Helen

What initially drew you to Paris?

I felt an undeniable connection to Paris from the very first time I visited the city after I got engaged and with every trip since then, my  love for Paris has just intensified. I think I was Parisian in a previous life !

How has your relationship with Paris evolved?

From my first solo trip back in January 2019, I came as a very nervous blogger eager to discover the city on my own to a seasoned Parisian visitor, the city really feels like a second home now. I discover something new every time I visit Paris which is around 4-5 times a year.

What most surprised you about Paris?

The myth that Parisian’s are snooty and rude! That’s just not true. Make an effort with the language, I can assure you, you will be rewarded with the friendliest French hospitality.

Are there any of aspects of Parisian life that you dislike?

I don’t like that Parisians don’t clean up after their dogs.  You really do have to be careful when you’re walking in the city for fear of treading in something – it’s not so much a case of looking up when in Paris, you really have to look down.

Coming from London where it is actually the law, you have to pick up after your dog, unless you want a hefty fine, I’m proud that London is actually one of the cleanest cities to live in.

I wish other European cities would follow suit and make it their mission to clean up their cities. Paris needs to really take hold of the litter and grafitti problem although there is lots of beautiful street art especially in the Marais.

What’s your favorite thing about Paris in general?

I just love sitting at a cafe « en terrasse » and people watching, a favorite French pastime and it’s something that I always look forward to doing when in Paris. I love that come rain or shine, Parisians enjoy a coffee or an apéro outside with a blanket if it’s chilly.

If Paris were a song?

It would definitely be La Belle Vie by Sacha Distel

Helen’s Favorite Places in Paris

• Sightseeing: For a first time visitor, it would definitely be to see the Eiffel Tower not just during the day (to take a ride to the summit) but see it from Place du Trocadero at night. All the museums especially the smaller ones, Gustave Moreau, Musee de la Vie Romantique, the covered passages of the Grands Boulevards and a must visit is a guided tour of the Palais Garnier; it’s mesmerising.
• Strolls: Walk the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter and the cobbled streets of the Marais, discover the back streets of Montmartre, getting lost in Paris is a must. Of course, the jardins of Paris. My favorite is the Luxembourg Gardens.
• Restaurants: Chez L’Ami Jean, Bistro Paul Bert, Le Bon Georges for authentic bistro food. Café des Musées in the Marais for the best Beef Bourguignon and for special occasions, I love Monsieur Bleu for magical Eiffel Tower views at night, Coco and Lou Lou  and Pink Mama for the fun vibes and very good reasonably priced Italian food. And Briezh Café for superb crêpes.
• Coffee Shops: Noir Coffee, Café Kitsuné, Fringe, Back in Black
• Bars: Candelaria, Bar 228 at Le Meurice Hotel, Bisou!
• Bakeries: Stohrer, Au Petit Versailles du Marais
• Shopping: All the shops in the Marais! Some are: Granado, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Palais des Thés, Panier Des Sens, Officine Universelle Buly 1803, Eataly,  The Kooples, Koshka, Sézane, Polene bags, and Rose Desgranges for the best niche rose perfume you won’t find anywhere else. I also love window shopping on Avenue Montaigne,