The City of Lights, Love, and Timeless Charm
Paris, often referred to as the "City of Lights," is a place that needs no introduction. Its mere mention evokes images of iconic landmarks, romantic boulevards, and a rich tapestry of art, culture, and history. Paris is not just a destination; it's an experience. In this Paris Olympics month, let's dive into what makes this city so enchanting and timeless.
Fashion And Shopping: A Shopper's Paradise
Paris is synonymous with fashion and shopping. The Champs-Élysées, home to haute couture boutiques, is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts. Stroll through Le Marais for trendy finds, explore vintage markets, or visit Galeries Lafayette for luxury shopping.
Café Culture: Sip And Savour Parisian Life
Parisians have mastered the art of leisurely café culture. Sit at a sidewalk café, sipping espresso or wine, watching the world go by. Try the flaky croissants, delicate macarons, or the classic escargot at a traditional bistro. Parisian dining is a sensory experience, and each meal is a celebration of flavours.
Seine River: The Lifeblood Of Paris
The Seine River weaves through Paris, dividing the city into two halves. A Seine River cruise offers a unique perspective of Paris's landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Musée d'Orsay. In the evening, the city's bridges and buildings light up, creating a romantic ambiance.
Eiffel Tower: A Symbol Of Love And Architecture
The Eiffel Tower, Paris's most iconic landmark, stands tall as a symbol of love and architectural marvel. Whether you admire it from the Trocadéro Gardens or ascend to its lofty heights for breath-taking views of the city, the Eiffel Tower never fails to leave an indelible impression. Couples flock here for romantic moments, and visitors are awestruck by its intricate iron lattice design.
Louvre Museum: A Treasure Trove Of Art
The Louvre, the world's largest art museum, houses an astonishing collection of art spanning centuries and continents. From Leonardo da Vinci's enigmatic "Mona Lisa" to the mesmerizing "Venus de Milo," the Louvre is a cultural pilgrimage site. It's not just about art; it's a journey through human history.
Gardens And Green Spaces: Oases Of Tranquillity
Paris takes pride in its well-maintained gardens and parks. The Jardin des Tuileries, Luxembourg Gardens, and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offer lush greenery and peaceful retreats within the bustling city. They are perfect spots for picnics, people-watching, or simply unwinding.
Montmartre: The Bohemian Haven
Montmartre, with its cobblestone streets and artistic legacy, is a glimpse into the bohemian soul of Paris. Visit the Place du Tertre, where street artists create masterpieces before your eyes. The magnificent Sacré-Coeur Basilica atop Montmartre offers panoramic views and a sense of serenity.
Versailles: A Royal Extravaganza
A short train ride from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a dazzling display of opulence. The Hall of Mirrors, the Grand Trianon, and the sprawling gardens exemplify the extravagance of the French monarchy. It's a journey back in time to the age of kings and queens.
Paris is a city that captures hearts and inspires dreams. It's a place where art, history, and romance converge. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, Paris continues to unveil its magic, one enchanting moment at a time. This city is not just a destination, it's an everlasting love affair. Vive Paris!
Our Top Parisian Hotel Picks:
Le Bristol
Le Bristol Paris is an icon of French elegance and art de vivre boasting 190 completely renovated rooms and suites in the heart of Paris.
Shangri-La
In the former home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, overlooking the Eiffel Tower and River Seine in the 16th arrondissement, ultimate Parisian elegance lives on at Shangri-La Paris.
Kimpton
Kimpton St Honoré Paris is located minutes away from the renowned Opera Garnier, Faubourg St Honoré, and the Tuileries Gardens. The hotel celebrates its 1917 Art Nouveau façade heritage from the former Samaritaine de Luxe, a registered Historic Monument.
The Grand Powers
Majestically installed in the heart of the Parisian Golden Triangle since 1920, celebrates its history. This 5-star residence virtuously embodies a perfect balance between heritage and innovation. Sublimation of the old, exaltation of heritage, celebration of modernity and discreet elegance are the foundations of the Grand Powers experience.
Madame Reve
Just a stone’s throw from the Louvre Museum, Hôtel Madame Rêve is part of the revival of the luxury hotel industry. This unique 5-star hotel, in the iconic the Grande Poste de Paris building, boasts 82 rooms and suites with panoramic views over all of Paris, the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre.
Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme
Place Vendôme's contemporary palace-hotel, is an intimate Parisian residence where art elegantly blends with French classicism.
SO/Paris
A hotel to know. Rooted in the world of fashion and art, the newly opened SO/Paris is an iconic headquarters for Parisians and travellers looking to join the front row.
