In This Issue of The Paris Love Letter

• Café Culture: Café de la Paix

• Hidden Gems: Canal Saint-Martin

• Travel Tips: Making the Most of Paris Museums

• Inspiring Stories: The Birth and Growth of La Cinémathèque Française

• Art & Literature: Victor Hugo – Beyond Les Misérables

• A Peek into History: The Unique Story of Pont Neuf

• Fun and Unusual Stuff: Curious Shops in Paris

• Your Questions Answered: Paris Through The Seasons

• Featured French Song: Stacey Kent - Les amours perdues

Found in Paris - Fun & Useful Stuff From The Web

➡️ Virtual Tours of the Louvre - Visit the museum rooms and galleries, admire the palace architecture, and enjoy the views!

➡️ La Cuisine Paris - La Cuisine Paris is a French cooking school in Paris offering a variety of cooking classes in English. They offer numerous French cuisine classes, including Croissant Classes, Macaron Classes, Traditional French Pastry Classes, Technical Skills Classes, and a French Cheese Workshop

➡️ The Leaf Project - The LEAF Project provides free Creative Commons licensed language learning materials online! This is a great resource that I'm using to learn French... Albeit slowly. 🤣

Café Culture: Café de la Paix

Café de la Paix Website

Parisian café culture is an iconic symbol of French sociability that combines culinary tradition with a passion for conversation, art, and ideas. It's a unique setting where every table is a stage, a podium, a boardroom, or a confessional. And at the heart of this rich tradition sits Café de la Paix, a shining beacon of the quintessential Parisian café.

On the corner of Boulevard des Capucines and Place de l’Opéra, Café de la Paix embodies the very soul of Paris. Its ornate Belle Époque decor is steeped in history, harking back to 1862 when it first opened its doors. Since then, it has been a magnet for the creative and intellectual crowds. The likes of Émile Zola, Guy de Maupassant, and Richard Wagner, among others, have found inspiration within its walls, making it not just a café, but a cultural institution.

Walking into Café de la Paix is like stepping into a time capsule. The vibrancy of its historic terrace invites you to sit down, order a café au lait, and watch the world go by. Its pastries, and legendary hot chocolate are the perfect accompaniments to hours of conversation, contemplation, or people-watching.

But Café de la Paix is more than a place to indulge in culinary delights. It's a place that encapsulates the essence of Parisian café culture, where one can gather to exchange ideas, discuss current events, debate art and literature, or simply appreciate the joy of shared silence. A café, in the true Parisian sense, is a living, breathing space that hosts the ebb and flow of life, and Café de la Paix sits at its heart, ever-resilient, ever-welcoming, and ever-inspiring. If the walls of Café de la Paix could talk, they'd narrate a tale as rich and complex as the history of Paris itself. So, when you're there, take a moment to soak it all in - the culture, the history, and the indefinable charm that makes it a cornerstone of Parisian café culture.

Hidden Gems: Canal Saint-Martin

Paris is full of grand, sweeping sights that take your breath away, but some of its most delightful treasures are nestled quietly in its distinct neighborhoods. One such place is Canal Saint-Martin.

Located in the 10th arrondissement, Canal Saint-Martin is more than just a waterway. It's a vibrant neighborhood teeming with eclectic boutiques, buzzing cafes, and a unique charm that's a world away from the classic Parisian postcard.

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” - Marcel Proust, French novelist.

The canal, with its picturesque iron footbridges and lock gates, offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, to people-watch, or to indulge in a picnic on its banks. Our favorite pastime was walking along the canal, relishing the peaceful atmosphere, and getting lost in the local neighborhood's narrow streets.

The area is also home to a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and street art displays adding a contemporary edge to the district. And when it comes to food and drink, Canal Saint-Martin has it all. From cozy bakeries and coffee shops to trendy wine bars and restaurants, you'll find something that fits your mood and palate.

Though more and more visitors are starting to discover this gem, it still retains its authentic, local feel. So, if you're yearning to experience a different, vibrant side of Paris, away from the typical tourist routes, Canal Saint-Martin is a detour you won't regret.

Travel Tips: Making the Most of Paris Museums

Few cities in the world can match Paris when it comes to the sheer variety and quality of its museums. There's something for every interest, from art to history, fashion to science. But navigating the myriad museums can be overwhelming, so here are a few tips to help you make the most of your museum visits in the City of Lights.

1. Beat the Crowds: Paris' top museums, like the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, can get busy, especially in peak seasons. Aim to visit early in the day or late in the afternoon when they're typically less crowded. And don't forget to utilize online ticketing options - it's a lifesaver for skipping those long ticket lines.

