if I have it in me to make another international move in this lifetime.
KS: Which of your memoirs was your favorite to write?
VL: This one’s tough. I really enjoyed all of them. My first one (Confessions of a Paris Party Girl) because it was so new and exciting to be writing. Writing Confessions of a Paris Potty Trainer helped me get through 14 weeks of bed rest during my second pregnancy. Christmas Confessions & Cocktails gave me a chance to talk more about my life in the U.S. before moving to Paris. And Confessions of an Expat in Paris allowed me to talk more about my kids once they were a little older and their unique personalities started to shine through.
KS: What do you miss the most about Paris?
VL: I miss walking home from the Metro each night and picking up a hot, fresh baguette on the way.
KS: What was your favorite country to visit?
VL: Italy. I’ve been to many countries I loved, but Italy tops them all. Beautiful scenery, people, and food. History. Wine. It’s just amazing.
KS: Do you have a current writing project that you’re working on now?
VL: I’m at the very beginning of a book about life after moving back to the States with my French family. Stay tuned!
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