Ep 4: France: Priscilla Giovanny’s Journey from Remote Working, Marriage, to Building a Side Business

Welcome to another episode of Indos Across Borders, the podcast where we dive into the unique stories and experiences of Indonesians living abroad. Today, we’re joined by Priscilla Giovanny, a Web and Graphic Designer at AppAsia Berhad, who also runs a thriving side business as a lash technician at Lavinia Beauty & Wellbeing in Voiron, France. In this episode, Priscilla shares her story of moving from bustling Kuala Lumpur to the serene foothills of the French Alps, where she discovered not just a new country, but a new lifestyle.

In this episode, we discussed:

• How Priscilla left Kuala Lumpur after meeting the love of her life, a Frenchman, and her transition to a slower, more peaceful life in Voiron
• The requirements of navigating the French visa process for marriage, and the patience it demands
• Priscilla’s unexpected passion for skiing, a hobby she picked up after moving to the French Alps
• Cultural differences in daily life—how booking appointments and handling schedules in France is far slower and more formal compared to the fast-paced efficiency of Indonesia
• The importance of doing your homework before moving abroad: why it’s essential to research the realities of living in a new country and not just romanticize the experience based on social media
• How learning new skills can lead to unexpected opportunities, just like Priscilla’s journey from graphic design to becoming a lash tech at a local beauty salon

 

"Living abroad isn’t always how it’s romanticized on social media. Stay patient, pursue your passions, and prepare ahead to avoid culture shock." - Priscilla Giovanny

 

Connect with Priscilla:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

 

Find her work here:

• Lavinia Beauty & Wellbeing
  
• Instagram: Lavinia Beauty & Wellbeing

 

Listen on Spotify