Paris

Paris is a great city to shop for fine jewelry, as several of the world's most prominent jewelry houses were founded here. Head to the 1st arrondissement to find some of the best jewelry shopping in the city.

Down rue de la Paix you'll find stores full of diamonds and other precious gems, like Burma, Van Cleef & Arpels, Mellerio Dits Meller, and more, until you arrive at la Place Vendôme, where you'll find the flagship stores of some of the biggest jewelry houses in the world- the new Louis Vuitton fine jewelry boutique, Cartier, Jaeger le Coultre, Van Cleef & Arpels original flagship and jewelry making school, Boucheron, Chaumet, and also a Chanel fine jewelry boutique.

Hidden off of the Place is a custom jewelry maker who services only the creme de la creme when it comes to clients. JAR, named after its founder and designer, Joel Arthur Rosenthal, has a very discrete boutique open only by appointment. When you arrive at JAR, you can request access by pushing the rose in the wall under the archway leading off the Place de Vendôme. It's so hidden that you could easily walk past it and never know it was there. 

See All Answers

Finding a good haircut while traveling is never easy. It took me nearly two years to find a salon I loved, and others that I am looking forward to trying. Here are my tips for the best hair salons in Paris, based on my own experiences and those of my close friends. 

1. Messieurs Dames: This cool salon is located in the Marais. It's a seriously no frills, no fuss salon, with talented hair stylists and a super cool vibe. I love the line of products they use by Kevin Murphy, and they always seem to get my cut and blow dry perfect. Ask for a rendez-vous with Sebastien or Yumi, they are both amazing (as are all of their stylists I am sure). My favorite place to get my haircut in Paris!

Meisseurs Dames
5 rue Charles-François Dupuis, Paris 3ème.

2. David Mallett: This is one of the most prestigious hair salons in Paris, with a team that treats you like a princess and a price that matches. They are known to be the queen of colouring, and the location is stunning. Located in a private apartment that is nearly 4,000 square feet, this classic Parisian atmosphere makes for the perfect Parisian hair salon experience. 

David Mallett
14 Rue Notre-Dame des Victoires, Paris 2eme.

3. Atelier 7: If you are looking to get your hair coloured, this is another salon to check outm for they treat each head of hair like an artist's canvas. The interior is totally zen, which creates a nice relaxing atmosphere for your hair styling experience. The salon also offers a great head massage and even a mani/pedi if you need it. 

Atelier 7
36 rue des Tournelles, Paris 4ème.

4. Herbert Bauer: Another salon where the head massage is killer and the location makes the experience all the more enjoyable. At Herbert Bauer in the 2nd arrondissement, the hair stylists like Herbert himself pay attention to your every need to make sure that your haircut is the perfect complement to your natural face shape and hair texture. 

Herbert Bauer
3, rue d'Aboukir, Paris 2ème.

See All Answers

Brunch is one of the many things in Paris that has recently taken off thanks to the American influcence in the city today. It's a wonderful meal, and is enjoyed by both visitors and locals alike on saturday and sunday early afternoons. Here are a few of my favorite brunch spots in Paris:

1. Hotel Amour: This is a really cool hotel located in the 9th arrondissement just off of a market street called rue des Martyrs. It is open for lunch and dinner every day of the week, and brunch on Sundays. In the warmer months, the interior terrace is opened up to the outside, making it a little oasis in the middle of the city. The interior is chic and the menu is quite simple, yet it has everything you need for a good brunch. The scrambled eggs and potatoes are delicious, as is their famous cheeseburger. They also make some great salads and a classic croque monsieur. 

2. Mama Shelter- this is another hotel offering a fabulous brunch, but this time it is buffet style. Don't think of some divey hotel brunch, Mama Shelter is top notch. The location is a bit out of the way, but the expansive brunch offerings and super cool decor make it worth the trek. There is a great patio outside that spans the side of the hotel overlooking abandoned railroad tracks, perfect for brunching in the summertime. They have everything from the classic brunch foods to a pizza bar, a desert section that is to die for, unlimited coffee and even some brunchy cocktails. Just a tip- the sunday brunch is about three times as expensive (and as big) as brunch the rest of the week. You can go to Mama Shelter any morning for a great full breakfast. 

3. Le Bal- I love this place both for their fabulous coffee and for their great brunch menu. On the weekends, Le Bal is packed with the coffee-loving crowd out the door. The wait usually moves quickly, and the brunch menu is worth it. Plus, while you are waiting, you can explore the art gallery and bookshop that is also at Le Bal, and nibble on a homemade pastry or bread if you're starving. 

Some other great places to check out for breakfast and brunch in Paris are- Bob's Kitchen in the Marais, a healthy, cool vegetarian spot, Claus which offers amazing homemade baked goods, granolas, and other interesting things, and Rose Bakery, which is another organic spot with flatbreads, inventive salads, and sweets. 

