Discover Sophie
The unintended expat blogger behind PineVistaHollow
Photo: PineVistaHollow
Hi, I'm Sophie
I work as a project manager. A parent. An expat based in Paris, France.
Several years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a short-term assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
Origins
Relocating to France wasn’t part of the long-term plan. Like many expat moves, it began as a work opportunity and quickly became something much bigger.
The first months were intense — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.
Why I Built PineVistaHollow
Most information online was either corporate-level relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.
This site exists to close that gap — practical guidance based on real life in France.
What This Site Represents (And What It Does Not)
This site is:
- Practical insights from living in France
- Centered on family life and day-to-day realities
- Updated whenever there is a meaningful change
This site is not:
- Not a tourism authority resource
- Not a sponsored review platform
- Not a generic travel blog
Looking Ahead
Our time in France continues, and so does the learning process. As long as the information remains useful, I will continue recording what we learn.
If you have questions about family life in Paris or anywhere in France, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Best regards,
Sophie
Paris, France