It’s December and I am in the United States wrapping up work, packing my home and trying to get some details situated for a year abroad. It’s hectic and then of course, it’s the holidays! It’s hard for me to imagine January in Paris and the year ahead. I know it will be wonderful, but I am in the classic frame of mind of feeling buried with “stuff”.
To brighten my spirits, I have been thinking of little explorations and adventures I want to take on in my first 90 days. Some of these are personal challenges and others are things I have meant to do when in Paris, but they have escaped me. Here is what I am looking forward to in the short term:
- The holiday displays at Galeries Lafayette (worth the crowds)
- Finding Shakespeare & Co. bookstore
- Mint tea at la Grande Mosquée de Paris*
- A walk to the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Trump once a week
- Eating roasted chestnuts from the street vendors
- A tour with Corey Frye of A French Frye in Paris
- The Louvre (I am going to make it my second home in Paris)
- Coffee at IBRIK Paris
- The hunt to meet some of my favorite Paris podcasters and writers/bloggers
I am sure there are more activities I should jot down. Send me your excursions ideas to divert me from the chaos of setting up life in a new city. What would you do if you had some time in Paris? Let me know!
Musèe du Louvre
*I will follow up with a post on la Mosquée de Paris. I am intrigued by the Turkish baths, but I may need to work up my courage to take part in la Hammam (a public spa, steam, exfoliation and massage experience). It could be a nice treat in the cold of winter or it could be one of those scary naked dreams that play out over and over again. More to come.
Bon Voyage!! Gretchen safe travels; explore the City of Lights and take in each moment…🍾💝🌲❤️🐾
Thank you,Penny! I will! XOXO.
Enjoy your adventure on the CITY OF LIGHTS
If you haven’t been to The Pompidou and like modern and contemporary art, it’s a must. I waited 28 year to go…didn’t have time in 1989 on my first visit, always disappointed that I didn’t see the inside, and finally got there this summer. And…go for the spa!!! I did something similar in Budapest and it was like nothing else!! Bon Voyage!!
Julie! You and I are two of a kind. I love the Pompidou! It was the first museum I visited in Paris. I love the outside as much as the inside. Thank you for your comments. I need to get some courage for the spa – I really want to do it, but I think I will start with mint tea…
Eat at a Michelin 3-Star restaurant! Any will do 😉
I can’t wait to hear about your adventures, Gretchen! If you think you’ll spend a good chunk of time visiting the Louvre, check out their Membership options. There is an office where you can apply for a membership card. I think it’s 80 Euros or something like that price. Pays for itself after about 5 visits…
Yes, you are reading my mind!! I am going to do a membership. Any other museums you would recommend? Also, I am thinking of joining the American Library in Paris. Unfortunately, it’s not a “free” library, but it is a spot where I can check out books in English. I am so appreciative of all your suggestions, Shannon. It’s making my transition much easier! Thank you.
Join the Impressionist Museum. Check out the tourist sights also government buildings. My favorite hotels the Ritz and George Cinc. Cruise the Seine!!
Thanks Penny! These are great suggestions!
Years ago a Parisian recommended the Flea Market in Paris with its peasant food, vendors and shows. It was wonderful and Zi loved every minute of it including the best cassoulet I have ever had served with the best baguette 🥖
Rosalie, I need to find this flea market! That is right up my alley. I do love the antique markets here…I am looking forward to doing a post on them soon. Thanks for your feedback and suggestions.