I recently had a quick trip to Paris, 6 days on the ground. I went with a girlfriend, Nikki, and we landed in unusually warm weather, which meant walking was our go. We discovered lots of new arrondissements and stumbled upon quaint cafes and boutiques. But it’s the street fashion that really inspires me, capes are back!
This is what we did, ate and where we rested.
Rest
Relais Christine — an 17th century private mansion turned into a charming boutique hotel. I would stay here again if I was taking my sons… they have interconnecting rooms with mini kitchens.
Hotel Chateau Voltaire — think Chateau Marmont of Paris. The dreamy interiors were delightful. The beds super comfy and very central to everything.
Images by Sarah-Jane Clarke.
Shop
Samaritaine — the relatively newly renovated department store, we went there twice, first on day 1 with jetlag and then again when we were a little more together. There is something for everyone.
OFR book shop — a cool bookshop with vintage sweaters out the back.
Le Bon Marche — the first department store in the world, it has wonderful selection of French designer and luxury.
Dries Van Noten — left bank, I love the clothes and the interior in equal parts.
Image by Sarah-Jane Clarke.
Vintage shopping
Open Dressing — I bought a great 80’s YSL cardigan here.
Plaisir Palace — quirky and fun.
Anelia Vintage — great designer vintage finds.
Flea Markets
Port du Vanves — bric-a-brac, vendors selling an assortment of treasures from the back of their vans.
Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen — an oldie, but a goodie.
Images by Sarah-Jane Clarke.
Eat
L’Ecume Saint Honore — a cute little restaurant/fish shop selling fresh local produce. The freshly shucked oysters are everything.
Kasper — for caviar lovers. Try the potato with a dollop of caviar.
L’entincelle — watch the world go pass, while sipping on an afternoon drink.
Le Basilic — a charming little restaurant off the tourist trail.
Marche des enfant Rouges — this was a highlight, the oldest food market in Paris, dating back to 1615.
Gigi — very beautiful interiors with a lovely view of the Eiffel Tower.
Hotel Costes — quick lunch and even better people watching.
Image by Sarah-Jane Clarke.
Cultural and sightseeing
Picasso Museum — the building alone is glorious, but the Picasso pieces are irresistible.
The canals of Saint Martin — for some peace and calm, and a great weekend brunch.
Jardin des Tuileries — some time in nature is always a good thing.
Images by Sarah-Jane Clarke.
Can’t wait to return…There is so much more to do and see, a bientot Paris.