See All Answers

One of the most interesting facets of visiting Paris is the language barrier. Many visitors come to France thinking one of two things: either, everyone speaks English so I don't need to know French, or the exact opposite. It's important to know before you come to Paris that the French people take their language very serously. There is even a governing body called the Academie Française that was founded hundreds of years ago for the purpose of protecting the French language and determining which modern words would be added each year! 

As for the language barrier, I think the easiest way to determine whether you should assume one way or the other, is to imagine if a French person came to your home state and just began rambling off in French to you, expecting that you could reply back in their language. That is exactly how they feel when a visitor does the same to them in English (or whatever your mother tongue is).

Before you come to Paris, it's always a good idea to buy a little guide book with commonly used French phrases. They are often spelled out phonetically, making the words much easier for the Anglophone tongue to pronounce.To be courteous, try to learn how to say hello and ask them if they speak English in French before diving in. 

To put you at ease in case learning even these phrases makes anxious, it's true that most Parisians can understand basic English, but I can't promise that they'll always acknowledge your question. There are also many ex-pats in Paris, and in some of the trendy restaurants in town you are bound to hear a handful of English-speaking patrons. 

See All Answers

Parisians are known for having a chic, effortless style. But let me tell you, their style secrets aren't all that secret, and it's quite easy to copy them when packing for your trip to Paris. Here are the key things to remember when packing your suitcase:

1. Layers- considering the weather in Paris is unpredictable and rarely follows the rules of the seasons, it's always a good idea to bring clothes that can be easily layered. Light shirts and jackets for spring and summer are always a good choice, while in the winter you'll need to bring some heavier layers. It's always important to remember a rain jacket, as Paris has quite an extended rainy season these days.

2. Neutrals- one thing you'll notice about a Parisian's wardrobe is that there is little color to it. Here, its all neutrals- from black to grey, taupe to white, and often some navy blue, there isn't anything that can make packing easier than bringing items that are all in the same color family. If you want to limit the shoes you're bringing, try to stick to an all black and white, or an all tan, brown and white color scheme.

3. Day vs. Night- If you have the luxury of no weight limit on your bags, then it's a great idea to bring some nice clothes for going out and some casual clothes for the daytime. A great pair of jeans, flats or cute sneakers, some comfortable tops, a light jacket and a purse that is big enough to fit your camera and the essentials is all you really need for the daytime. 

4. Special Occasions- Paris is a quite casual (chic) city, despite its lofty reputation for high fashion. Unless you're eating at Alain Ducasse or something of the equivalent, then there aren't many occasions where you'll need a tux or cocktail dress. If you plan on seeing a performance at the Palais Garnier, you might want to bring a nice outfit, as jeans and sneakers aren't well looked upon. 

5.Outfit Repeating- One thing that might surprise you about Paris is that the French are known for their talent of wearing the same outift as many times as possible. I suppose it's true that "if it works, why change it?" but it also makes your life a lot easier when packing. Don't worry about bringing a different outfit for every day, instead, refer to tip #1 and remember layering also works when outfit repeating! 

Bonus Tip #6: Empty Suitcase- Or, you could do as I would love to do, and come to Paris with an empty suitcase and just buy everything here! At least that way you have a much higher chance of not looking like a tourist. On a more serious note, don't forget to pack a weekend bag if you plan on taking an overnight trip from Paris and don't want to lug your big suitcase with you. 

See All Answers

Yam'Tcha

This Michelin starred Asian-fusion bistro located in the 1st arrondissement beautifully blends the flavours of Chinese cooking with the traditional techniques of French cuisine. French Chef Adeline Gattard and her Hong-Kong native husband, Chan Chi-Wah, combine their passions for food and drink to produce skilfully balanced dishes complemented by either a wine or tea pairing. Their inventive use of seasonal ingredients is highlighted by the beautiful presentation of the dishes, as well as the modern décor of the restaurant.

4 Rue Sauval 75001 Paris
Tel: +33 (0)1 40 26 08 07

Frenchie

Chef Gregory Marchand and his team continue to steal our hearts with their seasonal menu highlighting the most beautiful flavours in the epicurean spectrum. During the spring and summer, seafood and market fresh ingredients arrive daily. Located on a cobblestone pathway in the 2nd arrondissement, we suggest booking a table well in advance. Should you not be able to get a table, head across the alley to their wine bar, where similar seasonal menu items and an equally impressive wine list are available sans reservation.

5-6 Rue du Nil 75002 Paris
Tel: +33 (0)1 40 39 96 19

Plaza Athénée

World-renowned chef, Alain Ducasse, takes entertaining to new heights with his restaurant at the Plaza Athénée. Earning a place among the most revered restaurants in the world with a rating of three Michelin Stars, this restaurant, serves perfectly prepared gastronomic cuisine, with a focus on fresh products. Perfectly decorated in the extravagant style of Louis XV, diners are sure to have an exquisite experience, unlike any other before.

