There is a quiet, beautiful city called Pontoise in the northwest suburb of Paris, France. The city is known for its aesthetic landscapes, which notable Impressionists such as Camille Pissarro in the 19th century once painted. Residents are proud of their city, which has a long history stretching from the Middle-Ages.

It was eight years ago that Pontoise-grown Frederic Jourdan first came to Japan to teach French in Kobe. Before that, he had worked for an audit firm in Paris for two years following graduation. "But I had been feeling unsatisfied, personally and professionally," he explains. "I think I needed more discovery and excitement."

Even though he couldn't communicate in Japanese at the time, Mr. Jourdan, who now speaks fluent Japanese, says that his impression about Japanese people has always been good: "Compared to people in my country, Japanese people are more communicative, easygoing (some have told him that's because he was in Kansai), and peaceful. And they are always eager to try new things to improve themselves," says Mr. Jourdan.

However, he sometimes has hard time understanding the tendency that Japanese women are expected to act somewhat immature and even goofy. "Maybe it's the influence of what Japanese TV emphasizes," he comments, "but in France, women are taught to be independent and intellectual." He thinks that Japanese women could more openly perform to their ability if Japanese society were to become a bit less conservative.

After working for a few months as a French teacher in Kobe, he moved to Tokyo to work at a wine and spirits company, which he eventually left. Speaking of Tokyo life, he says "I am obviously happy about the good quality transportation network, many convenient stores, and all the ways to go out and have fun."
 
"Besides, the energy required to enjoy all of that is huge," he continues. "Tokyo is perfect for singles, young and active people. I may be no longer single, and older than eight years ago, but I'm fortunately still active!"

Now, he is Finance and Administration Director of Club Med, the worldwide specialist in all-inclusive, upscale, friendly, and multicultural vacations. His responsibility covers accounting, tax, legal and financial management for their two villages in Hokkaido and Okinawa, and five sales offices in Japan.

"I have a good team that includes multicultural Japanese employees in Tokyo, speaking English or French, and foreigners in the villages who can communicate very well to each other, thanks to worldwide established Club Med processes."

He nevertheless sometimes feels confused about Japanese work system. "Anybody should be replaceable to take long holidays, for instance," he points out. "I am pushing people to change their habits and take new responsibilities. Regardless of seniority, empowerment within our common vision has developed somewhat in Japan, but it was quite tough for it to be accepted at the beginning!"

Mr. Jourdan believes that tolerance is the key to enjoying a different culture: Instead of complaining, he has tried to enjoy situations where he faces things that are difficult to understand. His flexibility and suave have also helped others to accept him.

He married a Japanese woman named Shiho about a year and half ago. Although he wasn't planning to have a wedding ceremony at first, he says his wedding day was unforgettable. "I was proud of the way my Japanese family-in-law welcomed my family and friends from France."

In the future, he might have to leave Japan for his work, but without hesitation, he says, "I am sure I will come back."