Tag Archives: France

Life

La-La-Lockdown

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Here we sit in 2020 with great hope and anticipation for an amazing year ahead. Thankful to say Good riddance to 2019. And yet oddly enough, here we are on the eve of isolation and lockdown. We haven’t experienced anything like this before and it seems this new change is not only quickly approaching but is here. Right here. Right now. Never having to minimize our lifestyle, nor certainly not remaining with our 4 walls for an extended period of time. As we, as a society, simply never shut down. Business and work ethic is seemingly inherent in our veins. Our DNA. Like it or not, that has been the legacy of America.  So now what? What is one expected to do when the world has come to a screeching halt?! Stay at home you say?

How does life go on….now that we’re on lockdown? Americans have always been known to be big consumers and with that comes supply, demand and plenty of options. Options for days. For anything and everything. From products to dating- we have come to expect options in every aspect of our life. Shop in the grocery stores now with little to no options, certainly is a lesson within itself. And dare I discuss the issue of toilet paper? I digress….
This may not be a big deal in say, France, where if you’re in the market for a bar of soap, you may have a few options. That’s it, C’est Tous. It is what it is. And to be honest, do you really need 543 different types of soap? Now, let’s be clear, I’m by no means saying I’m not a girl who loves her options…I certainly do. However, it’s times like these that we realize the excessive ways in which we live.  The times like these when our shelves of supplies are cleared out and there simply are no options whatsoever. (Once again excessive- only in this case, hoarding for hoarding sake.) We need to find balance in all this recently disrupted and ever-adjusted way of life. And hopefully find also a replenished stock of toilet paper and hand sanitizer!

How can we learn and LIVE from our global neighbors who have already been on lockdown? Well, for starters, The Italians have ALWAYS known how to live. And this time is certainly no exception. In fact, it only further demonstrates how much they embrace the joy of living each and every moment. Singing on the streets together while locked in their homes to avoid the spread of the virus. Instead spreading notes and words of cheer in moments of despair. Inspiring themselves, one another, and in the process the entire globe. This time of coming together as humanity is long overdue. Although this moment brings with it heartbreaking tragedy and daily news to reflect this, I believe this is also offers us an incredible opportunity to grow stronger together in a more connected, conscious and loving way. Maybe share a roll of TP with a stranger? My hope and belief is that we will see great gestures of love and humanity rise to the occasion. A girl can dream. And I encourage everyone of you to do the same. It takes a world to heal the world. With wishes for good health and good cheer, friends. 

Life

Homecoming

For as long as I can recall I’ve had what was before a bit of a quiet obsession with France.  Growing up with a Grandfather who traveled the world a zillion times.  Even going to Epcot at DisneyWorld meant that I could finally make my way to my beloved.  (Or at the very least, a kids view of what Paris must be like).  Then the weekend of my 21st birthday I found my dream of going to Paris finally fulfilled.  I honestly cried when I made my way out of the Metro for the first time to find the L’arc de Triumphe so graciously welcoming me to her city.  Studying in England allowed me to discover Europe, the joys of traveling and most importantly the incredible freedom I feel when traveling.  This is where it all began for me.  Thankfully for years following I often found myself vacationing in France.  From dating a head Chocolatier and touring France with he and his family to moving there on my own in my late 30’s- just two years ago, Ahem….

The other night I decided I needed my “fix.”  Time to get home, I felt.  So, just like that- trip purchased and excitement in my heart.  I’m going home!!  It’s not about going to see the “typical Parisian hotspots” it’s about just being.  There.  To walk those streets fills me beyond belief.  There are no words to explain the feeling I get in that beautiful place.  Much of the time I’ve spent in Paris have been just me, myself and I.  Perhaps that’s part of the reason I love it so much.  For I love to get up, grab a noisette and a baguette and hit the streets.  From its diverse landscape of cultures and people, to the most divine architecture and layout- Ohhhh Paris how I love thee.  I’m anxiously awaiting the morning smell of the boulangerie baking some of the most succulent treats to be found around the globe.  Walking through pristine gardens that offer hours of relaxing moments to yourself or to cherish the laughter of children and families playing by your side.  Not to mention Paris at night- truly magical.  Something about the soft lighting, tree lined streets accented by classic Haussmann buildings.  You know you’re experiencing some of the best of history under the soft light of this spectacular city…and often under the shining beam coming from the Eiffel Tower.  C’est magnifique!