25 Avenue Montaigne 75008, Paris
Tel: +33 1 53 67 66 65

Jean François Piege

With two Michelin stars and the title of Top Chef France under his belt, chef Jean François Piege, together with his associate Thierry Costes, and designer India Mahdavi bring you a haute gastronomic restaurant in the Thoumieux Hotel. Surrounded by pop colours and plush seating, the relaxing ambiance is complemented by the super refined cuisine. The chef indulges in his culinary visions with the Règle du Je(u) menu, which highlights 1, 2, or 3 seasonal ingredients of your choice in a series of courses.

Hotel Thoumieux
79 rue Saint-Dominique, Paris 75007
Tel. +33 (0)1 4705 4975

Apicius

Tucked away in a Haussmannian mansion near the Triangle d’Or is Apicius, the two Michelin starred restaurant of Chef Jean-Pierre Vigato. Every last detail has been accounted for in this fine gastronomic restaurant where simplicity and balance are key. Between the dazzling setting, the selection of fine produce, seafood, meats and cheeses from around France, and the convivial atmosphere, Apicius is both a dining destination and the ultimate luxury experience.

Apicius Jean-Pierre Vigato
20 rue d'Artois, Paris 75008
Tel: +33 (0)1 4380 1966

Le Grand Véfour

Located in the gardens of the Palais Royal, where politicians, writers and artists alike have experienced fine cuisine for over 200 years, Le Grand Véfour is one of the most historic establishments for gastronomic dining in the world. Today, under the direction of Chef Guy Martin, Le Grand Véfour has kept up with the modern times while maintaining its historic lustre. This haute gastronomy establishment pays homage to the legacy of French cuisine by offering the best products from around the country in the original setting from 1784.

Le Grand Véfour
17 rue de Beaujolais, Paris 75001
Tel. +33 (0)1 4296 5627

See All Answers

Gontran Cherrier

Not only is Gontran one of Paris’ most charming bakers, but his pastries and breads are out-of-this-world good.  From the classics, like an apple crumble or a raspberry tart, to the unique, like a squid ink baguette with black sesame, Gontran never ceases to surprise. His bakery, located near the beautiful Sacre Coeur church in Montmartre, is the perfect place to stop for a sweet breakfast before you walk up the hill to visit, or as a place to please your sweet tooth on your way back down the hill after a day spent exploring the cobblestone streets.

Sébastien Gaudard

The prince of pastries, Sébastien Gaudard, learned from the best while working under Pierre Hermé at Fauchon, followed by the Délicabar in the Grande Épicerie of Le Bon Marché. In 2011, Chef Gaudard opened his own shop, La Maison Sébastien Gaudard on Paris’ right bank. This pastry shop not only produces some of the most beautiful cakes, breads, and chocolates in Paris, but it is a beautifully-designed shop as well. Indulge in your sweet tooth while you explore the eclectic neighborhood just below Montmartre.

Best Baguette 2013

Over 203 bakeries submitted their baguettes to this year’s competition for the best in the city, the winner of which receives the honor of supplying baguettes to the Elysée Palace, home of President Hollande, for one year. The little-known bakery, Au Paradis du Gourmand, in the 14th arrondissement was this year’s winner, giving us a good reason to trek down to the South of Paris for some baked goods. If his baguette is the best in Paris, I can only imagine how delectable his other pastries are.

Du Pain et des Idées

This bakery near the Canal Saint Martin was the 2012 winner for best baguette in Paris. It's a super charming place to pick up a baguette before heading to a picnic on the canal. Their Chausson au Pommes is known to be the best in the city, as are the classics like the croissant and pain au chocolat. Definitely one of the many bakeries you must visit while in Paris.  

See All Answers

Marché Raspail

Three times a week, this charming organic market takes over the pedestrian walkway on Boulevard Raspail. Filled with some of France’s finest artisans, produce growers, and bakers, this is a great place to prepare for a gourmet picnic. Head there on a Tuesday, Friday, or Sunday from 7 AM to 2:30 PM to stock up your basket with some delicious food and drinks. Be sure to bring your own picnic basket or shopping bag.

Marché Monge

If you’re in the mood for a typical Parisian picnic in a historical setting, then the Marché Monge in the Latin Quarter is a great place to start. Any Wednesday, Friday or Sunday from 7:30AM to 3PM, head to the cute Square Monge to find some delectable picnic basket fillings. Offering both prepared foods and fresh produce, you can finish preparing your picnic by stocking up on wine or other goodies along the market stree, rue Mouffetard.

