 By Eve Hartridge
Paris is one of the most vibrant and creative cities in the world- a paradise for lovers of art, culture, architecture, cuisine or those who are simply just lovers for we all know that Paris rates highly year after year on various surveys of the most romantic destinations. I amazed myself when I realised that the last time I visited Paris the Eiffel Tower was still counting down the days and hours until the new millennium. Despite Euro-star relocating to St Pancreas, Paris is still only an astonishing three hours from London so armed with a passport and a good book it does seem rude not to. Paris in the Spring-time is just lovely, not too hot or crowded, just right to sit outside a café without feeling too cold or get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the metro without feeling like a sardine in a sauna. The Parisian metro system is so simple to use and all of the city’s highlights can be explored this way and by foot over the course of a long weekend.
Where to Stay:
Many years ago I discovered the Melia Vendome Boutique Hotel on Rue Cambon, this hotel is centrally located ( between Opera and Place De Vendome on the Metro) and is very convenient for both The Louvre and Champs Elyesses. The Arc de Triomphe is a short walk as are the banks of the Seine for those keen on a Bateaux Mouches tour. The Eiffel Tower is also walk -able, if you’re keen. The Hotel has 83 well appointed rooms with a focus on casual luxury. The restaurant and bar offer a traditional French welcome, however the restaurant next door is extremely good and popular with residents. Melia Vendome Boutique is a perfect base for your trip, and female readers of my column might be interested to know that it is also located opposite the original Chanel Boutique, which is now the flagship store.
http://www.solmelia.com//hotels/france/paris/melia-vendome-boutique-hotel/home.htm/index.html
What to see:
There’s so much to see in Paris from the iconic landmarks to the artists in Monmarche to The Sacre Coeur, to Oscar Wilde’s grave. I have always loved The Louvre and am more than happy to spend a day exploring art through the ages, via the must see Mona Lisa. There is a current contemporary exhibition running in the Sully Wing of Jean- Philippe Toussaint for those interested in photography and digital art, but for traditionalists the recently resorted Saint Anne by Leonardo Da Vinci is on display once again under the glass Pyramid. There really is something for everyone in The Louvre.
Where to Eat:
The restaurant with the best view and arguably the best cuisine in Paris is Le Jules Verne, part of Michelen Chef, Alain Ducasse’s culinary empire. Located at the top of The Eiffel Tower, this is very much a once in a life time experience. Booking is essential and those with a fear of heights should prepare themselves for the journey to the top. Those with a fear of romance should also be prepared for a proposal a night is pretty much guaranteed.
http://www.lejulesverne-paris.com/
Follow our Regular Traveling Actuary Eve Hartridge @allaboutevie
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