🇫🇷 💌 The Paris Love Letter

FOUND IN PARIS
Fun & Useful Links

➡️ 10 things France does better than anyplace else: This CNN article humorously highlights the unique aspects of French culture that make it stand out globally. The article discusses how France excels in various areas, such as food, fashion, wine, romance, and more. It provides a comprehensive look at the French way of life, offering readers an insight into why France, and particularly Paris, is such a beloved destination.

➡️ A local’s guide to Paris: This Washington Post article provides a local's guide to Paris, offering insider tips on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat. It gives an authentic perspective on how to experience the city like a Parisian, from choosing accommodations to exploring local cuisine and attractions.

READER POLL

In this week's poll, we're curious to know which of these souvenirs you would love to take back from Paris. Your choice reflects not just a tangible item but an aspect of Paris that resonates with you. So, which of these souvenirs would find a place in your suitcase on your journey back?

CAFÉ CULTURE
A Century of Ideas: Café de la Rotonde

Ah, Café de la Rotonde—your quintessential Parisian experience that's so much more than sipping a latte and snapping a selfie. Imagine a room that's not just four walls but an atmosphere thick with the smell of ink and caffeine, infused with the intense passion of rebellious artistry and intellectual debates. This is the Paris I fell in love with—a city that tolerates and celebrates the unusual, the groundbreaking, and the avant-garde.

A Portal to the Roaring Twenties

Picture yourself strolling into La Rotonde back in the day, a freshly published copy of Hemingway's "A Moveable Feast" in your pocket. You'd probably see Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir hunched over their notebooks at one table while Pablo Picasso, still flush from the success of his latest Cubist masterpiece, regales a rapt audience nearby. The air would be thick with cigarette smoke and big ideas. Writers, artists, and deep-thinkers weren't just killing time here; they were making history, laying the groundwork for existentialism and surrealism between sips of absinthe and bites of croque-monsieur.

Step Through the Time Machine

Walking into La Rotonde today feels like shaking hands with ghosts of icons past. The place has aged gracefully, wearing its red and gold color palette like a badge of honor. Peer into its worn mirrors, and you might glimpse Man Ray setting up his camera for an impromptu photoshoot. The space is drenched in the smell of strong coffee, a scent only second to the pungent aroma of stories untold and ideas yet to be conceived.

Get Lost in the Authentic Paris

There's a tendency to romanticize the past, to wax poetic about the "good old days" of café society, especially in a rapidly changing city like Paris. But what if I told you the spark's not lost, it's just waiting for a new generation to strike the match? While it's no secret that Montparnasse isn't the bohemian haven it once was—replaced in many ways by up-and-coming neighborhoods like Belleville or the Canal Saint-Martin—there's something eternal about La Rotonde. Here, the rebellious spirit of Parisian intellectual life hasn't gone extinct; it's merely dormant, sipping a double espresso, plotting its next move.

Planning Your Visit

Location: 105 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris, France

Website: http://larotonde-montparnasse.fr

Contact: +33 1 43 26 48 26

Nearest Metro Station: Vavin or Notre-Dame-des-Champs

Note: The historic charm of Café de la Rotonde makes it a quintessential spot for those looking to delve into the intellectual ambiance of Paris. With its doors open from early morning till late night, it's a welcoming venue for both contemplative mornings and lively evenings in the heart of Montparnasse.

HIDDEN GEMS
Nostalgic Nook: A Journey Through Illustrations at Librairie Galerie Louis Rozen

Librairie Galerie Louis Rozen, tucked away in the heart of Paris, is more than just a bookstore—it's a realm where the past and present entwine through the pages of carefully curated books and art. This quaint bookshop, enveloped in the nostalgic allure of illustrations and graphic art, offers a voyage through time and creativity, from the age of vintage children's books to contemporary design concepts.

