Strasbourg: Final Stop on My French Adventure

Strasbourg is the fifth and final city on this adventure, and the 15th city I’ve visited to date. I haven’t been all over the world, but I’ve been lucky enough to experience Japan, London, France, Mexico, Canada, and many places throughout the U.S. I say this only to emphasize I haven’t seen every city in the world. But so far, my favorite place is still Santa Barbara. That said—Strasbourg is the most beautiful city I’ve ever seen.

I’m glad I didn’t come here first, because I might’ve just settled in without thinking through the logistics of working remotely in France while based in the U.S.

When Steve and I went to Paris, I told him I would’ve moved there in a heartbeat if I were in my twenties. If I were in my thirties, it would be Strasbourg. I don’t have a logical reason—just instinct. Strasbourg feels like a place I’d want to settle but still have fun. To live here permanently, I’d want to work in France and fully immerse myself. Working remotely doesn’t foster a sense of community, especially when you don’t speak the language.

Still, I have a month to soak in a city that’s so beautiful it makes my heart hurt. I will absolutely be back. In fact, I’m already planning a Christmas market trip—France and Germany, Christmas 2026! If you’re interested in a magical, beauty-filled holiday, let me know!

In just two days, I’ve taken at least 300 pictures. I’ve FaceTimed friends and family while walking the cobblestone streets—because I have to share it.

My apartment is in La Petite France, right above a famous cheese shop. Their charcuterie boards are TO DIE FOR. The apartment is light, bright, and somehow quiet—even in the heart of everything. The host left a giant dog toy, a water bowl, and treats for Copper, thoughtfully arranged. I think she might be the best host I’ve ever had. She lived in San Diego for a year, and we’re going to meet up when she’s back from holiday.

My first couple of days here were Sunday and Bastille Day, so most things were closed except restaurants—which meant a lot of aimless wondering. And it’s never not beautiful. One thing I’ve learned the hard way: you need a reservation for dinner. Every place is packed! It’s a scene. I’ve started organizing my trip—scouting restaurants, making reservations, and booking yoga classes. I’ve got an aerial restorative yoga class on Wednesday (yes, please!) and the Batorama boat tour booked for this weekend. I’m also plotting a day trip into Germany to soak in the thermal baths.

In just a few days, I’ve had more cheese and cream than in my entire two and a half months in France. I tried my first flammekueche (tarte flambé) at a random restaurant that looked too beautiful to pass up. I had no idea what it was—it’s basically an ultra-thin, pizza-like dish. Good, but heavy. I’ve already got two more flammekueche spots on my list, but I’ll be spacing them out. Last night, I tried chicken cordon bleu, and I’ve gotta say: that was the first French dish that made me queasy. Chicken stuffed with pork, covered in cheese? Nope. Not for me.

Gorgeous Restaurant I ate at on my first day

Tarte Flambé

Copper has already made friends at the little park just three minutes from our apartment. There’s a bigger park about an hour walk away—we tried walking there today but got rained out halfway through (note to self: never forget the umbrella in rain country). Still, it’s been lovely to rest while the summer rain comes and goes.

This is just funny. I totally emailed it.

Copper's new friend, Vania

Tomorrow, I have lunch reservations at The Drunky Stork Social Club, and with everything reopening, I imagine it’ll be a tourist-heavy day. I’ve already scoped out the art galleries, antique shop, and a few Christmas stores I will be stopping in to.

Back home in Santa Barbara, my sweet friend and coworker Katherine is picking up my apartment keys next weekend. I’m beyond excited to settle into my favorite place in the world. But right now, I’m in my sweet spot: enjoying this month in the most beautiful city I’ve ever seen, before heading home to the place that feels most like me.

These past few months haven’t been easy. But I’ve met wonderful people, had incredible experiences, and France has become a second home. Not one I’ll live in permanently—but one I’ll always return to.

Are your eyeballs tired of all the beauty yet?

Starting with Christmas 2026. Who’s in? Oh, and maybe be prepared for seeing the same pictures over and over again for the entire month. My eyeballs can’t adjust to the beauty, so I just keep taking pictures. Commence photo dump.

Notre Dame - Stunning

A very rain five minutes - that's the famous cheese shop!