A pre-Christmas trip to Paris was simply irresistible, thanks to the opening of a brand-new hotel, a stunning art gallery, and two captivating exhibitions in my favorite museums. The city was buzzing with excitement, and I couldn’t wait to explore its hidden gems.
Bloom House: A Garden Oasis in the City
The newly opened Bloom House Hotel & Spa, with its 91 stylish rooms, was a perfect starting point for my Parisian adventure. After a stress-free journey on the Eurostar, I stepped off at Gare du Nord and found myself in a tranquil courtyard garden just 10 minutes away. A sparkling green-tiled pond served as the focal point, surrounded by lush greenery and a pergola adorned with twinkling festoon lights – the perfect setting for an evening cocktail.
Canal Saint-Martin: A Boho Haven
Just a short walk from the hotel, I discovered the bohemian charm of Canal Saint-Martin. This vibrant canal, stretching through the 10th and 11th arrondissements, is a treasure trove of independent shops, delis, and cafes. I wandered along the Quai de Valmy, drawn to the colorful sunflower facade of Antoine & Lili, a trio of boutiques brimming with stylish clothing and accessories. My heart skipped a beat when I stumbled upon their collection of velvet, flared trousers – a true fashionista’s dream.
A Parisian Feast: From Ice Cream to Gastronomic Delights
Paris is a city that knows how to tantalize the taste buds, and I was ready to indulge. I couldn’t resist the allure of Sucre Glace, an artisanal ice cream shop, where the queue snaked down the street. The wait was worth it, especially for their vegan pear and tonka bean sorbet – a delightful treat that perfectly captured the essence of Parisian indulgence.
Art & Culture: A Journey Through History & Creativity
My Parisian adventure wouldn’t be complete without a dose of art and culture. I visited Père-Lachaise cemetery, a historic resting place for iconic figures like Jim Morrison, Modigliani, Colette, and Proust. A visit to Modigliani’s modest grave, marked by a pair of paintbrushes, sparked my curiosity about the artist’s life and work, leading me to the Musée de l’Orangerie.
The exhibition “Amedeo Modigliani. A painter and his dealer” was a captivating journey through the artist’s relationship with Parisian art dealer Paul Guillaume. It was a testament to Modigliani’s talent and the profound influence Paris had on his art.
Across the Seine, at the Musée d’Orsay, I was mesmerized by the “Van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise” exhibition. This collection brought together the final works of the troubled artist, including his powerful and poignant “Tree Roots”.
Parisian Chic: A New Gallery & A British Twist
The art scene in Paris was thriving, with the newly opened Hauser & Wirth gallery adding to the city’s cultural landscape. This imposing space, housed in a neoclassical hôtel particulier near the Champs-Élysées, showcased the work of Los Angeles-based figurative painter Henry Taylor.
For those seeking a taste of home, Lordy’s Paris Club, a newly refurbished French restaurant with a British twist, offered a comforting cheese and mushroom “British pie”. However, for those seeking a more authentic Parisian experience, the ParisLocal event, featuring over 600 artisans, offered a glimpse into the heart of Parisian craftsmanship.
Farewell to Paris: A City of Endless Discoveries
As my Parisian adventure drew to a close, I found myself back at Canal Saint-Martin, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Marché Bastille. I strolled through the market, marveling at the vibrant displays of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local crafts. A steampunk-inspired cow-cum-bicycle trailer, pedaled by a human “bell artist”, added a touch of whimsical charm to the scene.
Leaving Paris was bittersweet, but I carried with me the memories of a city that continues to captivate and inspire. From the charming canalside boutiques to the iconic art museums, Paris is a city that never fails to leave its mark.
