Say "French city" and most people think of Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux or perhaps Toulouse.
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It is all too easy to overlook Strasbourg, almost out of sight on the furthest eastern border with Germany, located in the historic Alsace region, but it is precisely this which gives it such an enticing international flavour - a beguiling mix of French and German culture, a vibe that comes from having the second-largest student population in France.
The city has changed hands multiple times and was German for more years than it has been French.
Today it is a true Franco-German melting pot. Some 20% of the student population (which approaches 60,000 in total) are foreigners.
When they hear your accent, no one in Strasbourg will ask where you are from: they are far more likely to ask what language(s) you speak.
Americans in Strasbourg
Connie Cadis, 63, and Laura Harlan, 62, are both from the US. Laura (from North Carolina) moved to Strasbourg three years ago, and Connie (from Oregon) has only been in Strasbourg a few months.
Both are retired from careers in education, and agreed that they did a lot of research before making the move.
"It is one of the big advantages," said Laura. "You save so much money not having a car. In the US I was spending so much on car insurance, gas, repairs, etc, but the public transport system here is wonderful, so you don't really need a car."
Laura Harlan and husband MikeLaura Harlan
Both chose to live slightly outside the city centre, mainly because of the crowds during the Christmas market.
"Compared to the US, housing here is affordable," they agreed. "And the healthcare system is fantastic. Health insurance is so much cheaper here, and you don't risk losing it if your circumstances change."
In Alsace, healthcare is even better reimbursed than in the rest of France. For example, consultations are reimbursed at 90% rather than 70%, and 'white ticket' prescription medications are reimbursed at 90% rather than 65%. This means that getting top-up insurance is cheaper in Alsace than in the rest of the country.
"We also shop in Germany just like everyone else in Strasbourg, which saves us a fortune. It is especially economical for cleaning and personal hygiene items. It is so easy. We go to the Lidl just over the border," said Laura.
Tram line D goes to Kehl in Germany for €3.20 return, which is the same price as any other return tramway ticket.
"The city is very well connected. It is a railway hub; you can get a train from Strasbourg to places all over Europe," said Connie. "I am planning to explore other countries as well as the rest of France."
They both also appreciate the weather.
"It doesn't get too hot in summer," said Laura, "and that was important for me. And the winters are not too cold."
Connie is thrilled to be hereConnie Cadis
Average daytime temperatures range from 5C in January to 26C in August. The annual rainfall is 26 inches a year, spread reasonably evenly throughout the four seasons.
"I'm thrilled to be here," said Connie.
"I used to envy students travelling to study in Europe, and now I'm finally doing it and it's even better than I expected. I came here thinking I'd just see how it goes, but Strasbourg is amazing. I wondered if I would feel isolated, but everyone is so friendly. I'm meeting new people, going out and exploring the city, and I'm already thinking I'll stay forever."
"Me too," said Laura. "I'm definitely staying in Strasbourg."