Culture, Life, Travel

an American in Paris

For many years, my traveling has been ever growing and expanding into new countries, new areas across the globe.  Though I must say I’ve always had a love for France, even before ever arriving for the first time.  And yet, it’s a constant theme that comes up in my life.   Then once I decided to “move to Paris” for a while, the signs continued to be more apparent and consistent.  Signs of Paris were everywhere.  Perhaps I’ve succumb to subliminal messaging that lead me to Paris for my 3 month sojourn, and however it ended up happening, it will by far be one of the best gifts I’ve even given myself.  The time and freedom to LIVE.  And to live it up in one of my favorite places on earth, Paris.

After booking a one way ticket to Paris, not knowing anyone or even knowing how long I would truly stay, I boarded an American flight to CDG knowing I was about to embark on a life changing adventure.  And at the time I simply thought of it as time to enjoy life, no expectations, no goals needing to be fulfilled- other than taking in all that his incredible city had to offer.  And that’s exactly what I did!

Upon my return, I’ve had many ask me for an itinerary around the city of Lights.  Though in reality, Paris has so much to offer that it’s a bit of a tough question to answer without giving a little bit of all of it.

From the world famous museums and world class cuisine, to the art of simply sitting street side in a cozy cafe watching this bustling city, overwhelming you with it’s beauty and history.

However, there are many musts in Paris.  Although I absolutely love wandering around aimlessly to be sure not to miss a thing (Clearly I’ve got some FOMO when it comes to this place) you must ride the metro.  It’s so convenient and fairly simple to make your way from neighborhood (arrondissements) to another.  And considering this city has so much to offer, you want to be sure to maximize your trip by letting the efficient metro system guide you around Paris’s underground.  A few MUSTS on my list:

  1. An afternoon spent leisurely winding your way up and down the historic hills of Montmartre.
  2. Tea at the Grand Mosque….along with a sweet treat.  A heavenly way to relax and enjoy your day in the Latin Quarter.
  3. This goes without saying…a jaunt up the Tour Eiffel.  I mean…you ARE in Paris after all.
  4. Rent a Velib bike.  It’s such a fun and exciting way to see the city.  At times a bit sketchy, riding along the traffic of the city….though a great adventure, just the same!
  5. A cocktail at sunset at the stunningly beautiful, Peninsula Hotel- gorgeous views and if there’s a chill in the air, they offer cozy warm throws to ensure your experience is truly top notch.
  6. If time allows for a day excursion out of Paris:  Versailles and Giverny.  At Versailles you can explore Napoleon’s former home, gardens, and more.  You could spend an entire day simply within the grounds at Versaille alone.  Touring the palace is another day in itself. Or head off to the incredibly small and charming place of Giverny where Claude Monet called home and painted some of his most noteworthy and visually stimulating masterpieces.
  7. Jazz Night in Paris.  Take a step back in time to enjoy one of the best neighborhoods to listen to some jazz at any of the numerous clubs located at Chatelet.  Around this area you will find a slew of jazz clubs and plenty of bars to keep you entertained ’til the wee hours of the morning.
  8. The Catacombs….although rather creepy and bizarre and oddly a site I was eager to explore.  This estuary is the burial site for over 6 million.  It is said that more people are buried underneath Paris that live above it.  Going down in the depths of the catacombs is an experience within itself.
  9. Although it sounds so cliche, simply sitting at a cafe for hours is still one of my favorite “things to do” in Paris.  You get to see the diversity, the excitement, the style of the city walk by while you sip away on some delicious rose?  Not a bad way to enjoy life in general, I’d say.
  10. Museums, Museums, Museums.  Paris is home to some of the most sensational art collections around the globe.  Save yourself the agony of the insane lines that tend to be a part of the museum experience.  Book your ticket in advance on-line.  Trust me.  Pre-planing makes for maximization of your time…and your sanity.
  11. And since it’s not my style to only give the minimum…one more is necessary.  A visit to Parc des Buttes Chaumont is a beautiful treat.  A simply gorgeous park that also plays home to Rosa Bonheur, a quaint little bar in the heart of the park.  Perfect way to spend an evening in the park, with a delicious bottle of rose.  Incredible date spot or a memorable night out with friends.  Highly recommend.