Marché Grenelle

Each weekend, the pedestrian walkway underneath the metro station La Motte Picquet Grenelle transforms itself into a bustling open-air market filled with a variety of stalls offering fine French foods. Head to this market for a picnic of traditional items, a fresh baguette, some beautiful cheeses, grapes and of course, some wine from a small French producer.

Marché Bastille

One of the largest markets in Paris, the Marché Bastille welcomes over 115 vendors each weekend. Spanning from the Place de la Bastille up Boulevard Richard Lenoir, towards the Canal Saint Martin, the Bastille market is a wonderful place to either buy the makings for a picnic, or just browse the stalls and enjoy the smells of the various foods. The merchants offer more than fresh produce at the Marché Bastille, but also some regional prepared foods, like huge steaming pots of couscous and freshly baked meat pies. Here, you’ll also find spices, barrels of olives, fresh fish, saucisses, fresh-cut flowers, African batiks, and housewares.

See All Answers

Before coming to Paris, you have probably heard rumors that the French don't tip.  While the general understanding is that you don’t have to tip in Paris, the status-quo is actually changing.

In France, servers are paid a higher hourly wage than in America, but this is supposed to include the tip. While service in Paris can often be quite abrupt, and not ‘worthy’ of an additional tip, it is welcomed and encouraged to leave something for your server to let them know you appreciate their help.

I encourage diners to leave anywhere from 1€ to 20€ depending on the meal (lunch or dinner?), the type of restaurant (a corner cafe or a nice restaurant?), what you ordered (just a drink or a three-course meal?).

Tipping in Paris isn’t calculated as a percentage of your total, but rather as a symbol of your appreciation. If you have a fabulous three-course dinner at a restaurant, I suggest leaving upwards of 10-20€ (or more) for your waiter (assuming they were courteous and made your dinner more enjoyable). If you just got a drink at a bar or a quick lunch, an additional tip isn’t really necessary, but of course, always welcomed.

Servers don't mind answering the question "Is tip included?" because sometimes they are quite surprised by extra tips left by tourists, and have been known to come after you to return the change they thought you forgot to take! 

Don't forget that tipping is only possible in cash, as credit cards are run directly and there isn't a space to write in a tip on the receipt. 

David Lebovitz also has some good tips for tipping in Paris. 

See All Answers

Royal Monceau: My Blend by Clarins

Inside of the Royal Monceau- Raffles Hotel, newly renovated at the hands of Philippe Starck, is one of the most heavenly spas in Paris. The My Blend by Clarins Spa is unique because the treatments are adapted specifically to your skin’s needs. While waiting for your rejuvenating tri-active facial, such as the Jet-Lag Refresher, or the Luminosity Restorer, take a relaxing dip in their indoor pool, or lounge on their plush canapés. After being treated with the utmost service at the Royal Monceau, My Blend by Clarins Spa, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and renewed like never before.

Mandarin Oriental Spa

A stylish sanctuary located just steps from the haute couture heart of the city, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Paris offers a luxuriously holistic experience of pure serenity and rejuvenation. Many of the spa’s unique treatments have been developed with a sense of place. Their wonderful body therapy ‘Paris Passion’ combines a fabulous anti-aging pomegranate and honey scrub with a replenishing wrap, leaving the skin feeling nourished from head to toe.

Westin Paris Vendôme: Six Senses Spa

Bamboo has been used in Asia as a massage tool for years, and represents good luck, long life, peace and harmony. Nothing rejuvenates your mind, body, and spirit as much as a warm bamboo massage at the Six Senses Spa. Designed to target specific areas of stress in your body, the bamboo massage will bring relief and rejuvenation in its most natural form. The Six Senses Spa is an amazing zen escape in the heart of the 1st arrondissement. 

See All Answers

See All Answers

Paris is without doubt one of the best cities in the world for art, so I would have to say that the best indoor activities are focused around visiting museums and galleries. However, there are so many events happening throughout the year that it’s hard to choose which one to make the trip over for. If I had to narrow it down, I would choose Monumenta, the annual art installation at the Grand Palais.

This year the event was suspended but is set to take place in 2014. And judging by the past years’ shows, Monumenta rarely leaves viewers disappointed. Last year, French artist Daniel Buren was invited to create an installation for the impressive 13,500m2 domed glass and iron nave. He created a conceptual garden of coloured plastic shapes and although impactful, the best shows were the previous exhibitions. In 2011 Anish Kapoor with his incredible Leviathan, an enormous undistinguishable organic shape of special boating canvas that changed colour as the sun passed over the nave’s roof from east to west. Before Kapoor, in 2010, Christian Boltanski was commissioned to invest the space, and his eerie atmospheric installation was one of the best ever put on in the city. Centred around the holocaust, the show manipulated sight and sound to create an ambiance that plunged the viewer right at the heart of the cause – that of the disappeared during the Second World War. Next year, the artist to be invited hasn’t been revealed yet, but it’s bound to be worthwhile.

See All Answers