🇫🇷 💌 The Paris Love Letter

FOUND IN PARIS
Fun & Useful Links

➡️ Cartorum: A Website Dedicated to Old French Postcards - As a lover of old photographs, I often find myself captivated by this site's extensive collection. The site's unique feature is its precise localization of these postcards, making it possible to view the exact locations where the images were captured. For those specifically interested in Paris, use the 'Departments' tab and select 'Paris' to dive into the city's visual history. It's a fascinating and enjoyable way to get lost in the past.

➡️ Discover Paris on a Virtual Visit - "Discover Paris on a virtual visit" is an article on the Paris je t'aime website offering an immersive experience of Paris's attractions from the comfort of your home. It features virtual guided tours of iconic sites like the Louvre, Sacré-Cœur, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Grand Palais. The article invites readers to explore these historical and cultural landmarks digitally, including lesser-known gems and panoramic views, providing a unique way to experience the city's beauty and heritage virtually.

➡️ L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream - My favorite “stocking stuffer” gift for family and friends from the esteemed French brand, L'Occitane: Renowned for its nourishing and moisturizing properties, this hand cream is a must-have, especially in the colder months. L'Occitane also offers this cream in conveniently small tubes. These miniatures are perfect for stocking stuffers or thoughtful gifts for coworkers, blending practicality with the indulgence of French skincare.

MYSTERY PARISIAN
Welcome to "Mystery Parisian" – Your Secret Guide to Paris.

Bonjour!

We've got something special for you - a new section called "Mystery Parisian." It's curated by a friend who first showed me the Paris you won't find in guidebooks. This guy knows every nook and cranny in this city that's worth knowing. He's the master of unearthing those hidden gems that only a true local could find.

He's agreed to share his unique secrets with us – under one condition: he remains anonymous. So, we're keeping it intriguing with our Mystery Parisian’s guide to the city's lesser-known treasures.

Think of him as that well-connected, savvy friend who always knows where to find the best bistros, the most unique bars, and the most unexpected but fascinating spots around Paris. His recommendations have never been about the glitz but about authenticity and charm.

For now, everyone gets a taste of his insights, but this is just the beginning. As we evolve, "Mystery Parisian" will become a cornerstone of our premium newsletter, offering exclusive tips that go beyond the usual tourist trails.

To kick off this section, I asked him to recommend one of his favorite classically French restaurants in Paris:

Le Villaret - 13 Rue Ternaux, 75011 Paris, France (11th Arrondisomont)

Our Mystery Parisian says: This is my favorite, traditional, provincial fine bistro with a spectacular wine list.

CAFÉ CULTURE
Dar Mima: A Touch of Moroccan Elegance in the Parisian Skyline

Perched atop the Institut du Monde Arabe, Dar Mima emerges as a celestial fusion of Moroccan tradition and Parisian flair. This rooftop café, a heartfelt tribute by Jamel Debbouze to his mother, Fatima, offers more than just a meal; it’s a journey into a world where cultural lines blend beautifully.

The Interiors, a masterpiece by Laura Gonzalez, narrates a story of Moroccan royalty with wood marquetry, zelliges, and gold leaf frescoes. The terrace, akin to a Mediterranean garden, offers a stunning panorama of Paris, making it an oasis in the urban expanse.

In this enchanting setup, Dar Mima presents a culinary experience that honors the rich flavors of Moroccan and North African cuisine. Inspired by Fatima’s secret recipes, the menu ranges from the zestful man’ouché and fattouche to the sumptuous pastilla and tajine. Each dish is a reminder of the warmth and hospitality intrinsic to Moroccan culture.

As evening descends, Dar Mima transforms. The rhythm of live music fills the air, mingling with the clinks of traditional mint tea being poured. The vibe is electric yet comforting, as if the night itself embraces the Moroccan zest for life.

Dar Mima is not just a restaurant but a narrative of love, respect, and cultural synthesis. It’s a seamless blend of Parisian elegance with the vibrant spirit of Morocco, offering a unique escape into a world where every sip and bite tells a story. It invites you to bask in the glow of the Paris skyline while experiencing the soulful essence of Moroccan hospitality.