2. Explore Lesser-Known Gems: Venture beyond the famous museums to discover Paris's lesser-known, yet equally fantastic collections. The Musée Marmottan Monet is a treasure trove of Monet's works, while the Musée Rodin offers an intimate look at the life and work of the renowned sculptor, Auguste Rodin.

3. Make Use of the Paris Museum Pass: If you plan on visiting several museums and monuments, consider getting the Paris Museum Pass. It offers unlimited access to over 50 museums and monuments in and around Paris, including the Louvre, the Palace of Versailles, and the Centre Pompidou. It's a cost-effective option, and it also allows you to skip long ticket lines.

Learn more from the Paris Tourist Office HERE.

1. Take Your Time: Don't rush your museum visits. Enjoy the art, read about the pieces you find interesting, and soak in the atmosphere. Remember, the aim is not to see everything but to fully appreciate what you do see.

2. Plan Some Breaks: Museum fatigue is real, so plan some breaks into your schedule. Most museums have cafes or restaurants where you can rest and recharge.

"Travel isn’t about seeing everything; it’s about deeply experiencing what you do see." - James Christopher Knight

Visiting museums in Paris can be a rewarding experience, providing a deeper understanding of the city's rich history, culture, and artistic traditions. So plan wisely, pace yourself, and enjoy the journey of exploration.

Inspiring Stories: The Birth and Growth of La Cinémathèque Française

La Cinémathèque Française Website

Dedicated to the preservation and celebration of cinema, La Cinémathèque Française holds a special place not just in the heart of Paris, but also in the global film community. Its story is one of passion, resilience, and a deep respect for film as a cultural treasure.

Born from the vision of Henri Langlois, Georges Franju, and Jean Mitry, La Cinémathèque Française started in 1936 as a small club for cinephiles. Initially, Langlois stored films in his bathtub, risking imprisonment as, at that time, private film collections were illegal in France!

The Cinémathèque's journey from humble beginnings to a world-renowned film institution was not always smooth. A controversial dismissal of Langlois in 1968 led to significant protests from leading filmmakers, including François Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard. Such was the respect and influence Langlois commanded in the film industry that the outcry led to his reinstatement.

Today, La Cinémathèque Française is housed in a striking building designed by Frank Gehry in the 12th arrondissement. It holds one of the most extensive film archives in the world, with over 40,000 films from all eras and countries. But it's more than just a vault. It’s a living, breathing space dedicated to the love of cinema, hosting regular screenings, retrospectives, and exhibitions. It also includes the Musée du Cinéma, showcasing a fascinating collection of pre-cinematographic optical devices, historical film equipment, costumes, and props.

La Cinémathèque Française's story reflects France's longstanding commitment to preserving and promoting film as an essential part of cultural heritage. In an age of digital streaming and fleeting content, the institution serves as a reminder of the beauty, artistry, and significance of cinema in its physical form. And, for us film lovers, it's a testament to the enduring power of the big screen.

Art & Literature: Victor Hugo – Beyond Les Misérables

n one hears the name Victor Hugo, it's almost always followed by the echo of "Les Misérables." And while Les Mis is, without a doubt, a tour de force, Hugo's body of work extends far beyond this monumental epic.

Born in 1802, Victor Hugo was a poet, novelist, and dramatist leading the French Romantic literary movement. Besides Les Misérables, he penned notable works like "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," which helped to revive interest in Gothic architecture, and "Ninety-Three," a novel that delves into the French Revolution's tumultuous times.

"To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark." - Victor Hugo, French poet, novelist, and dramatist.

But Hugo was more than just a scribe. He was an activist who used his pen to fight against social injustice and champion human rights, a trait that adds depth and relevance to his stories. In a time of kings and emperors, Hugo was a voice of the people, which inevitably put him at odds with the powers that be, leading to a period of exile in Guernsey.

Hugo's legacy is kept alive at the Maison de Victor Hugo in Paris's Marais district. This museum, his former home, is where he wrote parts of Les Misérables and is now a homage to his life and work. The rooms are preserved just as they were, offering a glimpse into his world—his writing desk, his family life, and his art, revealing a lesser-known side of Hugo—his talent for drawing.

Exploring Victor Hugo beyond Les Misérables is like unearthing buried treasure. It not only deepens our appreciation of his genius but also offers insight into the man behind the masterpieces—a man who believed in the power of words to change society, a belief that resonates with us even today.

