My sojourn in Paris has been so intensely sweet and full of discoveries that as promised, I had to follow up with a part two. Here you’ll get more of my Parisian findings and suggestions on how to take in the city.
Thanks to Snap Traveller I stayed at the luxurious Lyric Hotel, located walking distance from the Opera Garnier. With its contemporary and colourful design, spacious rooms, macaroons & chocolate pop-up boutique, SPA and swimming pool it’s tempting to not leave the hotel at all! My room was regal, with beautiful Ballerina printed curtains, a massive shower and comfy couch. The folks at the Lyric Hotel did everything to spoil me and I would have moved in there, but alas my days were fully scheduled, which meant a lot of shopping, French cuisine and cabaret!
SHOPPING
Thanks to its edgy and eclectic mix, Colette is one of the freshest concept stores in Paris. Everyone from fashionistas to regular tourists stop here to browse the latest trends in fashion, electronics, music, books and beauty products.
Annick Goutal with its boudoir style, frou-frou design, and romantic vibe is “the candy shop” of perfumes. Each scent comes packaged in gilded gazed purses.
Sabbia Rosa is the most famous multi-brand lingerie boutique in Paris. You can find lingerie in silk or lace or likely any fabric you can imagine. The staff is at the top of their game and knowledgeable about all things lingerie. With its decadent décor you will immediately feel like a Hollywood starlet once you enter.
I discovered Fifi Chachnil while I lived in London and it became one of my favorite lingerie brands, particularly when I want to buy something in a cheeky pin-up girly style. The colors, fabrics and the design of the shop are excellent. As a French brand, I knew I had to take in their boutique in Paris.
Ladurée is the heavenly home of macaroons. Created in 1862 it is the premiere Paris bakery and sweet maker. If you love this French sweet delicacy you must experience it in the luxurious tearoom.
ENTERTAINMENT
My entree to French cuisine was dining at Le Chat Bossu and it was an authentic bistro experience that makes you feel like a Parisian. Located near Place de la Bastille it serves fresh, high quality food. My course of “Salmon Tartar with Salad and French Fries” was divine.
Located on les Champs-Élysées, Le Lido opened in 1946 and is one of the oldest cabarets in Paris. I had the pleasure to explore Le Lido closely, I was invited to discover the backstage, interview the talented dancer Zara Deane, and see the show “Le Bonheur”. I took everything in while also enjoying an exquisite dinner. It was a glamorous experience for all of you lovers of sparkles and champagne.
As my time in Paris came to an end I wanted to enjoy the Louvre by night. I stood there in front of the Pyramids absorbing the sights and sounds for some time. I reflected to myself as the night came to a close “these are the moments where you fall deeply in love with Paris”.
