FOUND IN PARIS
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➡️ Hanukkah in Paris: Where to Celebrate - From Paris Discover Guide, we have a great list of all the places to celebrate the Festival of Lights in the City of Light this year.

➡️ Why Paris in Winter Is Always a Good Idea - Travel + Leisure article: From ice skating and Christmas markets to fabulous hotels, there are many reasons to visit Paris in the winter. Here's a guide to the season's best offerings.

➡️ Francophile’s guide to Montmartre - This recent article is from Travel + Leisure: Go beyond Sacré-Cœur with this Francophile’s guide to Montmartre’s seductive hotels, vintage boutiques, Michelin-star restaurants, and more.

➡️ Darphin Ideal Resource Overnight Cream - This French skin cream is a favorite of my cousin, a licensed esthetician. She discovered this gem during her visit to Paris last summer and has been a passionate advocate ever since. Ideal for all skin types and made with skin-friendly ingredients, it's now available on Amazon. We are now using it, too, and are affiliates.

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CAFÉ CULTURE
La Closerie des Lilas: Where Parisian History and Gastronomy Converge

Nestled in the heart of Montparnasse, La Closerie des Lilas isn't just a brasserie; it's a Parisian institution steeped in history and literary lore. Walking into this legendary spot, you're not just stepping into a restaurant; you're stepping into a story, a chapter from the book of Paris itself.

La Closerie des Lilas has been more than a mere backdrop to the city's narrative; it's been a central character. Hemingway wrote here, sipping whiskey and penning lines that would captivate generations. Fitzgerald debated over manuscripts at these tables. And it wasn't just them; a veritable who's who of literary and artistic giants have graced this place – from Picasso to Apollinaire.

But let's not get lost only in its past. Today, La Closerie des Lilas continues to be a haven for those seeking the quintessential Parisian experience. The brasserie's ambiance – with its polished mahogany, soft lighting, and the quiet clinking of glasses – creates an atmosphere that's both intimate and vibrantly alive. It's a place where the spirit of Paris in the '20s subtly melds with the modern city's pulse.

And the food? It's a masterful rendition of French cuisine. You can't go wrong with their classics – the steak tartare is a revelation, and the escargots are as Parisian as it gets. But it's not just about the dishes themselves; it's about the experience of dining in a place where every bite feels like a part of history.

Whether you're nestled in its lush garden terrace or sitting by the bar, a visit to La Closerie des Lilas is more than a meal – it's a journey through the soul of Paris. It's about savoring the flavor of a city that's as timeless as it is ever-changing. This is where the ghosts of literary greats mingle with the din of contemporary life, where every sip and every morsel is infused with the essence of Paris.

SPECIAL FEATURE
Hanukkah in Paris 2023: Illuminating the City of Light

Hanukkah in Paris is a beautiful blend of tradition and city charm, illuminating the historical and cultural tapestry of the French capital. While the roots of Hanukkah trace back to ancient Jerusalem, its celebration in Paris is a testament to the city's rich Jewish heritage and vibrant community life.

In Paris, Hanukkah transforms the City of Light into a mosaic of flickering candles and communal joy. The city's historical association with Jewish culture and arts becomes particularly evident during this festival. Neighborhoods like the Marais, known as the traditional Jewish quarter, come alive with the spirit of the festival. Here, amidst the narrow, cobbled streets and historical buildings, the story of Hanukkah takes on a local hue.

Public menorah lightings are central to the Hanukkah celebrations in Paris, with ceremonies held in various locations across the city. These events are more than just religious rituals; they are gatherings that bring together people from all walks of life, reflecting the inclusive and diverse nature of Paris. The lighting of the menorah at prominent spots such as Place de la République and in front of the iconic Eiffel Tower symbolizes not only the miracle of Hanukkah but also the unity and strength of the Jewish community in Paris.