HIDDEN GEMS
Montmartre's Melodic Corner: Discovering Place Dalida's Enchanting Tribute

In the heart of Montmartre, a neighborhood often pulsing with the footsteps of tourists, there's a spot that hums a quieter tune—Place Dalida. This quaint square is a dedication to the Egyptian-born singer Dalida, a figure who, with her soulful melodies and storied life, wove herself deeply into the fabric of French music.

Dalida's choice of Montmartre as her home in 1962 further colored the area’s artistic heritage. Her presence lingers in the square, marked by a life-sized bronze bust. The statue, nestled in this serene corner of Paris, invites passersby to pause, perhaps to reminisce or even to seek a bit of good fortune, as touching the statue is said to bring luck - Notice which part(s) of the statue is most worn from touch.

Place Dalida, though a tribute to this musical icon, embodies more than a mere commemoration. It's a slice of Parisian charm, a small oasis where the city's grand narratives give way to more intimate stories. The square offers a view of the Sacré-Cœur, a backdrop that adds a layer of tranquility to this already peaceful enclave.

The allure of Place Dalida extends to its surroundings, with streets like Rue de l’Abreuvoir enhancing its charm. These paths, less traveled by the tourist throngs, offer a more authentic taste of Montmartre's bohemian spirit.

Place Dalida stands out in Paris, a city where grandiosity often overshadows the quaint. It's a reminder that the city's heart beats not just in its monumental landmarks but also in these small, tucked-away corners that hold stories of individuals who shaped Parisian culture.

ART & LITERATURE
Binding Paris: A Journey Through Artisanal Bookbinding Workshops

Paris, a city celebrated for its literary prowess and artistic flair, offers a unique exploration into the world of artisanal bookbinding. This craft, intertwining paper, thread, and creativity, holds a special place in the city's heart. The following workshops invite enthusiasts to delve into the intricate world of bookbinding, each offering a distinct Parisian experience.

Atelier Houdart’s Bookbinding and Gilding Workshop: Nestled in Paris, Atelier Houdart is renowned for its mastery of traditional bookbinding and gilding. Participants can immerse themselves in the historical art, learning techniques passed down through generations. The workshop's participation in events like Heritage Days provides an in-depth look into this craft, blending history with hands-on learning.

The Travelling Bookbinder - Love Letters Workshop: Led by Rachel Hazell, this workshop offers a blend of Parisian romance and book craft. Set in the backdrop of Paris, participants create hand-bound books of letters, gathering materials from local flea markets and artisan shops. This workshop not only teaches bookbinding techniques but also encourages exploring Paris through a creative lens.

Listel Or Bookbinding Workshop: Located in Paris 18, the Listel Or Atelier offers bookbinding classes that are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 18:00 to 20:00. With a maximum class size of three, participants can expect a personalized and intimate learning experience. The workshop focuses on traditional bookbinding techniques, and the cost for the courses is 180 € per month, with supplies included except for marbled skins and papers. It's an excellent opportunity for those who wish to delve deep into the historic craft of bookbinding in a quaint Parisian setting.

For those enchanted by the allure of books and the magic of crafting them, these workshops are gateways to honing a skill and experiencing Paris in a novel and deeply personal way. They remind us that the beauty of Paris lies not only in its grand museums and famous boulevards but also in the quiet corners where art and craftsmanship thrive.

A PEEK INTO HISTORY
Vanished Vistas: Tracing the Lost Streets and Neighborhoods of Paris

Paris has seen many of its streets and neighborhoods change, disappear, or transform over the centuries. Let’s take a historical journey through the lost and altered corners of the city, discovering the remnants of these bygone eras still visible today.

The Ghost of Rue des Immeubles-Industriels: This street, now vanished, was an innovative industrial and residential complex built in the 19th century. Located near Place de la Bastille, only its entrance survives, incorporated into a modern building on Rue de Lyon. It’s a testament to Paris's industrial past amid its residential evolution.

