Living in Lyon:
“I immediately felt at home”.
In April 2026, on the occasion of Inflexyon’s 20th anniversary, we interviewed people who trusted Inflexyon to teach them French. Coming from all countries and all generations, whether they have moved away from Lyon or settled there, here is what some of our students said about life in Lyon.
“I love most about France the cultural richness, the gastronomy, and the importance given to exchange and ideas. I often associate the French language and culture with values such as culture, reflection, and international openness. If I had to define the French language and culture in three words, they would be culture, openness, and elegance. In Lyon in particular, I really enjoy the city’s atmosphere, its human scale, its cuisine, and its position between city and nature.”
Josephine Kusi-Manu, Ghana
“Today, I love living in Lyon: it is one of my favourite places in the world, and I think I will stay here for many more years. What I love most here are the people, the architecture, the panoramic views, the different neighbourhoods, the gastronomy, and the variety of activities. The people of Lyon have always been very welcoming to me, and I immediately felt at home in this charming city.”
Julieta Matar, Argentina
“I love the city of Lyon, a human-sized city, very welcoming, where I was able to meet real friends. This explains how I gradually went from beginner level A1 to C2, confirmed by successfully passing the DALF C2 exam.”
Olga Figurak, Russia
“What I preferred in Lyon was the great diversity of cultural activities. There are always good opportunities throughout the year: museums, events… it is a particularly lively city.”
Alejandra de Hoyos, Mexico
“Learning was not limited to the classroom. We regularly went out into the city to practise, for example by asking passers-by about Lyonnais words and expressions. This made learning lively, concrete, and much more natural. I also have excellent memories of moments shared outside class, such as trips to the Musée des Confluences or the Christmas market. These experiences greatly contributed to my integration into Lyon and French culture. Today, I particularly appreciate life in Lyon, which offers a balance between professional demands, quality of life, and cultural and gastronomic richness. Of course, some administrative procedures can be complex, especially at the beginning. But with perseverance, everything becomes easier. If I had to give one piece of advice, it would be to come with a clear goal, fully commit to learning French, and above all not to give up. The effort is well worth it.”
Amna Al Bahrani, Oman