Beyond the lighting, Hanukkah in Paris is marked by cultural events, music, and, of course, culinary delights. Traditional foods like sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts) and latkes (potato pancakes) can be found in Jewish bakeries and cafes, particularly in the Marais. These delicacies are not just treats; they are fragments of history and culture, served up in the most delicious way.

This celebration in the heart of Paris showcases how the city embraces its multicultural heritage, honoring the past while continuing to forge a present that is inclusive and vibrant. Hanukkah in Paris is more than a festival; it's a reflection of the city's enduring spirit, where history and modernity, tradition and cosmopolitanism, light up together.

HIDDEN GEMS
Parc Monceau: A Picturesque Escape in the Heart of Paris

Google Maps Location of Parc Monceau

In the 8th arrondissement of Paris, there's a haven that seems almost out of place in the city's usual architectural narrative. Parc Monceau is more than a park; it's a picturesque escape, a slice of pastoral heaven amidst the urban landscape of Paris.

As you enter Parc Monceau, the first thing that strikes you is its un-Parisian flair. The park, designed in the English style, is a delightful contrast to the formal French gardens scattered across the city. Its informal layout, curving walkways, and unexpected follies create a sense of whimsy and wonder.

One of the most charming aspects of Parc Monceau is its collection of architectural oddities. From a Roman colonnade to a circular rotunda, to an Egyptian pyramid, it's like walking through a whimsical, open-air museum. Some of these structures were part of the original design by Carmontelle in the late 18th century, intended to amaze and entertain.

But Parc Monceau isn't just about aesthetic pleasure. It's a place where diverse plant life thrives. The park's layout encourages leisurely strolls under the shade of exotic trees and past vibrant flowerbeds, making it a favorite spot for both local joggers and families. The beauty of the park changes with the seasons, from the lush greens of summer to the golden hues of autumn, offering a year-round retreat.

The statues dotted around the park add to its cultural richness. These include figures of famous French artists and writers, reminding visitors of the city's enduring love affair with the arts.

Parc Monceau is more than just green space; it's a testament to the eclectic and sometimes eccentric spirit of Paris. It offers an experience that's both calming and invigorating, a place where the hustle of the city fades into the background, replaced by the gentle rustle of leaves and the quiet contemplation of beauty.

ART & LITERATURE
The Legacy of Parisian Art Deco: An Enduring Elegance

In the heart of Paris, amidst its famed Haussmannian boulevards and Gothic landmarks, lies a less heralded but equally captivating architectural treasure – the Art Deco movement. This style, which emerged in the early 20th century, has left an indelible mark on the city's landscape, embodying a period of modernization and artistic flourishing.

Art Deco in Paris is a tale of elegance, innovation, and a distinct break from the past. It was a response to the Art Nouveau movement, favoring cleaner lines, geometric shapes, and a more streamlined form of elegance. This architectural style wasn't just about aesthetics; it was a reflection of a rapidly changing society, embracing industrial advancements and the modern ethos of the Machine Age.

One of the most iconic examples of Parisian Art Deco is the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées. Completed in 1913, this building is a testament to the movement's pioneering spirit. Its façade, adorned with sculptural reliefs and geometric patterns, and its sleek, minimalist interior marked a radical departure from the ornate styles of the past.

Another quintessential Art Deco structure is the Palais de Tokyo. Built for the 1937 International Exposition, it embodies the grandeur and optimism of the Art Deco era. With its monumental scale, symmetrical design, and the use of luxurious materials, the Palais de Tokyo is a celebration of modernity and elegance.

Not to be overlooked are the numerous residential buildings that sprang up during this period. The 16th arrondissement, in particular, boasts an array of stunning Art Deco apartment buildings. These structures are characterized by their clean lines, curved corners, wrought iron balconies, and elegant lobbies, bringing the Art Deco ethos into the realm of everyday Parisian life.

But the influence of Art Deco extends beyond these grand edifices. It seeped into interior design, furniture, and even the Paris Métro. The famous Art Deco Métro entrances, designed by Hector Guimard, are not just functional transit points; they are works of art, inviting passengers to step into a world of modern elegance.

