Tag Archives: fleurishing in france

the wall of love

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We need more walls…of love. This one in Paris has become quite well-known since it’s installation in 2000. You’ll find le mur des je t’aime nestled inside the lovely Square Jehan-Rictus garden, adjacent to Place des Abbesses in Montmartre. Artists Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito created the mural using dark blue enamel lava tiles inscribed with “I love you” written 311 times, in 250 languages and dialects. The bits of red throughout represent a broken heart – the heart of humanity. The wall is a symbol of peace, uniting the globe with one simple phrase. Such a meaningful message, always.

 

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Le Mur Des Je T’aime | Square Jehan-Rictus 75018 Paris

the tower and a tease

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I’m back mes amis, coucou! My trip to Paris was such a whirlwind, whew – I’m still catching my breath. It was an exhilarating and exhausting eight days, but worth every second. I missed my family fiercely (it’s the longest I’ve ever been away from them), but returned home refreshed and excited! Soon I’ll be sharing posts about my adventures, my apartment in Montmartre, and more. But for now…I have a very special announcement to share with you! While I can’t reveal it fully just yet, I’ll soon be launching a new venture that has been in the works for some time now (and on my brain for even longer). I’m honored and thrilled to be joined by and collaborating with my incredibly talented friends and fellow Francophiles, Kirsten Alana + Lindsey Tramuta. We cannot wait to share our news with you…stay tuned!!

poilâne

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P stands for…Poilâne! I find myself at this amazing bakery (first opened in 1932) whenever I’m in Paris. They are most famously known for their round, sourdough country bread – miche or pain poilâne, with their signature “p” carved into the top. Their flagship shop (shown here) is in Saint-Germain des Prés, but they also have locations in the 3rd + 15th, as well as in London! Why not visit them all…and be sure to try the Viennese pastries as well. Check out this fascinating video featuring the late Lionel Poilâne himself, as well as this beautiful video detailing their bread-making process.

Poilâne | 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi 75006 Paris

my french playlist

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I can’t believe I’ll be back in France in less than 30 days!! As you can see in this image captured by Ashley Ludaescher last year, I’m pretty happy there (and Paris makes everyone feel sexier). I recently had a Madeleine moment thanks to one of my favorite French songs, and it made me realize how long it’s been since I’ve written a music post. La Noyée, by Yann Tiersen, transports me back to my first trip to France, circa 2001. Amélie had just been released, and being the hopelessly romantic Francophile that I am, the soundtrack was on repeat during my flight. I pressed play as we made our descent into Paris, and…no exaggeration – just as the music rose to it’s beautiful crescendo, we emerged from the clouds, with the Eiffel Tower in view. Seeing it for the first time took my breath away–I’ll never forget that moment. On that note, I thought it might be nice to share a few of my favorite French songs with you – it’s so hard for me to narrow it down…I’ll share more soon. Do you have any French favorites, and/or what songs bring back specific memories for you?

 

françoise hardy // le temps de l’amour

paris combo // aquarium

édith piaf // non, je ne regrette rien

les nubians // demain

serge gainsbourg // bonnie and clyde

amylie // espace

juliette gréco // sous le ciel de paris

mc solaar // le belle et le bad boy

jacques dutronc // et moi et moi et moi

coralie clément  // samba de mon coeur qui bat

my paris apartment

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Deciding to stay in an apartment vs. a hotel was an easy decision for me–I wanted to live like a local. Having learned of Haven in Paris many years ago, I instantly began browsing their rentals after securing my flights. I really wanted a place that was central, had character, and was situated in a residential area. I fell in love with this chic and cozy little apartment in the Marais, beautifully decorated and loaded with amenities. Upon arrival a lovely greeter ran through all the practical points, shared a few local tips, and handed me the keys! That was a true pinch me moment, as I’ve always dreamed of living in Paris. Staying in an apartment is one way to make that dream a reality, even if only for a week!

 

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Having a kitchen (and a stocked one at that) is a major perk of renting, and although I mostly ate out (hello Paris), I made the most of the french press in the mornings, with the bells of the nearby St. Gervais Church bringing me much joy. With so many comforts of home (washer/dryer, laptop, fluffy feather bed), I felt at ease, even on my own. Having never traveled alone internationally before, that feeling was very freeing, and empowering. In the evenings I would catch up with social media, fine tune my plans for the next day, and most importantly…FaceTime with my family. My apartment truly was a haven, and I’m so grateful for the experience. It was unlike any I’ve had before, in the best way!

 

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If you’re the type of traveler who wants to be immersed in the culture, I highly recommend renting. Even if it’s a bit out of your comfort zone, I promise you the experience will enrich your journey. The team of Haven in Paris was so attentive throughout the entire process, from booking to my return home, and the service they provided exceeded my expectations. When we travel internationally as a family, we will definitely be renting (already eyeing all of their family friendly apartments)! Visit the Haven in Paris site to see all of their listings + their blog for great tips inspiration for your travels!

 *this post is sponsored by Haven in Paris…all words and opinions are my own*

*images via Haven in Paris and myself*