Paris Linkup: an exceptionally effective means for making social connections

Originating in San Francisco, the Bay Area Linkup concept is now up and running in Paris as parislinkup.com! The mission of Linkup is to provide an exceptionally effective means, within a clear ethical framework, for members to locate and cultivate the most important resources of life: people, relationships, ideas and experiences.

As the website explains, Paris Linkup is a way for people to meet in person, have fun, create new connections and discover opportunities. It's designed to bring people together for mutual benefit and help them stay in touch if they want to. Paris Linkup is not a traditional "events organization" but a way for people to create their own social and professional events. As their site says, events that are "like a potluck, but on every level, not just food."

Check out the Bay Area Linkup site to get an idea of the kinds of groups that have coalesced there and events people have organized. Use is free for the first 90 days after which there's a small monthly charge. You can start and stop your membership on a month by month basis. www.parislinkup.com

Meet Swedes, Norwegians, Italians, Spaniards and Dutch expats in Paris

Several expat circles and groups exist in Paris through which people can meet other expats from their own country and where others are welcome to join in.

Swedes and Norwegians: The Cercle Suédois holds an open house most Wednesday evenings starting at 18h00. Friends are welcome to come. Non-members: 8 euros. Call 01 4260 7667 to confirm details. Cercle Suédois is located at 242, rue de Rivoli. Second floor. M° Concorde. Cercle Suédois

Italians: The Italian expat community holds a "Aperitivo all'Italiana" once a month at the Le Pain Quotidien, 18, place du Marché St Honoré. Open buffet including one drink: 10 euros. Visit Italians Online for details.

Spaniards: Twice a month a dinner is organized for international Spanish speakers at a Spanish or Latin American restaurant somewhere in Paris. Email contacto@cenalatina.org for details. La Cena Latina en Paris

Dutch: Dutch speakers can share a drink with Dutch expats at "Nederlandse Borrel" gatherings held once a month. Visit Dutch in France for details.

Kunveno: a club where internationally-minded people can meet and feel at home

Kunveno in Esperanto means "bringing people together, a gathering". The founders of Kunveno wanted to provide a way for global nomads and world citizens to meet internationally-minded locals and for people of all national backgrounds to get together and share their experiences in a relaxed environment. Informal monthly meetings are held - often at the Tadoussac Canadian restaurant and lounge bar on rue Saint Honoré - in addition to other events. For more details, visit the Kunveno website. www.kunveno.com

Café Philos events cover philosophical topics ranging from the classical to the absurd

Café Philos - otherwise known as Philosophy Cafés - have sprung up throughout the world during the past decade. Originally starting in Paris in 1992 when Marc Sautet and several friends got together to discuss various issues of the day at the famous "Café des Phares" at the Place de la Bastille. Events in Paris now take place in various cafés, including Café de Flore (bd St Germain), and in restaurants for dinner meetings. Philosophy workshops are also organized. Visit the Café Philos website for the latest calendar of events and contact information. www.philodialogue.com

British Community Committee provides info on what's happening in the British community

The British Community Committee (BCC) is essentially an association of British associations in France. It usually doesn't organize events but rather publicizes the existence of member groups and consolidates and communicates information on events being organized by all the groups. The BCC calendar forms a comprehensive listing of what's going in the British community for both Britons and anglophiles. To find out more, visit their website or email info@britishinfrance.com. www.britishinfrance.com

International cultural institutes and centres in Paris host interesting events

Over 35 international cultural institutes and centres in Paris host a rich and diverse collection of events, exhibitions, concerts and talks that are worth checking out. ParisList favorites include:

Centre culturel irlandais - 5, rue des Irlandais, 5e
[www.centreculturelirlandais.com]
Centre culturel suédois - 11, rue de Payenne, 3e
[www.ccs.si.se]
Centre tchèque - 18, rue Bonaparte, 6e
[www.centretcheque.org]
Maison de la culture du Japon - 101 bis, quai de Branly, 15e
[www.mcjp.asso.fr]

A good starting point to find out what's on is the Forum des Instituts Culturels Etrangers à Paris (FICEP). Their website maintains information about each of the centres including links and there's a newsletter to which you can subscribe. www.ficep.info

Moving Parts play readings at Carr's Pub

Moving Parts, a Paris-based outfit, organizes play readings in English and in French at Carr's Pub (1 rue du Mont Thabor, 1e, Métro Tuileries). They are always on a Sunday and always start at 19h30. The program is subject to change but the latest for the second half of 2006 is the following.

