Each time I field the question, “do you think you’ll move back to the States?”, I hesitate. I feel tremendous guilty about my answer and verbalizing it only gives it more weight; makes it more real. No, I don’t think we will. My reasons are numerous but one of the factors, aside from wanting to stay where I can speak French at all times, is transportation. The only time I ever get behind the wheel these days is during annual trips stateside but surprisingly the skill (along with parallel parking-induced anxiety) returns the instant my key enters the ignition. My hands and feet know just what to do despite months of inactivity.
While I enjoy a good drive with the windows down, the music turned up and a fresh smoothie positioned snuggly in the cup holder, I’d much rather take public transportation for its ease, efficiency and eco-friendliness (note: did you know that body heat generated in the Paris metro will to be used to warm a public housing project near Beaubourg this year?). Excluding cities like San Francisco, New York, Chicago and D.C. which boast widely used subway systems, most of America is behind when it comes to accessible, affordable and well…
