In This Issue of The Paris Love Letter

• Paris Classified: Olympic Volleyball Tickets Available

• Hidden Gems: Discover the Charm of Marché d'Aligre in Paris

• Featured French Song: Josephine Baker - Paris, Paris, Paris

PARIS LINKS

➡️ Seine fit for swimming most of past 12 days, Paris says ahead of Olympics - From The Local: For anyone wondering what’s happening with the Seine River water project, check out this article. Many people I speak to express skepticism that the river will be clean enough for swimming by the Olympics.

➡️ Everything to Know About the History-Making Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony - From Time: The Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony is set to be unlike any other—assuming everything goes to plan. For the first time in history, the Summer Games won’t kick off in a stadium but instead on a river.

➡️ The best places to buy croissants in Paris - From CN Traveler: France’s most in-demand viennoiserie and a buttery, flaky emblem of the country – the croissant needs little introduction. Laminated to perfection at numerous top-flight boulangeries and stellar pâtisseries, the crescent-shaped pastry is a shortcut to the Parisian experience. The only issue for croissant-seeking travelers is where to find the best versions.

🚨 Flight Alert: With tourism slightly down in Paris this August, flights are showing prices as much as 30% lower than usual! This is a great chance to snag a dream Parisian Olympic experience.

PARIS CLASSIFIED

Olympic Volleyball Tickets Available

Looking to experience the thrill of the Olympic Games firsthand?

A local Parisian friend is reselling one ticket for each of these events on Saturday, August 10th:

• Women’s Bronze Hardcourt Volleyball: 5 PM

• Men’s Bronze Beach Volleyball (Eiffel Tower): 9 PM

Are you interested? Reply to this email for more details and to inquire about purchasing the tickets. I’ll contact the owner!

HIDDEN GEMS
Discover the Charm of Marché d'Aligre in Paris

Marché d'Aligre offers an authentic glimpse into the city's vibrant market culture. Located in the 12th arrondissement, just east of the Bastille, this market complex is beloved by locals and visitors for its rich array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and antique treasures.

The Experience: A Feast for the Senses

As you meander through the open-air stalls of the Marché d'Aligre, you'll be enveloped by a symphony of sights and sounds. Vendors enthusiastically call out their wares, from fragrant melons and scarlet cherries to earthy chanterelles and artichokes with their pale purple and white stripes. The abundance and variety can be overwhelming, yet wonderfully so, offering a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Sample the fresh fruits and regional specialties available at almost every turn for a true sensory treat.

Exploring the Marché Beauvau: The Covered Market

Adjacent to the outdoor market is the Marché Beauvau, one of Paris's oldest covered markets. Open since 1781, this market has deep historical roots and offers a more sheltered shopping experience. Inside, you'll find high-quality stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, olives, wine, and other gourmet items. This covered space is perfect for a rainy day exploration, allowing you to savor the local flavors without the weather dampening your spirits.

Unearthing Treasures at the Flea Market

For those with a penchant for antiques and unique finds, the flea market section at the back of Place d'Aligre is a must-visit. Here, you can sift through piles of old books, vintage posters, decorative objects, and much more. It's an ideal spot for treasure hunters and those looking to bring home a piece of Parisian history. The thrill of discovering something extraordinary makes this part of the market particularly enchanting.

Making the Most of Your Visit

The Marché d'Aligre is open daily except Mondays. The best time to visit is in the morning when the market is at its liveliest. Weekdays are preferable for a more relaxed experience, as weekends tend to be crowded. After exploring the market, you can enjoy the surrounding cafés and bakeries or take a leisurely stroll along the nearby Promenade Plantée, a scenic elevated park.

Whether you're a food lover, a history enthusiast, or simply in search of a lively and authentic Parisian experience, the Marché d'Aligre offers something for everyone. Its vibrant atmosphere and rich offerings make it a quintessential stop on any visit to Paris.

Snapshots of Paris

Here are a few phone photos from my travels and touring around Paris this week.

1. (top left) Church of Saint-Gervais

2. (top right) Pl. de la Contrescarpe

3. (bottom left) The view from La Promenade Plantée

4. (bottom right) Place des Vosges

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Josephine Baker - Paris, Paris, Paris

This week's "French Song of the Week" spotlights one of my all-time favorite Parisian singers, the legendary Josephine Baker!

Josephine Baker, more than just a singer, was a dancer, activist, and cultural icon who captivated Paris with her talent and charisma. Born in the United States, she rose to stardom in France during the Roaring Twenties, dazzling audiences with her performances and innovative costumes. Beyond the stage, Baker became a tireless advocate for civil rights and equality, a legacy that continues to inspire.

Most recently, in a historic move, Josephine Baker was reburied at the Panthéon in Paris, becoming the first Black woman and sixth woman to be honored in this prestigious mausoleum. Let's celebrate this incredible artist and her enduring legacy with a song that perfectly captures her spirit: "Paris, Paris, Paris."

Join Me for an Unforgettable Paris Tour!

You’re invited to explore the enchanting streets of Paris with me! Whether you're a cycling fan or prefer a leisurely stroll, an adventure awaits you. For an exciting bike tour, head to BikeAboutTours.com (message me if you want me to guide you—we have several guides at BAT). If a private walking tour is more your style, visit ParisLoveAffairTours.com for a personalized experience.