10th.September : William Whitehurst : title tba (in English)
24th.September : N.C.Heikin : "FE-MAIL" (in English - 2nd reading)
8th.October : Quentin Ochem : "Le Sacre de Frankenstein" (in French)
22nd.October : Jonus : "The Turnip Truck" (in English)
TWO DATES AVAILABLE IN NOVEMBER
3rd.December : Kenneth Hickey : "The Rose" (in English)

The most up to date program can be found at www.scamparis.com. Email Stephanie Campion at stef@movingparts.org.uk to receive monthly mailings. If you want to have your play read, contact Stephanie at 06 14 67 18 58.

Expat Meet Up groups in Paris

There are various expat groups in Paris hosted on meetup.com. They usually meet at least once a month for cocktails, dinner or a picnic and many organize other events.

Expats Paris: This group includes expats from around the world, some in Paris for short stints and some for decades. Most have a lot in common, starting with carte de séjour stories and going from there. expat.meetup.com/1/

Expat Brits: Totally informal and open to any expat Brits, friends, and anyone else who'd like to go out in Paris and share their ideas, thoughts, stories on anything in Paris. brit.meetup.com/16/

Expat Americans: american.meetup.com/16/

Expat Canadians: Everybody is welcome (even if you are not Canadian or don't know any Canadians). canadian.meetup.com/6/

Expat Aussies: aussie.meetup.com/19/

Paris International Association: Paris International invites people from all nationalities who are seriously interested in doing creative activities together including events like musical shows, fashion shows, langugae exchange for broader cross-cultural understanding. expat.meetup.com/88/

PAN brings together university graduates for professional and social networking

The Paris Alumni Network is a non-profit organization that brings together university graduates for professional and social networking. PAN hosts social, cultural and educational events, and provides services to members relating to their work and leisure activities. These activities are complemented by a newsletter, Panache, mailed to members every two months, a yearly printed directory of members, and a web site. Thanks to the skills and talents of its active Board and membership, PAN is a vibrant group in the Paris community. www.pan-paris.org

American Library in Paris hosts diverse cultural events and programs

One of the Library's most popular programs, a tradition since the 1930s, is the "Evenings with an Author" series. Dating back to the early days of the Library, this series has featured some of the most prominent writers of the 20th century. Another interesting series is "Evenings with an Expert". A recent event (24 May 2005) featured Peter Linton, the Brussels-based Europe Chairman of BKSH, who talked about how the European Union is governed and the proposed constitutional changes. The "Author" and "Expert" events usually start at 20h00 and are free and open to the general public. There are also many other programs designed for children and musical events are also held from time to time. www.americanlibraryinparis.org

Funkymaps: the definitive guide to the Paris pub scene

This site features pub and bar news, an exhaustive What's On listing of pub events including monthly top ten Musn't Miss events, TV sport listings, and recommended pub crawls. www.funkymaps.com/funkyparis

Craigslist: the mother of all local community classifieds

Craigslist was started in early 1995 by Craig Newmark in San Francisco, California. It quickly became the leading alternative place to find a job, housing, goods & services, a social life, advice, and just about anything else. About 8 million people all over the world use craigslist each month. The Paris site started in 2004 (version française bientôt disponible). paris.craigslist.org

Franglo: free classifieds for Anglophones in France

From the Franglo website: "Franglo Classifieds is the new service for Anglophones & Anglophiles in France and around the world. Franglo Classifieds lets you read and post small ads (petites annonces) for free. There are dozens of different categories, and it's fast and easy to publish your own ads. We started Franglo Classifieds because we saw that there was a real need for a free, easy-to-use classified advertising resource for the English-speaking community in France. But Franglo Classifieds isn't just for English-speakers, and it isn't just for people living in France. Franglo Classifieds is for anyone who wants to connect with the international community in France, England, the USA, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand and elsewhere." www.franglo.com

MeetYou: community and services website for anglophones and expats

This new site has announcements, classifieds and forums. It also includes language exchange listings, an expat information center, a real estate center and a business & jobs center. You must register to gain full access to all the content. Members get to see listings of member events and meetings. www.meetyou.fr

The American Women's Group: social and cultural events for English speaking women