The Medieval Labyrinth of Les Halles: Once the bustling heart of medieval Paris, the Les Halles market district underwent significant transformation. The labyrinthine streets, packed with vendors, were demolished in the 1970s to make way for the modern shopping center. Visitors can still get a sense of the old market's atmosphere in the surrounding streets, like Rue Montorgueil, where traditional Parisian commerce continues to thrive.

Bièvre River – Paris’s Lost River: The Bièvre River, once flowing openly through the city, is now entirely covered. Historically significant for tanneries and dyeworks along its banks, the river's trace can be followed in the 5th and 13th arrondissements, with markers and information panels recounting its story.

Passage du Pont-aux-Biches: This almost forgotten passageway in the 3rd arrondissement was part of a network of covered arcades that were a hallmark of 19th-century Paris. Although the passage no longer exists, exploring the nearby Passages Couverts offers a glimpse into that period's architectural style and ambiance.

The Transformation of Marais: The Marais district, known for its historic Jewish community and aristocratic buildings, has seen significant changes. From a marshland to a noble quarter and then a working-class area, it has now transformed into a hub of fashion and culture. Place des Vosges, with its well-preserved architecture, echoes the grandeur of the old Marais.

Temple Quarter – Echoes of the Knights Templar: The Temple area, once a fortified monastery of the Knights Templar, was later converted into a prison during the Revolution. Though the Templar structures were mostly demolished, the nearby Carreau du Temple and the Square du Temple garden offer a sense of the area's historical significance.

The Hills of Belleville and Ménilmontant: These neighborhoods, once independent villages outside Paris, were known for their vineyards and windmills. While much of their rustic charm has been lost to urban development, visiting Parc de Belleville provides panoramic views of the city and a taste of its village past.

Cité des Fleurs: A hidden gem in the 17th arrondissement, the Cité des Fleurs is a preserved example of a 19th-century residential lane. This private street, with its charming houses and gardens, offers a peaceful glimpse into a different era of Parisian urban planning.

Each of these places presents an opportunity to explore Paris's layered history, revealing how the city has evolved over time. These remnants of the past, whether in the form of a street, a building, or a neighborhood, tell the story of a Paris that once was, adding depth and intrigue to the city's already rich tapestry.

PARISIAN MUSINGS
Embracing the Rain: The Introspective Beauty of a Wet Paris

Rain in Paris, often seen as a backdrop for melancholy, has a unique way of transforming the city into a canvas of introspective beauty. Whenever I watch the raindrops dance on the cobblestone streets from my window, Paris seems to slow down, inviting a moment of calm introspection amidst the usual bustle.

There's a certain romance in the way the city's lights reflect in the puddles, creating a shimmering mirror to the world above. The streets, bathed in a soft, diffused light, take on a dreamlike quality. The sound of rain gently tapping against the café windows creates a soothing rhythm, complementing the quiet hum of conversations.

Strolling through the rain-soaked streets, one can't help but feel a part of something timeless. The rain seems to wash away the superficial, leaving behind a Paris that's raw and real. It's a reminder of the city's enduring charm, resilient through centuries of change.

The rain also brings a sense of tranquility to the bustling city. The usually crowded tourist spots become serene, allowing for a more personal experience with the city's landmarks. It's during these rainy walks that I find Paris most beautiful, a city not rushed but savored – from the historic architecture to the gardens – standing out more vividly.

In these quiet, rain-filled moments, I find myself reflecting on the essence of Paris – a city that's as much about its atmospheric lanes and hidden alleys as it is about its grand boulevards and monuments. The rain, with its calming presence, invites us to look closer, to delve deeper, and to appreciate the beauty in the everyday.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
"Vive le vent (Jingle Bells)" by Dalida

As we approach the festive season and in keeping with our feature on Place Dalida, it's only fitting that we spotlight a song by the iconic Dalida herself. This week, we present the charming and festive world of "Vive le vent (Jingle Bells)," a French adaptation of the classic Christmas carol "Jingle Bells," performed by Dalida.