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Hello Nina, can you tell us where you come from?
Bangkok, Thailand has been my home for 12 years prior to Lyon, although originally from near Manchester in the north of England.
What is the best way to prepare for moving to Lyon?
My first two months as soon as l moved here l attended a language school every day and lived with a host family. Beginning to learn French was my priority.
Why did you choose to live in Lyon?
I just picked it at random from a map!
How to deal with culture shock in Lyon?
After living in Asia where the culture is very different to Western culture, l didn't experience culture shock. I've soon accustomed to croissants over rice.
How to overcome difficulties during living in Lyon?
Its been challenging at times but its always other people that have helped me out. French people have been very kind and welcoming, plus there are lots of other people in the same situation as myself which is good to know.
What do you plan to do in Lyon ? What are your projects at the moment?
I'm a yoga teacher and have been teaching for 14 years. Everybody's body is uniquely different so l enjoy teaching tailor made private classes that suit each person's specific needs. I also do Ancient Thai Tok Sen massage which l learned in northern Thailand.
What are your favorite things to do in Lyon?
I'm always in Parc de la Tête d'Or. I practice yoga, run, walk and dream here.
What is your advice for people wishing to come and live in France?
If you're thinking of moving to France, do it! If you're thinking of starting a business, do it!
Is it easy to make new friends in Lyon?
Yes! There are many social groups to join. I've joined a Gaelic football team, joined a board game group, l do bootcamp in the parc, l attend picnics and apéros... there's loads to get involved in.
Do you hang out with locals or foreigners mostly?
My friends are a mix of locals and foreigners.
Is it easy to do networking in Lyon?
My best networking opportunity has been through Sojoourn, without a doubt. In one event l met loads of people interested in getting together and working together.
Where is your favorite place in Lyon to hang out with friends?
Parc de la Tête d'Or, Musee des Beaux Arts, the Croix Rousse and the James Joyce lrish pub.
Can you share with us, a memorable experience that you have in France?
Just walking around Lyon and falling in love with the place.
Do you have any tricks/tips to settle more easily in a new city?
A smile goes a very long way.
What have you learned from living abroad and about expat life?
Life is never dull and is full of exciting and new experiences.
A word or two to define Lyon!
Charming and delightful. Everything you imagine living in France to be.
A word or two to define Sojoourn!
Great community!
More about Nina
After living in Thailand for 12 years Nina has benefited from learning yoga with some incredibly knowledgeable teachers across Asia; from lndia to Vietnam, Bali to Sri Lanka and of course Thailand. Her Eastern approach to yoga emphasises 'being' rather than 'doing'. She is able to properly guide you through your practice or even kick start you in the right way if you are new on your yoga journey.
Enjoy yoga then eat cheese! Book an experience with Nina
Contact her
ninayogafrance@gmail.com
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