Above and beyond a few highlights, simply take a few moments to let yourself get caught up in the music of the underground.  Some of the most talented and gifted musicians play throughout the stations to further inspire you along on your adventure.  There is so much to savor in Paris- from the flavors, to the sights, to feeling the history as you stroll past the architecture that seems to be untouched after all this time.  The reality is that Paris is there to offer you whatever you want…it’s up to you to dive in with reckless abandon and let the city show you all you seek.  Enjoy the adventure, mes amies!!

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Fashion, Travel

A day of Iconic history and fashion…then again, it IS Paris.

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Yesterday, I had an overload of stunning handbags, as I went to the original Goyard boutique on Rue St. Honore, as well as a visit to Rue Cambon, to the original and mind blowing Chanel store (which just also happens to be where Coco herself resided, and now also houses Karl Lagerfeld’s office on the 3rd floor)  Talk about feeling the love for Chanel!

I decided after living in Paris for close to 3 months, it was time to indulge.  And indulge I did.  My original intent was to finally purchase the signature Goyard tote as a sweet souvenir to return home with.  However, I instead treated myself to a little something at Chanel and topped it off with a little champs in-store, to officially celebrate this fine day.  There’s something truly special to the service offered in these boutiques.  No wonder people come back for more, as you’re truly queen for the day.  Or at the very least, while splurging!

Spending time at the original Chanel store offers more than beautiful couture, it offers a rich history into one of the most prestigious brands in the world.  Knowing Coco spent time here, diligently deliberating over every detail to ensure the highest quality and fashion is enough to inspire any fashionista.  Every detail in ensuring the most welcoming visit to the store, even includes fitting rooms that just may happen to be larger than your petite hotel room!  Along with a gorgeous Chanel robe to sport, in between fittings, of course.  Hands down, the entire experience is simply, Tres chic!

After having the chance to spend an afternoon with some of the best brands in Paris and certainly some of the best shopping offered on Rue St. Honore, it was time to give thanks for enjoying some incredible materialistic finds by spending some time at the historic La Madeleine.  La Madeleine is a historic Catholic church located nearby in the 8th arrondissement.  Luckily, I stumbled in just as service was starting.  Being there to hear the prayers and hymns in french was a unique and powerful experience in itself.  No better way to finish the day, than to be able to indulge in some of the best of Paris, through Couture,  then wrapping up the day by experiencing one of the most historic monuments in Parisian history.  An iconic day all in all.  Bon soir, my sweet Pareeeee!

 

 

Culture

Who takes the Bus?

When in Rio a few years ago, we took the bus to go from Leblon to Copacabana and to be honest I was a bit snobbish about it. I thought…Who takes the bus? However, my ignorance was based on the fact that Americans don’t often take the bus. Nor much public transportation for that matter. Especially in Southern California. The east coast, certainly a bit more, especially in the larger metro areas of Ny, Philly and DC. Though I’ve realize why. It’s highly inefficient there.

When working for Westfield I had a meeting in LA and refused to sit one more early and long morning in that insane 405 traffic. So I decided to take the train. Why not!  The train station is a mere two blocks from my little neighborhood of little Italy and seemed rather convenient and a nice experience. And it was. As For anyone who has taken the train along the Southern California coast will most likely agree that it is picturesque, as you travel along the spectacular coastline. However once you arrive in LA. That’s where the inefficiently comes into play. Upon arrival I had to then call an Uber to take a 45 minute ride to my office. And this was after 3 hours on the train. Mind you, without traffic LA is technically only a 2 hour drive. Though no traffic and LA really never go together. As I’ve even been stuck in traffic on the freeway in the middle of the night-Its that bad!
I arrived safely 4 hours later to my 4 hour meeting to then turn around and carpool with a colleagues for 5 hours home on the freeway. I’ve never been great with math though I can tell you that a 9 hour commute for a 4 hour meeting doesn’t seem to make much sense.  Put simply, that’s a commute that doesn’t compute!
So now. Here I am in Paris. No car. At the “mercy” of public transport. And I have to say I’m delightfully surprised at how well I’ve taken to it all!
For my final weeks of living in Paris, I’m residing in the “burbs” for yet another experience of my life in France. So, to get to the city of lights, I now either walk 30 minutes to the metro, or take a bus to the station, though you never quite know when it will show. Though I must say, it’s quite nice.  No worries about stressing on the freeway…Nutty drivers, commuters eating a breakfast burrito with one hand and applying mascara with the other. Just once in awhile, having to manage a fellow metro passenger nutcase.  And yes there are plenty of those. Nonetheless, it has been a delightful experience taking on the public transportation. And I can only hope that the states someday, somehow, someway find a way to offer efficient public transportation in future. Better for the environment and certainly better for our sanity!  Plus there’s often great entertainment in the corridors of the metro, even on the train themselves. Not to mention it’s been a great “life lesson” in seeing others be courteous to one another and showing random acts of kindness. Letting the elderly and or the ladies take their seat when the metro is packed like sardines or in helping an older woman bring her heavy suitcase up the metro stairs.  All of it truly warms my heart.  Manners….ahhh…oh so refreshing.  Now if only some of the smells on the metro were just as refreshing, we’d be fairly close to perfection!
Fashion

