Travel notes from the real France. Carnet de Voyage is a weekly personal travel story in France sent in by readers. If you’d like to write a story for Carnet de Voyage, head here for details on how to submit.
Paris Beckons. Being a flaneur is strolling the streets of Paris. Meandering the different arrondisements with a vitality and interest for another adventure! I love the neighborhood called Le Marais. With its unique boutiques on each street. Stopping at a café for an espresso and my favorite pains au chocolat is a perfect way to relax. Each visit to Paris allows me to reacquaint myself with my favorite ice cream shop, café and bistros.
Benoit, a wonderful restaurant prides itself in exquisite cuisine. When ordering pâté, you are also brought a warm brioche. Elegant service at each visit. At the end of a perfectly prepared dinner, you are brought warm madeleines. A classic French cookie. Unique to Benoit. I was invited into their kitchen to meet the chef and given a signed menu. Meandering from Hotel du Aubusson is a delightful way to end a day.
On a special Easter Sunday, I strolled near the banks of the Seine to Notre Dame Cathedral. As I listened to the words from the ‘pulpit’ and heard familiar hymns, I was overjoyed with the warm welcome I felt from the congregation. The love from visitors as we turned towards each other for a kiss on the cheek or a smile.
That feeling was louder than the spoken word. From scripture, ‘Love Reflects Love’ is how I felt.
While in the 1st arrondisement I visited the Sainte Chapelle and listen to a string ensemble performing Vivaldi. Being in such a beautiful historic Cathedral brings great joy!
To experience life as a Parisian is beautiful. It is enjoying the simple things of life. Joie de Vivre. Watching families and friends in Luxembourg Gardens is how I spend my Sunday in Paris. I am in ‘awe’ of the genuine feeling watching ‘happiness in action’!
The vibrance I feel with each visit to Paris never leaves me. It continues and is ‘rekindled’ each time I return.
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