OUR WEEK IN PARIS

Busy Week and a Glowing Pont Neuf Moment

It’s been a hectic week of apartment hunting and starting to pack for our upcoming move. While the chaos of moving has taken over, I’m sharing a photo I made a few weeks ago of the Pont Neuf glowing at night. It’s a little reminder of why we love this city, even when life gets busy!

LINKING YOU TO PARIS

➡️ Paris' Notre Dame Cathedral rises from the ashes with grand reopening five years on from fire: From ABC News - Five years after people wept as they watched a huge fire tear through Paris' iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, destroying the vaulted wooden ceiling and spire, the storied medieval landmark will reopen its doors once again in a weekend of celebration and ceremony.

➡️ 10 Top Paris Attractions: From Forbes - Whether you visit Paris for the winter holiday markets or the summer pop-up beaches, here are the must-see spots, shops and sips in the City of Light.

➡️ The 23 best places for solo travelers around the world: From Lonely Planet - Whether you're embarking on an epic cross-country tour or taking an impulsive city break, some places are better for solo travelers than others. Certain destinations are suited for solitude, while in others travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people. Whatever you’re looking for, a dream trip awaits if you're ready to go alone. 

VISITING PARIS

Running Through Paris and Its Iconic Routes to Explore the City

While I’m more of a cyclist than a runner, I’ve often thought about how running offers a similar way to connect with the city—intimately, at your own pace, and with the freedom to uncover its hidden corners. For those who prefer running shoes to bike pedals, Paris offers some of the most scenic and inspiring routes imaginable.

The Seine Riverbanks

Running along the Seine is like stepping into a postcard. The path winds past iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Early mornings are especially magical, with the city bathed in soft light and the river reflecting the awakening skyline.

Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes

For those seeking a break from the urban buzz, these expansive parks on the city’s edges provide a serene escape. Bois de Boulogne’s shaded trails and tranquil lakes are perfect for a peaceful run, while Bois de Vincennes offers a mix of open spaces and wooded paths, ideal for longer distances.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

This hilly park in the 19th arrondissement is a favorite among runners looking for a challenge. With its winding paths, dramatic cliffs, and a picturesque suspension bridge, every step feels like an adventure. Don’t miss the panoramic view of the city from the Temple de la Sibylle—it’s worth the climb.

Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe

For a run that combines fitness with grandeur, start at Place de la Concorde and head up the Champs-Élysées. The wide avenue, lined with trees and luxury boutiques, leads to the iconic Arc de Triomphe—a rewarding finish to a classic Parisian route.

Whether you’re running or biking, there’s a unique joy in exploring Paris under your own power. It’s a chance to see the city from a new perspective, to feel its rhythm, and to discover its beauty in the quiet moments between destinations. So, lace up your running shoes (or hop on a bike) and let Paris reveal itself to you, one step—or pedal—at a time.

A PEEK INTO HISTORY

The Rebirth of Notre Dame de Paris

This week, the world watched as Notre-Dame de Paris reopened its doors, marking a triumphant moment in the cathedral’s storied history. Inspired by this monumental event, we’re taking a closer look at the journey of this iconic landmark—from its medieval beginnings to its recent restoration.

A Medieval Masterpiece

Construction of Notre Dame began in 1163, under the reign of King Louis VII, and lasted nearly two centuries. As one of the first Gothic cathedrals, it introduced architectural innovations like flying buttresses, and stunning stained-glass rose windows. It stood as a symbol of Paris’s spiritual and cultural identity for centuries, witnessing coronations, revolutions, and countless historical events.

Victor Hugo’s Crusade

By the 19th century, Notre Dame had fallen into disrepair, its grandeur overshadowed by neglect. It was Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, that reignited public interest in the cathedral. The book’s vivid descriptions of the building’s beauty and decay spurred a restoration campaign led by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, which returned Notre Dame to its former glory.

The 2019 Fire

Tragedy struck on April 15, 2019, when a devastating fire engulfed the cathedral, destroying its spire and much of its roof. The world mourned as flames consumed this beloved symbol of Paris. Yet, amidst the devastation, a global outpouring of support emerged, with donations and pledges ensuring that Notre Dame would rise again.

A New Chapter

After years of meticulous restoration, Notre Dame reopened this week, its beauty and resilience shining brighter than ever. The reopening ceremony was a moment of celebration, honoring the tireless efforts of architects, artisans, and craftspeople who worked to restore the cathedral to its former glory while preserving its historical integrity.

The restoration process was not just about rebuilding what was lost but also about ensuring that Notre Dame could endure for generations to come. Advanced techniques and materials were used to strengthen the structure, making it more resilient to future challenges. While the aim was to remain faithful to the original design, the restoration also incorporated modern innovations to enhance safety and sustainability.

The reopening marks a new chapter for Notre Dame, not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural and historical landmark. Visitors can once again marvel at its soaring arches, intricate sculptures, and breathtaking stained-glass windows, which have been carefully cleaned and restored to their original brilliance. The iconic spire, which was lost in the fire, has been reconstructed with painstaking attention to detail, reclaiming its place in the Parisian skyline.

If you’re planning a visit to Paris, don’t miss the chance to experience the newly restored Notre Dame de Paris. Tickets are now available, offering access to this architectural masterpiece and a chance to witness its remarkable rebirth firsthand.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Vianney - “Hallelujah” in French

This week, we’re featuring a breathtaking performance by the beloved French singer-songwriter, Vianney. Known for his heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice, Vianney has captivated audiences across France and beyond. In this moving rendition of "Hallelujah," sung in French, he brings a fresh and emotional depth to the iconic song.

The performance took place during the grand reopening ceremony of Notre-Dame de Paris, a historic moment for the city and the world. After years of restoration following the devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral has once again opened its doors, symbolizing resilience and hope. Vianney’s performance was a highlight of the event, honoring the spirit of this cherished Parisian landmark.