From LANCASTER to Paris with Lancaster Paris

I walked along Rue St Honore today to visit some of the most spectacular boutiques close to the Louvre, on my way to the Madeleine and I stumbled upon Lancaster, Paris!  How perfect is this brand for me, being I’m FROM Lancaster and now RESIDE in Paris?  I simply must have a bag from here!

Upon entering, it truly felt like a candy store for bag ladies like myself.  Every color you could imagine is offered here.  In lovely Italian Saffiano leather, these bags are truly exceptional and well priced, I might add.  This gorgeous green clutch (and messenger bag) as it comes with it’s very own matching leather strap was only 59 euro!  I’ve seen plenty of pleather bags that I wouldn’t pay anything for and are priced higher than this genuine leather beauty that will be with me for years to come!

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It’s tough for a gal like myself when there are so many truly beautiful options.  Not only in colors, but in shapes, sizes- envelope versus basic clutch…you see the dilemma!  And that’s just for their more standard collection.  Then, they have crocodile stamped leathers, or the just as fabulous- python options which were fabulous as well.  What’s a girl to do?  Thankfully I had some assistance.

Fabien, their very knowledgable associate, assisted me in not only further educating me on the brand, but also helping me choose the right option for me.  As it turns out, Lancaster Paris has been around for 25 years, offering lovely leathers mostly in France.  Good news for fellow Americans like myself, they have just opened showrooms in NY and LA so there’s hope that soon we, too, will have the opportunity to score some of these beautiful bags stateside soon!

 

Fashion

Scarfs and STRIPES forever *****

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Ok, so maybe not the Stars, though no doubt the Scarfs and the Stripes.  I’ve always thought of Parisians as wearing stripes, a beret and having a baguette in tow, each day.  And I have to say, I’m fairly close.  Maybe not so much the beret, but certainly stripes and baguettes.  And why wouldn’t you?  Paris by far, has the best bread around!  I honestly have no problem eating just a baguette for a meal, by itself-it’s That GOOD!  I’ve even heard they bake their baguettes with less glutens, which in my minds means it’s “healthy” and delicious….and guilt free!

Though as for the other French traditions it seems to be quite true. As I was a bit surprised to find that from Souvenir shops, to locals alike, Stripes can be seen everywhere in this town.  Which suits me just fine as I tend to think that stripes are just another Basic, like a plain colored tee.  I’ve historically not been much of a “print wearing kind of gal” that is until I started working with and representing brands like Custo Barcelona, Desigual and other International brands that have forced me to branch out of my traditional/classic mold.  Again, I was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania- not really a place where they honor and cherish fashion per se. Though I have to say that  I simply love the fact that Parisians love their stripes!

As for scarfs- yet another must have item while in Paris.  It tends to rain a fair amount here. Which, quite honestly was news to me.  So along with your handy dandy umbrella, a scarf is another essential. Not only to change up and add a little “Je ne sais quoi” but also as a way to cover your newly coiffed “Do” and/ or to cover up and keep you from the chill in the air, especially during a sporadic and almost always guaranteed rain storm. As you’re bound to get caught in one!  So embrace the romance of these refreshing storms, just don’t get caught out in one, or be prepared to do so.

