Franglish is also a new language exchange event taking place in bars across Paris each week. Brainchild of Nicolas Saurel and Steven Annonziata, two childhood friends from France who studied in the UK, Franglish offers the opportunity to practice both languages in a laid-back environment.

The idea, of course, is not to mix the two in the same sentence, as I often do. The set up is one-on-one conversation on even terrain: 7 minutes in French. 7 minutes in English. Switch partners and repeat.

Curious as to whether this was a straightforward language exchange or some form of bilingual speed dating, I made my way to L’Autre Cafe in the 11th where Franglish holds its Sunday events. I steeled myself for awkwardness as it seemed a distinct possibility: Talking to strangers? Shifting languages? Time limit? (Ack!)

Turns out, I had a whole lot of fun. The vibe was relaxed and the crowd casual. This type of event obviously draws open-minded folks who like to talk to people from different backgrounds. Everyone knows there will be varying levels, so pressure is nil.

For 10 euros, you get entrance into the event, a drink, and (at least) 2 hours of bilingual conversation (people seem to linger).

Then you start in on the conversational exchange. You’re assigned a table in the beginning, and depending on how they organize it, you either stay put after the 14 minutes or move to another table. (The first time it was the Francophones who switched each time. My second visit to a new venue in the 19th, I switched).
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