Our Pick Of Cafes:
La Maidon Rose
This cafe/ restaurant, whose name means Pink House. Located in the Montmartre neighbourhood, La Maison Rose is of the cutest out there.
Traditional French style cafe dishes like Croque Monsieur sandwiches can be found on the menu.
“Merci” Used Book Cafe
Located in Paris’ hip Marais district, Cafe Merci is a firm favourite. There are over 10,000 books which means you’ll spend many hours browsing through them, trying the coffee and sampling many of their delicacies on offer, from bagels, to egg dishes and variety of cakes. Cosy environment with a great vibe.
Café Marlette
Originally an organic bake mix company is now a loved cafe in Paris. Organic cakes, pancakes and muffins are available. “Le Prince,” a breakfast sandwich that can be prepared to go is also on offer.
Café Des Chats
Couple of locations in the city. Each location is home to approximately 12 rescue cats. They have all be chosen based on their good behaviour and social adaptability. Guests can sip at their coffee or eat many of the delicious dishes whilst petting the cats.
Our Pick Of Unusual Experiences:
Ballroom dancing at the waterfront at the Jardin Tino Rossi
During the summer along the left bank of Port St Bernard comes alive with people strolling, picnicking and ballroom dancing. Every evening, starting June 1 through the end of August, dancers gather along the river bank.
Unusual museums
The Museum of Comparative Anatomy and Paleontology provides an amazing look into a the world of 19th-century science. Others include the Musée de Quai Branly, Musé de Moyen Age and Musée des Arts et Métiers.
Hunting for Roman ruins in Paris
This stunning city is still dotted with numerous ancient Roman past: a coliseum, baths, and various remains of walls, pillars and carved stones lie strewn about the city. While the Roman Baths at Cluny are probably the most impressive architectural remnant from the Roman past, the Archaeological Crypt near Notre Dame reveals the center of the old Roman city of Lutetia.
Stroll along the Promenade Plantée and Viaduc des Arts
A long, narrow stretch of trees and flowers flourish on what once was an elevated railway track. The promenade, also referred to by locals as La Coulée Verte, stretches from Bastille through the area around Gare de Lyon and Bercy, all the way to the west entrance of the Bois de Vincennes.
French 19th-century covered passages
Explore the remnants of the post-revolution rise of the middle-class in France and experience the charming bustle of these streets (perfect for rainy days) , these precursors of today’s department stores and malls have mostly disappeared. Less than 30 still exist today. They stretch from Passage Vivienne, behind the Palais Royal, continuing northbound, where they end at rue Cadet, a charming, bustling little street. Passage hopping is perfect for a rainy day in Paris.
Fine wine at the Canal St Martin
Many Paris first-timers (and a lot of long-timers) have yet to experience the Canal St Martin, but it is a popular treat with in-the-know Parisians, artists and the Bobo-Chic crowd. Use a Canal St Martin walking tour to find the most charming areas.
Paris street art
The best spot for a graffiti-viewing urban safari is the Canal St Martin, one of the most exciting and up-and-coming areas in town.
Parisian art and culture events
One highlight is to catch a typical Parisian event. these include and not limited to, Nuit Blanche, held every autumn, is the one night a year when galleries, museums, and other art and cultural institutions are open all night, free of charge. In June should not miss the Fête de la Musique, when the streets will be filled with dancers into the early morning hours.
Embracing the Splendour: Your Guide to Japan's Cherry Blossom Season
As winter fades into memory and spring gently awakens the land, Japan transforms into a canvas painted in delicate shades of pink and white. The cherry blossom season, or "Sakura" as it's fondly known, is a time of celebration, reflection, and sheer natural beauty. If you're planning a journey to experience this ephemeral wonder, let's navigate through the best towns to visit, approximate dates, and the ideal timeframe for making plans.
The Best Towns to Experience Cherry Blossoms
1. Kyoto: Known for its historical charm, Kyoto boasts numerous cherry blossoms viewing spots such as Maruyama Park, Philosopher's Path, and the iconic Arashiyama district. The city's temples and shrines provide a serene backdrop for hanami, the tradition of flower viewing.
2. Tokyo: Japan's bustling capital offers a plethora of cherry blossom viewing opportunities. Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi are among the top spots where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Sakura amidst the urban landscape.
3. Nara: Home to friendly deer and ancient temples, Nara becomes even more enchanting during cherry blossom season. Visit Nara Park and Mount Yoshino for breathtaking vistas and memorable experiences.
4. Kanazawa: Nestled in Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa's Kenrokuen Garden is renowned for its meticulously landscaped grounds adorned with cherry blossoms. The serene atmosphere and traditional teahouses offer a perfect retreat from the modern world.
