Upon our return to Paris, we checked in to the Bristol Hotel. I have always loved this hotel, occasionally stopping in for a cocktail or lunch when I was a student at Christie's just up the street. This was the first time I stayed as a guest and it was fabulous. As we received the keys to our room, ...
Travel
L’Orangerie at Chateau d’Etoges
That night, after touring the countryside, we headed to the restored Orangerie for dinner. I cannot tell you how nice it was to stroll across the grounds at dusk to the understated, yet extremely elegant dining room. Everything from the gentle flames of the fire, to the warm greeting at the door and ...
Château d’Etoges
It's been a few years since my last trip to the country. Now that I am here, I think I should do it more often. The experience provides so many opportunities that don't exist in Paris, as well as a real sense of "getting away from it all." For me, a huge part of the experience depends on my ...
La Route du Champagne
After a busy weekend in the city, what could be nicer than a few relaxing days in the country?
So, I headed toward Epernay. Only a couple of hours east of Paris, the Champagne region is wonderful for tourists and wine lovers alike. The grape harvest usually takes place in early to mid September ...
Le Chardenoux
I absolutely love Sundays in Paris, especially when they are calm, quiet and slow. This past Sunday was such a day - mass at Notre Dame followed by a relaxing mid-day lunch at one of the best bistros in Paris.
I read about Le Chardenoux on one of my favorite French food blogs Paris by Mouth. It ...
Paris Pratique – Ordering coffee in France
I had always thought the variety of coffee drinks in France was driven by taste – if you like cream in your coffee order a café crème. If you don’t like cream or milk, order an espresso. It’s that simple, n’est-ce pas?
No, it is not that simple. Like many French habits, it’s a bit more ...