The legacy of Art Deco in Paris is evidence of the city's enduring relationship with innovation and beauty. It stands as a reminder of a time when Paris looked to the future with optimism and embraced a style that was as much about progress as it was about art.

A PEEK INTO HISTORY
Navigating Paris's Forgotten Waterways: The Tale of Its Canals

Let’s dive into the enchanting yet often overlooked chapter of Paris's history – its canals. These human-made waterways, now shadowed by the city's grand boulevards and iconic landmarks, were once the lifelines of Paris, crucial to its growth and daily life.

The Canal Saint-Martin's Forgotten Legacy - Our journey begins with the Canal Saint-Martin, a picturesque waterway that meanders through the 10th and 11th arrondissements. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 and completed in 1825, it was initially built for transporting goods and supplying water to the city. Today, while its commercial significance has waned, the canal has reinvented itself as a tranquil haven for Parisians and tourists alike. With its charming iron footbridges, lock mechanisms, and tree-lined quays, the Canal Saint-Martin offers a serene escape from the urban hustle and bustle while quietly narrating tales from its industrious past.

Canal de l'Ourcq: From Industrial Artery to Leisure Destination - Further exploring Paris's canal network leads us to the Canal de l'Ourcq. Stretching over a hundred kilometers from the River Ourcq to the heart of Paris, this canal was a vital source of drinking water for the growing city in the early 19th century. It played a key role in supporting the burgeoning population and industries of the city. Now, the Canal de l'Ourcq breathes a different life – its banks transformed into spaces for leisure and relaxation, boasting activities from boat cruises to open-air cinema screenings, all the while preserving its historical essence.

Bassin de la Villette: A Story of Transformation - At the intersection of the Canal Saint-Martin and the Canal de l'Ourcq lies the Bassin de la Villette. Once a bustling hub of trade and industry, it is the largest artificial lake in Paris and an example of the city's ambitious urban planning. The Bassin de la Villette's transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a recreational hotspot mirrors Paris's own evolution. Today, it is a vibrant cultural spot where the past and present coalesce, offering everything from watersports to scenic cafés along its banks.

These canals, with their storied pasts and adaptive present, are not just remnants of history; they are active participants in Paris's ongoing narrative. They remind us that history in Paris is not only found in its palaces and museums but also in its quieter, flowing waters.

PARISIAN MUSINGS
Finding Peace in Paris: My Sanctuary in Jardin du Luxembourg

In the bustling heart of Paris, Jardin du Luxembourg holds a special place for those in search of tranquility. For me, it's in the less crowded pathways of this iconic garden where solitude becomes a cherished companion. Here, often nestled in a quiet corner on one of the iconic green chairs, I find the perfect spot to read, write, contemplate, or simply meditate, enveloped by the soothing whispers of nature.

This peacefulness, a rare treasure in the urban landscape, isn't unique to Jardin du Luxembourg alone. Across Paris, numerous parks offer similar serene escapes. Each has its own character, yet they all share the ability to provide a moment of calm in the lively rhythm of the city. Whether it's through the vibrant floral displays of spring or the golden leaves of autumn, these green spaces are oases of peace - even in the midst of a bustling city, tranquility is never far away.

If you’re visiting Paris and feel overwhelmed with treading for miles over crowded cobbled stones, find yourself a quiet corner in one of Paris’ many parks. Just fifteen minutes of ‘quiet time’ can revitalize you for the rest of the day.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
"Sous le ciel de Paris" by Juliette Gréco

This week, we're featuring the timeless charm of Juliette Gréco's "Sous le ciel de Paris.” Gréco's rendition of this classic captures the quintessential Parisian spirit — a melody that strolls along the Seine in the listener's imagination. Her emotive voice, paired with the evocative lyrics, paints a vivid picture of Paris under its ever-changing sky. This song is not just music; it's a journey through the heart of the City of Light.