A Whimsical Wonderland

The ambiance at Librairie Galerie Louis Rozen is akin to a 'Cabinet of Curiosities,' a term the owners use to describe their little universe. It's a place where every shelf and corner holds a story, a memory, or a piece of art waiting to be discovered. With a focus on illustration as the central theme, the gallery extends its arms into a myriad of genres, including art books, photography, architecture, design, and advertising. The experience is about meandering through the vast array of memories that the books and art pieces evoke, letting your eyes wander from one subject to another, from one era to another, until a particular piece captures your heart.

Not Just a Bookstore

Librairie Galerie Louis Rozen transcends the traditional notion of a bookstore. It's a place where the love for old books meets the appreciation for graphic arts, creating a haven for those with a penchant for a visual and textual narrative. Whether it's the psychedelic posters from bygone eras, underground comics, mid-century advertising annuals, beat novels, or charming children's books, there's a piece of history and artistry awaiting every visitor.

Planning Your Visit

Location: 3 Rue de l'Odéon, 75006 Paris, France

Website: https://www.librairiegalerielouisrozen.com/

Contact: +33 1 43 29 49 68

Nearest Metro Station: Odéon

Note: Prepare to dedicate time when you visit, as exploring books and art pieces is akin to a treasure hunt. The array of books surrounded by original documents like posters, photographs, and other objects is bound to make your visit memorable.

ART & LITERATURE
Paris Through the Lens: A Timeless Muse

Iconic Snapshots

Historically, Paris has been the playground for many revered photographers. The likes of Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Doisneau, and Brassai have immortalized the city's quintessential moments in their iconic shots. From Cartier-Bresson’s decisive moments to Doisneau’s playful captures of everyday life, each photographer found a unique narrative in the streets of Paris.

The Changing Hues of Paris

The city's varying atmospheres have been a rich source of inspiration. The soft morning light illuminating the Seine, the vibrant bustle of midday markets, the serene glow of street lamps on cobblestone streets at dusk - each hue of Paris has been a subject of admiration and capture.

Modern-day Inspirations

In the digital age, Paris continues to be a favorite subject for photographers worldwide. The advent of platforms like Instagram has brought forth a new generation of photographers who share their love for Paris with the world, one frame at a time. The city's classic charm juxtaposed with modern-day life provides endless material for creative expression.

Parisian Photography Spots

For budding photographers or enthusiasts, the city offers a plethora of spots to capture. Some notable places include the iconic Montmartre steps, the banks of the Seine, and the myriad charming cafes that line the city streets. Each corner of Paris holds the potential for a captivating photograph.

Photography Exhibitions and Galleries

Paris is home to several galleries and exhibitions dedicated to photography. Venues like the Maison Européenne de la Photographie or the Jeu de Paume, one of my favorites, offer a deep dive into the photographic art form, showcasing works spanning decades and styles.

Your Photographic Journey

We encourage our readers to explore Paris through their lenses, uniquely capturing its essence. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or enjoy taking snaps on your phone, Paris offers a picturesque canvas awaiting your capture.

Exploring Paris through the lens is not just about capturing beautiful images; it's about seeing the city from a new perspective, noticing the details often overlooked, and immortalizing the fleeting moments that embody the Parisian spirit.

A PEEK INTO HISTORY
The Legacy of the Exposition Universelle

A World on Display

The Exposition Universelle, a world fair held in Paris at various times during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, showcased the pinnacle of human achievement, innovation, and cultural exchange. With each exposition, the City of Light welcomed the world and became a colossal stage where nations proudly exhibited their advancements and shared their cultures.

Monumental Debuts

These expositions witnessed the debut of iconic structures and inventions. Perhaps the most monumental is the unveiling of the Eiffel Tower in 1889, which instantly became a symbol of Paris itself. Other remarkable introductions included the Statue of Liberty's arm and torch in 1876 and the first talking films showcased by Thomas Edison in 1900.

Architectural Marvels

The architecture of the Exposition Universelle was a spectacle in its own right. Temporary palaces and pavilions were constructed, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and innovative engineering feats. Some structures, like the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, built for the 1900 exposition, remain Parisian landmarks, continuing to house art and cultural events.

Cultural Exchanges

The expositions were a melting pot of cultures, introducing Parisians and international visitors to a wealth of global traditions, art, and cuisine. They played a crucial role in fostering cross-cultural exchanges and broadening horizons, leaving a lasting legacy of cosmopolitanism that still resonates in Paris' diverse cultural scene.

