Thanksgiving is a holiday that conjures up many fond memories for me—and not just the typical ones. Growing up in Wisconsin, I experienced the traditional United States version of Thanksgiving, with a turkey and dinner table surrounded with family.
As a young adult my world expanded. In college, I was surprised to learn my Canadian friends celebrated the holiday on the second Monday in October. In the years following my studies, I had opportunities to spend Thanksgiving in Norway (just another day), Ecuador (we made turkey sandwiches) and India (forgot to plan ahead and the stores closed—we only found some old bread to eat that day!)
The year I lived on mainland China, a few local restaurants catered to ex-pats—serving turkey with egg rolls along with other various unnamed delights. The most adventurous I got was swallowing some congealed duck blood.
But who does culinary delights better than France? While teaching, I spent a month of November living with a host French family. They wanted to make me feel at home and eagerly quizzed me on the menu to be prepared for their “first” Thanksgiving. I’m happy to report the turkey was tasty, the dressing divine, and the champagne—ooh la la!

Arlene Anderson writes about cross-cultural experiences and most recently published an inspiring travel memoir, “Hard Fall, High Bounce.” She is a singer/songwriter who now lives in Maryville, Tennessee.