Day Trip to Versailles

Last photos from Paris, I promise. I thought I’d share my pictures from our day trip out of the city and down to Versailles. I have mixed emotions about Versailles, the palace and grounds are breath taking and stunning, however I went in August and the it was completely over-run with tourists (like myself). This in it’s self is fine, but lines were really long for everything and I spent most of the day waiting, not exploring. Moan aside, I would totally recommend this as a day trip if you’re in Paris, just don’t go in peak tourist season, like I did. Also, if you’re under 26 and have id you get in free – which is very nice. Here is a selection of photos from the day, we started with the main palace, the gardens, boating on the lake and then out to Marie Antoinette’s estate including the Queen’s Hamlet – which was my favourite thing by far. Also, I have to say thank you my sister for lending me her camera – as you can see I was very snap happy! If anyone is thinking of going to Paris, I have put a few more pictures on my Flickr.

Merci, Paris

Whilst in Paris I visited the very lovely Merci. It really is a stunning concept store filled with imaginative things. I loved how much space they have and the interesting ways they have used it. One thing that really stood out to me in Parisian stores was how relaxed they are. Taking a few snaps never seems to be a problem, unlike England and the service never pushy. Many of the items in Merci are a little eye watering and out my modest price range, but the space is so inviting. The used book cafe downstairs draws an eclectic crowd of coffee drinkers, lunch eaters and mothers with push chairs. I loved how the store was more than a store, it was a place to relax, meet and gain inspiration. I really hope more of these spring up everywhere (especially London) – it’s a fantastic concept.  Here’s a little peek at how it looked during my visit last week.

Exploring Paris

Last week Miles and I went to Paris for a long weekend. It’s no secret that I am a real francophile, I love the language, the food and romanticism of France. It’s the country that I have visited most, I just seem to keep going back. We have been to Paris before 5 years a go, way back when both Miles and were students, so this visit was very different to the last. Most notably, we could afford meals out, something we didn’t have the luxury of last time. We made do with bread and snacks for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Anyway, student days aside here is a run down of our trip in photos.

You may notice a lack of Eiffel Tower etc shots, sorry Miles and made the decision, having explored the main tourist attractions last time to try to explore the lesser known and more unseen parts of the city. I love all the main attractions in Paris, but wanted to see more of the city that the residents see. This is why we hired bikes, went to parks, stayed in the East and eat at many places that only spoke French (he,he it was tough, we try our best). I have to say thank you to Hip Paris as I followed the restaurant reviews and guides to the word. We ate at The Rose Bakery, Pramil, Coco Cook and Le Temps au Temps – all on Hip Paris’ recommendation and loved them all! I love being able to find a blog like this that I feel I have a lot in common with and can use it as a real resource. More Paris to come.