GIRLS TRIP TO PARIS....!

Paris was as beautiful and inspiring as ever.  It is one city that I know I shall never grow tired of.  Each time I return, there is always something new to discover, along with the familiar that makes me so happy to visit each time.  So easy to get to for us....a thirty minute drive to the Eurostar at Ashford last Thursday morning and under two hours later, the train drew in at Gare de Nord....perfect timing for lunch!

On this occasion, my daughter Georgie and I decided to rent a small Airbnb apartment in our favourite location of Le Marais.  I have never done this before, but would highly recommend it!  With more space than Paris's notoriously tiny hotel rooms, and a fraction of the cost, it was the perfect choice.   Our helpful and charming host was out of the country, hence the availability of his apartment, but everything was meticulously organised for us and our accommodation was so clean and comfortable....I shall definitely consider this option again.

Situated just a stone's throw from the beautiful 'Place des Vosges'....it could not have been more perfect.  For those of you who might not be familiar with Paris, Le Marais is an historic district on the right bank, spreading across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements.  With beautiful buildings of historical and architectural importance, original and inspiring artisan shops and boutiques, wonderful array of bars and restaurants, and a cool artistic vibe...it has something to please everyone.

The very slight draw back to the apartment was possibly the six steep flights of stairs leading to it! However we decided that this was a positive....great exercise to work off all the delicious food and wine that we enjoyed over the three days!

The reward for being so high up was also this fabulous view from our floor to ceiling windows, overlooking the rooftops and with the iconic 'Sacre Coeur' Cathedral in the distance.

Le Marais area is famous for its wonderful bakeries....tempting breakfast treats.

Floral and culinary inspiration everywhere we went....

...and no shopping trip to Paris would be complete without also a visit to the fabulous 'Galeries Lafayette' in the 9th arrondissement.

The newly restored Picasso Museum was a highlight...

...with the stunning architecture as much of a draw as the art.

Beautiful gardens in hidden squares were a delight to discover....

Several fantastic meals were had....and the trip would not have been complete without a visit to our absolute favourite restaurant 'Chez Janou' in Rue Roger Verlomme!

We must have walked miles over the few days we were there...enjoying the elegance of the lovely St. Germain district and the charming Ile St. Louis.

As we closed the magnificent doors to our apartment building, with our suitcases a little fuller than when we arrived....we were sad to leave.  A wonderful mother and daughter trip...special times with special memories.

 

Paris we miss you....but one thing is for sure....we shall return!

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Do you have a favourite area or place to visit in Paris?  I would so love to hear!

Wishing you a happy Thursday...

Sophia xx