5. Hakodate: Located in Hokkaido, Hakodate offers a unique cherry blossom experience with its late blooming trees. Goryokaku Park, with its star-shaped fort, becomes a sea of pink during late April, offering a picturesque setting for hanami.
Approximate Dates for Cherry Blossom Blooming
Cherry blossom season in Japan typically spans from late March to early April, though this can vary depending on the region and local climate conditions. To catch the peak bloom, consider the following approximate dates:
Kyoto & Tokyo: Late March to early April
Nara & Kanazawa: Early to mid-April
Hakodate (Hokkaido): Late April to early May
Planning and Booking Your Trip
For a seamless cherry blossom experience, it's advisable to start planning your trip at least 6 to 9 months in advance, especially if you're aiming to secure accommodation during peak season. Flights and accommodations tend to fill up quickly, so early booking ensures availability and often better rates.
When booking accommodations, consider staying in centrally located areas with easy access to transportation hubs and cherry blossom viewing spots. Additionally, keep an eye out for special events or festivals happening during your visit, as they can enhance your overall experience.
In conclusion, Japan's cherry blossom season is a magical time filled with beauty, tradition, and unforgettable moments. By choosing the right towns to visit, timing your trip correctly, and planning in advance, you can immerse yourself in this captivating natural spectacle and create memories to last a lifetime.
Movies to Inspire your next Travel Adventures
Have you ever seen a place, country, locale, landscape, city in a film and thought to yourself “I would love to visit.”? How about going back to a comfort film to watch during long flights or wait times at the airport? We’ve compiled a short list of just such films to help make a good holiday great, or to help inspire the next one.
Raiders Of the Lost Ark
Now here’s one that will forever stand the test of time. With more iconic cinematic moments to count, it’s hard to say something about Spielberg’s globe-trotting classic that hasn’t already been said, but one thing is for certain, seeing those famous map sequences play over John William’s brilliant Indy theme never gets old!
Lost in Translation
A down to earth film about the unpredictable nature of traveling to a new country. While the film uses its setting to convey a feeling of isolation, the beautiful and unlikely relationship that blossoms in the film’s stunning Tokyo aesthetic makes this one a must watch.
Hunt for the Wilder People
Arguably the catalyst for Taika Waititi’s career is this light-hearted picture that is difficult to label. Carrying elements of drama, and comedy, this coming-of-age father-son adventure takes the viewer on a majestical tour of the Auckland wilderness. Truly one for the lovers of jaw dropping scenery!
Six days Seven Nights
Another Harrison Ford flick, this time as a crusty cargo pilot opposite Anne Heche in a jam-packed romantic comedy action adventure that has a little something for everyone. Here, two people of different backgrounds and ages are forced to cooperate and survive after finding themselves on a deserted island.
The Terminal
An Eastern European tourist unexpectedly finds himself stranded in JFK airport and must take temporary residence there. If time at the airport has ever seemed frustrating or stressful, then look no further than Viktor Navorski’s story to put your nerves at ease! Here, the compressed universe of the terminal is presented as a richly complex world of absurdity, generosity, ambition, amusement, status, serendipity… and even romance! Starring Tom Hanks and directed by Stephen Spielberg this cinematic dark horse is more than worth a traveller’s time.
Planes Trains and Automobiles
All that Neal Page wants to do is to get home for Thanksgiving. When bad weather cancels his flight, he decides on other means of transportation. As well as bad luck, Neal is blessed with the presence of Del Griffith, a shower-curtain-ring salesman and all-around blabbermouth who is never short of advice, conversation, bad jokes, or company. A light-hearted comedy that shows even if everything goes wrong the people, you’re with make everything better.
The Motorcycle Diaries
A beautiful film based on the memoirs of Che Guevara, this dramatisation of a motorcycle road trip will take you to incredible places in South America. Two lads encounter hunger, accidents, lusting after women at every stop, ingratiating panhandling, and the gradual revelation of the quality of life of the indigenous peoples. The camera work, musical scoring, the obvious commitment on the part of everyone involved - every aspect of The Motorcycle Diaries is exactly right and a must watch for any travel enthusiast.
Death on the Nile (1978)
Although there have been many versions of this, one of Agatha Christie’s best works, the ’78 rendition of the classic mystery features fine Egyptian scenery, Oscar-winning costumes, and a complementary music score to make this a must watch.
The Bucket List
Two terminally ill men escape from a cancer ward and head off on a road trip with a wish list of to-dos before they die. This one stars two fantastic actors, in Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, and tells a story about the journey of finding friendship, discoveries and redemption. There are some laugh out loud moments and one-liners, and strong moments of drama given the films topics. It is a combination of road trip, buddy film, and coming of age - very refreshing for two senior citizens and makes for a wholesome watch!