For over 50 years, The American Women's Group has provided social and cultural events for English speaking women. Classes, tours and gatherings offer an opportunity for English speakers in Paris to experience and appreciate the many wonderful things France has to offer while making friends and having fun. Membership in the American Women's Group is open to all English speaking women. You must be a member to participate in events. Partial year memberships are available. www.awgparis.org

American Women's Group
32, rue du General Bertrand
75007 Paris France
01.42.73.36.74
awgparis@wanadoo.fr

Garden Brunch: every other Sunday in the summer

During the summer months, Bernard Navelet organizes brunches in a wonderful large garden every other Sunday from 11h30 to 16h00. Check on the website to find out which Sundays. The first summer brunch of 2005 is scheduled for the 15th of May. Note: during the winter months, Bernard also holds inside brunch and barbecue events at his home in the 7eme.

Cost is approximately 20 euros. Reservations are necessary and can be made via Bernard's website or by telephoning 06 13 26 96 94. www.lessoireesdu7eme.com

Les ARTpéritifs-Buffets combine art and entertainment

The concept is simple: with other convivial guests meet with an artist to discuss their works while tasting wine and eating from a buffet. As a bonus, at every event there's the chance to win an original work of art.

Organized by Bernard Navelet, the ARTpéritifs are held the last Thursday of each month from 19h00 to 23h00. Cost is 18 euros (students 15 euros). Reservations are necessary and can be made via Bernard's website or by telephoning 06 13 26 96 94. Part of the proceeds are used to sponsor two orphanages in Togo and Tibet. www.lessoireesdu7eme.com

Top Média Club - an informal gathering for people in the media

The Top Média Club meets on the last Wednesday of the month at Carr's pub (1, rue du Mont Thabor, Metro Tuileries) from 20h00 to about 22h00. There's no charge and reservations are not necessary but it's wise to check with the organizers that the meeting is happening as usual. Just turn up, buy your own drink, and network with your fellow media folks.

If you wish to be on the Top Média Club mailing list, send your address, e-mail address, telephone numbers etc. to robertie@aol.com.

Over 70 wide-ranging Meetup.com groups in Paris

Time Magazine wrote this about Meetup.com: “A convenient, non-threatening way to connect to other people who share similar interests and live nearby.” Originating in the US, Meetup.com now supports communities all over the world including Paris. The goal is to help form lasting, influential, local community groups that regularly meet face-to-face.

“No matter what your interest, there's a Meetup for you.” reported the Chicago Tribune and the remarkable variety of over 70 meetup groups already established in Paris confirm this. Here's just a small sampling: Les Parisians Designer Graphistes, Asperger's Syndrome, English-speaking Nannies, English-speaking Roleplaying Gamefreaks, Sense Of Life Objectivists, "Save The Banana Stand From France", Paris Against Bush, Paris Anglophile, Paris Burlesque. www.meetup.com

Canadian Clubs monthly bilingual exchange pub night

You don’t have to be Canadian to join the Canadian Clubs monthly bilingual exchange pub night, every last Wednesday of the month at The Great Canadian Bar, Quai des Grands Augustin, 6th. (RER B/RER C/Metro 4 St Michel) from 8pm. Conversation in French, English, and Franglais accompanied by hot wings and Happy Hour beers. No reservations needed, look for them at the far end of the bar. Next 2005 meeting is Wednesday, July 27. Email clubcanadaparis@wanadoo.fr to confirm location and future dates.

EuroNet connects international professionals with a global perspective

Founded in Washington DC, EuroNet aims to connect creative and influential people through high-profile social events, speaker engagements, cultural events and community service. There are chapters in London, Helsinki, Paris, and San Francisco.

From the EuroNet website: "EuroNet International is a unique organization for connecting International Professionals and individuals with an interest in diverse cultures and global issues. Founded in Washington DC, Euronet International is in a special position to bring together creative and influential people through high-profile social events, speaker engagements, cultural events and community service. Currently, we have chapters in London, Helsinki, Paris, and San Francisco and new affiliates are currently being added." www.euronetinternational.com/euronet

ExpatContact brings together young expat professionals at fun social events

Launched in 2001 by business school friends, this organization caters to young expat professionals in Paris. A variety of fun social events are held every month.

