I’m casually sat in Costa, favourite leggings on with a baggy white tee, enjoying the best cappuccino in the World…and then it hit me! I haven’t blogged about Paris!
About a weekend or so ago, I went to Paris for the first time Ever! It’s been a long time coming, but I finally did!
For those who haven’t been, it’s so beautiful! I cannot seem to muster up the right words to describe it in a way that would portray it in the manner that it deserves. Forget pictures or what you’ve heard, the view plus the accompanied feeling when you arrive is simply indescribable.
And might I add, there is Nothing sexier than French spoken in France! The language sounded so much more delicious, that’s right I said delicious! 😉
I went by Eurostar, which is about 2 and a half hours. Shortest two hours of my life if you ask me, spent sipping on Sauvignon blanc, feasting on cheese and crackers… maybe a Rhubarb pie too which was topped with a bit of goss.
Upon arriving at Gard du Nord, I got a cab to the Loft where I was staying at avenue des Champs-Élysées. That is right where the Arc de Triomphe is located! Champs-Élysées is known for its theatres, cafés and luxury shops. It is also centrally located to all tourist attractions, making it the perfect location to be situated for those wishing to shop or tour.
The Loft was right on top of what was almost a mini shopping centre, so I was able to feast my eyes just a teeny bit. The balcony view from the apartment was spectacular, nothing beats the view of Champs-Élysées at night and having the Beacon light at the peak of the Eiffel Tower rotate and reflect right before your eyes…super exciting! It felt absolutely romantic. Now I see why some people have chosen this as a proposal spot.
Did I also mention the balcony serves as a fantastic view for the Tour De France? Amazing. Don’t even get me started on the decor…
My first night in Paris was spent at Soixante Dix Neuf (79) club for dancing and drinks. I can’t say it was the best club I’ve ever been to….but hey in Paris everything’s that much better!
The next day started off with a late brunch at L’Atelier Renault, a restaurant overlooking Champs-élysées, which also showcases year round exhibitions for Renault. It was the perfect setting to take in Paris and enjoy a meal. And as a  true Londoner in Paris, I ordered the fish and chips! Ha. If I’m to be completely honest, none of the main courses really appealed to me. The cod was delicious though! Following on from brunch….
I can’t say I toured Paris as well as I’d have liked to, as I didn’t get to see all its iconic attractions. But I ensured the Eiffel Tower was ticked off my list. After all, you haven’t been to Paris if you haven’t seen that!
It looks so much prettier at night, but during the day is just as astonishing. I did not get to climb up it, but I will do. Perhaps on visit 3, visit 2 has to be me covering all attractions. My first visit was more of an impromptu last minute trip that surprised me myself.
I also got a close up of the Arc de Triomphe. It was so close that I could have hardly missed it and missing it would have been ridiculous. While in full tourist mode, I came across this awesome group of people who had cycled all the way from London, they were so energetic and full of life that I had to take a picture of them (funny story, see the vent-like thing they are standing on, well I wish someone would have told me I’d have a ‘Marilyn Monroe’ moment while walking over it so I could have at Least struck a pose!ha).
The architecture in Paris is so picturesque, I need to go on a proper tour to indulge in the history behind every single architectural piece because they truly are sights to behold.
If I had any tips to share for a trip to Paris;
1. Have a minimum of €200 to spend (ideal for a weekend trip).
2. Be sure to roam your phone. Wifi in the hotel alone will just not cut it.
3. A French speaking app or a language guide will be Super handy. Parisians aren’t particularly willing to speak English. Either that or not many of them can.
4. Don’t forget your Passport and European Health card, or some sort of health insurance.
Those are the essentials. Forget clothing and all other things you think you need. Without the above you could be cooking up a disaster. Okay I’m being a tad bit dramatic, but really these should be top of the list.
Quick fun fact to share, on my journey back to Gard du Nord, I went through a street called Boulevard de Clichy. In my mind all I thought was “goodness, why are there so many sex shops”. Literally shop by shop had something sex related. I quickly made a mental note to look into this later on Google. Well, turns out Boulevard de Clichy is a famous street in Paris known for it’s bustling night life, numerous strip bars, cabarets, sex shops and the Museum of Erotica. Oh and wait for it….it is also the home to the famous Moulin Rouge. Can you believe it! I was so close and missed it! How devastating!
On the bright side, at least I’m a bit more knowledgeable for my next trip 🙂 All in all Paris was fabulous and I would definitely go again.
Have a great weekend.
xoxoxo
thelittlelushthings 