Therefore, if you are to find yourself headed to Paris and are like myself, a big fan of stripes, be sure to pack them up, pack them in…and you’ll fit right in!  All you’ll need is a baguette, in your tote, to finish off the final look and you’re ready for Paris, my sweet!

A True Parisian sporting her stripes...and on a Vespa-perfection!
A True Parisian sporting her stripes…and on a Vespa-perfection!

In true French Fashion...a full family of stripes!
In true French Fashion…a full family of stripes!

Stripes on the rooftop of Gallerie Lafayette. Oh and the at our Eiffel from behind!
Stripes on the rooftop of Gallerie Lafayette. Oh and the at our Eiffel from behind!

Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the Grand Palais, Paris
Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the Grand Palais, Paris

Fashion, Travel

The coldest summer I’ve ever spent was not in San Francisco…

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For my lovely hometown of sunny San Diego, summer is in full swing…Even now in September!   I see many postings from back home, that the heat is simply unbearable for many local San Diegans.  The reality is, and as I’ve always said, summer truly begins in August and goes to at the very least, October in SUN Diego.   In fact, I can recall on many occasions during my fall fashion shows, having  to order several large fans as well as  personal fans for the attendees, so as not to break out into a sweat while checking out some of the best in fall fashion. A bit ironic, wouldn’t you say?

Though I must admit, I just spent the coldest summer I’ve known right here in Paris. Sure there were scorching hot days, especially when traveling via the Metro. However, for the most part, my summer wardrobe quickly expanded to being mostly jackets, long sleeves and pants. Yet another anomaly, as I don’t typically even wear pants back home in Southern California.  Although my nickname for years has been Franci Pants, and part of it due to the fact that I am never seen wearing pants. What can I say, I’m a dress wearing kind of gal. (Even growing up on the east coast, my poor mother would have to put pants on underneath my dresses as a child, as I simply refused to wear pants!)   However, just as the seasons change, so must this girl and her “dressing” habits!  As Paris has certainly changed me.  And it has taught me how to rock some amazing pants, at that!  This, in addition to wearing flats and tennis shoes every day, I’m a new woman…With Parisian influence of course!  I’m sure that my feet are thanking me, for this new way of living, considering the miles I used to walk daily, in my 5 inch heels.

So here I sit, in chilly Paris (now surrendering to the fact that it’s officially fall here), along with my new love of pants and a pair of…need I say it, actually comfortable shoes that don’t pain me?!   I have so much to thank Paris for on this incredible journey of living here over the last few months and I suppose that my feet and  my new wardrobe shall give a little  thanks as well.

The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco. – Mark Twain  (I’m sure if Mr. Twain were here with me, he would probably agree that it’s been a fairly chilly summer/early fall here in Pareeee)

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Fashion

Les Vendanges en Avenue Montaigne!!

Calling all Fashionistas, Mesdames et Messieurs!   A special evening, hosted by some of the best brands across the world, right here in Paris.

This is thee night, the night to discover all the new collections, from some of the best fashion houses….all on one street, Avenue Montaigne.  And this little American In Paris, just happened to be one of the lucky ones to enjoy this incredible soiree last Thursday.

It’s a night where some of the top global brands open their doors to showcase some of their best,  most luxurious items in-store.  All while serving up some of the tastiest treats, wine and of course, not to be missed toasting a glass…or two of the finest Champagne!

Our destination for the night was Salvatore Ferragamo.  I know, I know…I’m in Paris, though we decided to give our love to the Italians for this special occasion.

The red carpet was rolled out in it’s entirety to all those in attendance.  And this is certainly not a party to be missed!  I happened to fall in love many times this evening with several of the incredible pieces Ferragamo had on display and also those being modeled from the lovely ladies walking about the boutique.

From the finest leather accessories and shoes, to the wine and the macaroons, this evening will go down as one of the best nights in Paris, thus far.  Gracie Mille, Ferragamo for your phenomenal Italian hospitality right here in Paris!!

Here’s a taste of the evening and even a brief cameo from yours truly:

More information on Les Vendanges: http://www.avenuemontaigneguide.com/les-vendanges-jeudi-10-septembre-2015/

A special thanks to the incredible photographer, Emmanuel Doumic, for capturing some of our fun on this spectacular evening!