From the ExpatContact website: "For Cool & Young Professional Expats! Founded in early 2001 by friends from an international business school, ExpatContact exists to: (1) welcome expat professionals into a vibrant expat community; (2) bring expats together at cocktails, parties, gala balls, wine tastings, karaoke, salsa or pub nights, picnics, squash tournaments, paintball, go-karting, laser tag, ski or sailing trips, etc.; (3) let expats discover and be welcomed as VIPs at the best bars & restaurants in town; (4) help when we're looking for expat jobs, housing, sports partners, travel buddies, etc.; and (5) enable us to help others via reputable local or international charities." www.expatcontact.com

EuroCircle informal network of European professionals

EuroCircle has outposts in major cities all over the world, each with its own flavour. The Paris chapter attracts an eclectic mix of people and has Happy Hour gatherings and other social events at least once a month.

From the EuroCircle website: "EuroCircle is an informal network of European professionals. It has no political, religious, or ethnic affiliations. It is a place where ideas, thoughts and information are exchanged freely between all European and non-European individuals, companies and other institutions. All of the EuroCircle activities are run by enthusiastic volunteers." www.eurocircle.com

Paris Soirées: convivial dinners with guest speakers held every Sunday and Wednesday

From Particia: “Patricia Laplante-Collins has international dinner parties on the Ile St-Louis. There is always a guest speaker, perhaps a Writer, Actor, Historian -- you name it, Patricia hosts them all. Patricia is proud to have a 21st Century Parisian Salon. Her mission is to simply enlarge your circle of acquaintances in a safe and stimulating atmosphere while promoting Cultural Achievement, The New Age and Paris Personalities. And it's fun! Patricia's place is the gathering place for the International Community of Paris. Enjoy! Discuss! Meet new and interesting people.”

The Sunday soirées start at 18h30 and there is a charge of 20 euros. Call or email for details and entry code. Confirmed reservations are necessary.

Patricia also holds a Business Networking Cocktail Buffet event every Wednesday from 18h30 to 20h30. A guest speaker is invited to give a short talk on some relevant topic. Wine and canapes are provided and also Pasta of the Day for those who want to stay after the talk. Patricia suggests bringing lots of business cards to exchange with others. There is a charge of 15 euros. Call or email for details and entry code.

Patricia Laplante-Collins
14, rue St Louis en L'Ile
75004 Paris
01.43.26.12.88
parissoirees@noos.fr
www.parissoirees.com

Jim Haynes' Sunday Dinner Soirée: a 30 year-old institution

Unbelievably, Jim Haynes has been hosting a soirée in his 14e arrondissment atelier virtually every Sunday for the last 30 years. Around 50 to 80 people from all over the world are usually in attendance, most for the first time, chatting in multiple languages, supping wine and eating the buffet dinner. In warm weather the gathering spills over into the pleasant landscaped area outside.

Call Jim on Saturday or Sunday for reservations, directions and entry code. Reserve your place early in the summer as the balmy evenings can be very popular. Telephone 01.43.27.17.67. Email jim_haynes@wanadoo.fr

Jim Haynes, Atelier A2
83, rue de la Tombe Issoire, 75014 Paris
www.jim-haynes.com

Café Metropole Club: a virtual club that welcomes the world

The Café Metropole Club has been meeting at the La Corona café near the Louvre virtually every week since October 1999. A product of the imagination of Ric Erickson, a long-time resident of France, the club attracts Parisians seeking a cozy English natter and visitors from all over the world who read Ric's online "Club Report" each week and dream of Paris. Many actually finally get to Paris and turn up at the Club café for an afternoon drink and a mingle. Those that don't, settle for Ric's wide-ranging report that touches on all topics known to man but in particular the latest weather in Paris. www.metropoleparis.com

US Embassy's famous Blue Book Guide for U.S. Citizens Residing in France

The material provided in the Blue Book, Guide for U.S. Citizens Residing in France, has been compiled to provide Americans living overseas with information and assistance concerning administrative and personal matters. A veritable treasure trove of useful information.

If you don't find the information you need, you can contact the Office of American Services by e-mail at citizeninfo@state.gov. In emergency situations always call 01 43 12 22 22.

Setting up a Club or Association in France

Many expats are keen to set up an association - a sports team, a cultural group, or a social club. A French law, the 'Loi de 1901', is designed to facilitate the move and provides for the advantages, not least fund-raising, of being a legal entity. Simon Coss explains how it works in this Expatica article.