Hi There --

I am seriously considering moving to Paris in a couple of months -- as a sabbatical from my career. It's something I've always wanted to do. Ideally, I'm planning to stay from 4-6 months, learn to speak French, absorb the local culture, explore museums, learn more art history and eat my way to find the best croissants in Paris.

To that end, I had some questions for all of you --

Re: work -- is it possible to get some freelance work (perhaps teaching English) that won't require a formal EU work permit? I have a degree in English Lit.

Re: moving with pets -- I'd like to explore the possibility of bringing my dog w/ me. Have any of you done that? How complicated is it? Is a quarantine mandatory? He's a boxer-mix (80 lbs.).

Re: language schools -- Is there a school that you recommend for adult students? I looked into the Sorbonne (may require student visa).

Basically, I want to make the move with involving as little bureaucracy as possible -- thinking of it more as an extended vacation rather than a move. Though I'm not opposed to it turning out to be a permanent situation.

My main motivation is to take a break from my career (non-profit fundraising, international humanitarian relief) and explore a dream. I am in my late 30's. single. no dependents other than my lovebug Jake the dog. I have traveled internationally extensively and have been to France several times. I don't know much French at all (other than some food terms) and am conversant in Spanish & Armenian and fluent in English.

I appreciate your input on all of this. Particulary from those of you who have made the move from the states to France (Paris, in particular).