Audio: "Burnt Norton" by Lana Del Rey, a rendition of the original poem "Burnt Norton" by T.S. Eliot.
Where do I even start? Paris has wholly shaped me in ways I never imagined. We refer to Paris as the city of love, but I'm now more inclined to call it the city of art - which only leaves more room for love in your heart. There is so much to contemplate and appreciate in frequenting the vast array of art museums here - from the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, the Centre Georges Pompidou, and many more. Not only has my perspective on art expanded, but so has my worldview. That’s because art is truly everywhere in this city; art can be found in the walkable streets amidst the rich architecture, the fashionable outfits seen in daily life, and even the exquisite decor in stores and when you cheekily peek into Parisian appartments!
There's always something new to discover in Paris, I'm almost saddened at the thought of the things I've yet to discover or missed. The treasures to unveil in Paris move far beyond the typical tourist hotspots we all know and love. I am obsessed with Parisian boutiques; they are chic and unique (that unintentionally rhymed) in the best way possible. One of my favourites is La Tonkinoise à Paris, located in the 11th arrondissement. This particular arrondissmenet is the best in Paris to be honest, it holds a special place in my heart as I had the wonderful opportunity of living there, so perhaps you can say that I am somewhat biased. Still, I can confidently say that this animated, hip and creative neighbourhood is one everyone should have the chance to explore.
La Tonkinoise à Paris, owned by the lovely Chantal, is my favourite hidden gem in Paris. I had the pleasure of befriending Chantal as I ended up frequenting her store one too many times; I've garnered quite a collection over time. This boutique offers a wide range of eccentric and sustainable jewellery, with her earring creations being the show stoppers, in my opinion. Her jewellery is composed of rings, pearls, brooches, charms, and watches, all unearthed in flea markets and recycled. I love that every piece of jewellery indeed is a unique piece. The decor changes based on the season and theme of her new collections, making it an ever-changing and exciting shopping experience. This is honestly the best jewellery store I have ever been to in my life! I wish the pictures I took could do the jewellery and the boutique's decor justice, but it simply won't, I'm afraid.
Now, onto food, I genuinely need to figure out where to start here. My favourite authentic French restaurant would have to be 'Le Potager du Père Thierry', located in Montmartre. Although it's incredibly small, I love the cosy vibe; I feel like I can enjoy delicious food with friends without feeling surrounded by strangers. Surprisingly, it's also very quiet (yet packed) - I guess the food is just too distracting.
As of late, my favourite non-french restaurant has to be 'Big Black Cook' (let's ignore how inappropriate that pun is, though funny). It's located in the 2nd arrondissement and serves Caribbean food, my friend claims that it was the best meat she's had!
For brunch, I recommend Café Méricourt in the 11th arrondissement. Their green Eggs & Feta are absolutely incredible and quite innovative as far as brunch places go.
As for a boulangerie - seriously, anywhere, literally anywhere in Paris, go to your nearest bakery; there need not be a big fuss - you're in for a scrumptious baked treat regardless!
I'm ever so grateful for the chance to have lived in Paris for an extended period; you cannot appreciate Paris in its entire splendour from a mere short-term visit. The city is an actual work of art; art is everywhere in the city, from the street performers and musicians, the light filters through the trees, the city's many architecturally rich bridges, the picturesque cafés and boulangeries, the beautifully presented food, the way that the city's many different neighbourhoods each have their own distinct character and vibe. In Paris, art is everywhere.
- Vous habitez Paris ? demande Louise Ducreux.
- J'habite l'Espoir, répond le ténor poétique.
- Je ne connais pas, ça doit être dans un arrondissement à deux chiffres, dit Jacqueline.
Dans un roman qui fleure bon la nostalgie de l'enfance, Marie Sizun raconte ses jeunes années dans un appartement du XXe arrondissement. C'est là, dans le Paris de l'après-guerre, qu'elle a connu bonheurs et drames familiaux, c'est là qu'elle a grandi.
En deux mots
C’est l’histoire d’un petit appartement situé dans le XXe arrondissement de Paris. C’est la chronique d’une famille sans père, puis avec un père trop présent avant de disparaître. C’est l’histoire d’une mère célibataire avec un, deux puis trois enfants. C’est l’histoire d’une enfant puis d’une adolescente qui va chercher sa voie des années quarante aux années soixante.
Ma note
★★★★…
This is a writing exercise based on a scene. Prompt scene: A busy small neighborhood café in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Two old men each alone at his own table ate peacefully by themselves. One picked up fries with delicate fingers as the other spooned an ice cream sundae into his mouth, both protected and seemingly immune from the surge and retreat of customers around them. How long had…
Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world and an unforgettable encounter for any traveler. With its twenty arrondissements, Paris offers travelers many possibilities to explore – from some of the world’s best museums and galleries to delicious restaurants and unique boutiques.In this guide, we offer an overview of Paris’ arrondissements, from the unique atmosphere of Montmartre to the lively Latin Quarter. Explore the beautiful avenues of the Marais, or find inspiration at the diverse squares of the Bastille. No matter what kind of adventure you desire, diverse desires are accommodated in the magical city of Paris.
#Paris has 20 #neighborhoods. I have not been to them all, but you can via this #anthology film.
Not long ago we reviewed Paris, Je t’aime, about the neighborhoods of Paris. The following originally appeared on SERENDIPITY.
Paris, je t’aime, by Rich Paschall
Paris is divided into 20 neighborhoods or arrondissements. They are numbered with the 1st Arrondissement being in the center of old Paris. From there, they spiral out in an ever-widening circle until we get to number 20. The 1st…