Technological Innovations

Each exposition unveiled the latest technological marvels to an astonished public, reflecting the era's spirit of innovation. From advancements in transportation to the newest industrial machines, these expositions were a glimpse into the future, many of which paved the way for modern conveniences we take for granted today.

Lasting Impressions

The Exposition Universelle left an indelible mark on Paris, contributing to its global stature as a hub of culture and innovation. The remnants of these expositions, whether in the form of iconic landmarks or the spirit of international camaraderie, continue to echo through the boulevards and gardens of Paris, narrating tales of a bygone era filled with wonder and aspiration.

Planning Your Visit

To trace the legacy of the Exposition Universelle, one can visit the iconic Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais, and the Petit Palais, each telling a chapter of Paris' glorious exposition history.

Location: Various locations around Paris, including Champ de Mars, Grand Palais, and Petit Palais

Nearest Metro Stations: Ecole Militaire (for Eiffel Tower), Champs-Élysées - Clemenceau (for Grand Palais and Petit Palais)

Note: While exploring, take a moment to imagine the grandeur and excitement that once filled these sites during the expositions and the sense of wonder it instilled in the hearts of the beholders.

PARISIAN MUSINGS
The Unsung Heroes of Paris

As I wander through the picturesque lanes of Paris, I often find myself marveling at the euphonious rhythm that keeps this city alive and thriving with a charm that's nothing short of magical. It's like a well-composed orchestra playing a melody that resonates through the historic buildings, along the Seine, and in the heart of every Parisian. But who are the conductors ensuring every note plays out just right? They're the unsung heroes—those whose diligent endeavors keep the city functioning so impeccably. Paris works; it just works, and the credit goes to these everyday heroes who blend into the city's backdrop yet are indispensable. While innumerable individuals are contributing to the essential fabric of this city, here, we shed light on a few whose roles may often go unnoticed yet are pivotal in making Paris the enchanting city we all love.

The Artisans of Daily Delight: Among the early risers are the artisans whose crafts have become synonymous with the Parisian lifestyle. The boulangerie and pâtisserie owners, with their assortment of freshly baked bread and pastries, lay the foundation for the city’s day. Their craft, handed down through generations, is a testament to tradition and the simple joys of life.

Guardians of Cleanliness: Equally vital yet less celebrated are the street cleaners, whose labor commences before dawn. Armed with brooms and an unyielding dedication, they ensure the streets are ready to welcome the footsteps of both the locals and the myriad of visitors. Their commitment is a silent yet essential contribution to the city's enchantment.

The Sentries of Safety: Paris’s serenity is also safeguarded by the vigilant presence of its security personnel. Their watchful eyes provide a sense of safety, allowing the city to retain its peaceful demeanor amidst the bustling activity.

The Quiet Caretakers: Let’s not forget the quiet caretakers who tend to the city’s green spaces, ensuring they remain a haven for relaxation and respite. Their meticulous care allows the gardens to bloom, providing a touch of nature amid the urban landscape.

The Symphony of Everyday: These individuals, often behind the scenes, form a harmonious symphony that plays daily, ensuring Paris remains the charming, welcoming, and functioning city we all adore. As we stroll through the clean streets, enjoy a fresh croissant, or relax in a well-tended garden, it’s a gentle reminder of the many hands that contribute to the magic of Paris.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
“Un Automne a Paris” by Louane

As the leaves turn golden and the crisp autumn air sweeps through the city, there's no better soundtrack to Paris in fall than Louane's tender melody, "Un Automne À Paris." The gentle and reflective song carries the essence of the season within its notes, echoing Paris's serene and contemplative ambiance as it transitions into autumn. Accompanying the beautiful melody is a music video adorned with delightful visuals of our beloved city, capturing Paris's quaint charm and romantic allure. Louane's enchanting voice, paired with the scenic beauty of Paris in the video, makes "Un Automne À Paris" a perfect ode to this enchanting season in the City of Light.