A Peek into History: The Unique Story of Pont Neuf

Poeuf, despite its name meaning "New Bridge," is the oldest standing bridge across the river Seine in Paris. But don't let its age fool you; it's filled with as much character and charm as any modern marvel in the city.

Built by King Henry III in 1578, Pont Neuf was a marvel of its time. Unlike its predecessors, it was the first bridge in Paris not to support houses in addition to a thoroughfare. It was also the first bridge to have pavements, adding a new level of comfort for pedestrians.

The bridge's architecture is unique, featuring 12 arches adorned by 384 'mascarons' or grotesques - ornamental carvings of grotesque faces fashioned in the style of the Renaissance. These caricature-like faces are one of the bridge's most distinctive features, each unique, displaying various emotions and expressions.

A fun of lore about the Pont Neuf involves these mascarons. Among the hundreds of grimacing, grotesque faces, one stands out – the only attractive, smiling face among the lot. The story goes that the sculptor in charge of the mascarons had a beautiful but unfaithful wife. Out of spite, he modeled all the grotesque faces after her many lovers and the single, handsome face after himself!

While the bridge is worth a visit for its historical significance and unique design, it also offers a stunning view of the Île de la Cité, the Louvre, and the charming quays of the Seine.

Wits un architectural style and fascinating stories, Pont Neuf reminds us that there's always something new to discover about 'The City of Lights.'

Fun and Unusual Stuff: Curious Shops in Paris

• Deyr: Parouses a myriad of distinctive shops with peculiarities that mirror the city's charming eccentricity. Take, for instance, the curiosities and rarities you'll find at 'Deyrolle,' the famed taxidermy shop, which is nothing short of a museum. From mounted butterflies to taxidermy lions, you'll feel like you've stepped into a whimsical cabinet of curiosities.

• Tombées du Camion: In the heart of Marais, you'll stumble upon 'Tombées du Camion,' a peculiar store overflowing with tiny trinkets and knick-knacks from the mid-20th century. Here, you can rummage through bins of vintage typewriter keys, plastic dolls, and various other tiny treasures that fell off the proverbial truck.

• Mayette Magie Moderne: Next, let's pull back the magician's curtain at 'Mayette Magie Moderne.' This magic shop, one of the oldest in the world, has been mesmerizing customers since the late 18th century. Perfect for both budding illusionists and seasoned magicians, the shop offers everything from beginner magic sets to professional-grade trick equipment.

• Le Comptoir Général: Lastly, we step into 'Le Comptoir Général,' where Laura and I first had drinks when I visited her in Paris. It's a treasure trove of African and Caribbean culture - a quasi-museum, bar, and restaurant where you can explore various unusual items during the day and enjoy a lively atmosphere with delicious meals and drinks in the evening—a perfect spot to experience Paris beyond its traditional landscape.

As er much more than just items for purchase; they provide a unique peek into the eclectic and artistic spirit that thrives in the heart of Paris. So, next time you find yourself strolling the Parisian streets, don't forget to wander into these peculiar little nooks – who knows what treasures you might find?

Your Questions Answered: Paris Through The Seasons

This week, we've got a great question from a readeanning a Paris vacation. Nancy is curious about the changing seasons in Paris and what each has to offer to visitors.

Nancy, thanks for your question! Here are a few thoughts on Paris through the seasons:

Spring in Paris is like a storybook come to life. It's when the city's numerous parks and gardens truly shine, boasting colorful blooms and vibrant greenery. It's also the season of the Foire du Trône, France's oldest fair. When packing, be prepared for unpredictable weather, from warm, sunny days to chilly, rainy afternoons.

Summer is high tourist season, and for good reason. With long, sunny days, Parisians flock to the city's many outdoor spaces like the Seine riverbanks and numerous open-air cafes. The Fête de la Musique in June brings free music performances throughout the city. Pack light clothing but include a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Autumn in Paris is purgIt's my favorite season in Paris. The city is adorned with hues of gold, red, and brown, making it a perfect time for leisurely strolls along the Seine. Don't miss Nuit Blanche, an all-night arts festival in October. As for clothing, think about layers, and don't forget a good pair of walking shoes.

Winter, while cold, brings its charm. With fewer tourists, the city takes on a more intimate feel. The Christmas markets and festive decorations add a twinkling charm to the cityscape. Warm clothing is a must; be sure to pack a good quality coat, scarves, and gloves.

Regardless of when you t, eachson in Paris brings its unique blend of sights, sounds, and experiences. Remember, no matter the season, the city's timeless allure always shines through.

Featured French Song

Stacey Kent - Les amours perdues