Paris. What a gorgeous and sophisticated place it must be. I have yet to visit but look forward to the experience one day. In the meantime, I scroll through photos and read tips and stories from others who have been. Today I am sharing Paris through Michael and Christina Townsend's eyes. Be sure to visit their websites (links below) for more beautiful photos and great insights into their travels.
Written by: Michael & Christina Townsend
Photos by: Michael Townsend
TIPS & FAVES IN PARIS
Cultural Attribute
The city lives up to its fashionable reputation. The Parisians are a smartly dressed people
Tour/Museum
Pompidou, Arc de Triomphe, Tour de Eiffel
Architectural Details
Mansard Roofs, Eiffel Tower
Location
Go to Sacre Coeur for the view and the Montmartre neighborhood
Eats
Jim Haynes Sunday Night Dinners - Jim Haynes has been hosting a communal dinner every Sunday night at his artist’s studio in the 14th Arr. for the past thirty years. He is humorous, sweet, and really loves meeting and introducing new people to each other. We gathered with about 50 strangers from all over the world for a three course informal dinner provided by a volunteer chef. If you’re in paris on a Sunday you must not miss this amazing opportunity!
Frenchie - It’s really hard to get a reservation at Frenchie, but because of the restaurant’s instant popularity they opened the Wine Bar right across the alley. We didn’t have a reservation, and after a very long wait for a table (sipping wine in the meantime) the host told us a table at the actual restaurant had opened up. We had an amazing three course prix fixe meal that night and happened to meet Chef Gregory Marchand (who walked us through the surprising half dozen shotgun pellets level of a legitimate “wild” duck).
A tour of Chocolatiers - Hugo et Victor, La Chocolaterie de Jacques Génin, Henri Le Roux Caramélier-Chocolatier
Drinks
Mama Shelter, Ten Belles Coffee Shop
Don't leave home without
An umbrella
Don't leave Paris without
Eating as many pastries as you can every day (some favorites to try: Du Pain et Des Idees, Boulangerie Gontran Cherrier, Pierre Herme, Laduree) and comfortable and stylish walking shoes