The Beach
Based on a novel by Alex Garland and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, ‘The Beach’ follows the story of Richard, a nicotine addicted traveller who finds a map that supposedly leads to an island rumoured to be a solitary paradise. The film showcases beautiful Thailand scenery in visceral dreamlike scenes that puts the viewer in the shoes of the traveller.
Out of Africa
It would be difficult to have a list of travel films and not include this classic. Commonly seen as one of the best of its genre, Meryl Streep stars alongside Robert Redford in a film in which the performances, musical score and African landscape are all virtues in equal measure. Based on a true story, a Danish baroness has a passionate love affair with a free-spirited big game hunter. This multiple Academy Award winning film, including those for Best Picture and Best Cinematography, will forever be seen as Sydney Pollack's masterpiece and a classic of our times.
Ticket to Paradise
George Clooney and Julia Roberts together again in this new romcom. A divorced couple teams up and travels to Bali to stop their daughter from making the same mistake they think they made 25 years ago. A good way to briefly escape all the realistic geo-economic-political intrigue of current events and be transported to a beautiful island beach with amazing sunsets. We deserve it.
Slumdog Millionaire
A unique film that embraces the style of Indian Bollywood cinema. That said, Director Danny Boyle mixes in a distinctly Western style of filmmaking, one that leaves out the tragic love story, the song and the dance common in Bollywood, for a film that tells the story of a Mumbai teenager reflecting on his life after being accused of cheating on the Indian version of "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?”. Truly one that transcends cultures by asking questions of fate, righteousness, greed, and even urban sprawl.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
British retirees travel to India to take up residence in what they believe is a newly restored hotel. Less luxurious than advertised, the Marigold Hotel nevertheless slowly begins to charm in unexpected ways. An absolutely stellar cast are well served by an intelligent witty script with some killer one-liners which are guaranteed to laugh out loud. Only occasionally does it get sentimental, but the seductive nature of India weaves its spell not just on the characters but also on us.
Australia
Set in northern Australia before WWII, an Englishwoman who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stockman in order to drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscapes. Australia is a totally unashamedly romantic adventure film painted on a huge canvas and a tried-and-true romantic adventure period piece.
Books To Get Inspired By
Maison Assouline London
We have curated a selection of exceptional reads to ignite the wanderlust in us all, and perhaps even inspire a new bucket list. Our collection spans a range of genres, from captivating real-life experiences to beautifully crafted fictional tales.
Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne
This timeless classic, the second most translated book since 1979, takes readers on an epic journey around the world. Jules Verne’s novel follows the adventures of Phileas Fogg as he navigates through exotic and perilous locales. It’s a delightful read, brimming with humour, excitement, and a touch of fantasy.
The Journey Matters by Jonathan Glancey
Jonathan Glancey captures the golden age of travel in this enchanting book. The early 20th century was an era of romance and adventure, filled with the glamour and elegance of exploring the unknown. Glancey’s writing transports readers back to a time when travel was a luxurious and thrilling experience, even if today we might find ourselves crammed into economy seats on budget airlines.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
For those who haven’t seen the film, this book is a must-read. Set among the ultra-wealthy Chinese community of Singapore, Kevin Kwan’s novel is both hilarious and highly entertaining. It offers a vivid portrayal of Singaporean life, from its exquisite cuisine to its rich cultural heritage.
Hidden Places by Sarah Baxter
Before finalising your bucket list, delve into this beautifully illustrated book. Sarah Baxter takes readers on a journey to some of the world's most enchanting hidden places. Discover underwater ruins in the Pacific, ancient Mayan tales deep in the jungle, and citadels accessible only by foot. Each location is depicted with a sense of wonder and adventure.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
One of the most widely read books of recent times, “The Alchemist” is a story about following one’s dreams. It chronicles the journey of a young shepherd boy from Spain to Egypt, as he pursues his heart’s desire. Along the way, he learns profound lessons about love and the meaning of life, leaving readers inspired by the many insightful quotes scattered throughout the narrative.
Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams
Mark Adams recounts his quest to retrace the steps of archaeologist Hiram Bingham in search of Inca ruins. This inspiring tale is brought to life with vivid descriptions and insightful observations. It highlights many lesser-known sites that ordinary tourists might miss, making it a valuable resource for anyone planning a trip to Peru.
Owls of the Eastern Ice by Jonathan C. Slaght
As the world becomes increasingly aware of the plight of endangered wildlife, this book is particularly poignant. Jonathan C. Slaght narrates his efforts to save the Blakiston’s fish owl from extinction in the remote regions bordering Russia, China, and North Korea. His tale is a compelling account of dedication and conservation in the face of daunting challenges.
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