I'm Susan — devout Francophile, mother of twins, writer, creative director, and aspiring author. I've been sharing my life here since 2010...thanks for reading!
My favorite monument…up close and personal. I could walk around it for hours, studying each and every relief. My favorite one, pictured above, features Napoleon, crowned by the goddess of Victory. The neoclassical masterpiece was constructed over thirty years, and inaugurated in 1836. I love it for many reasons…the architecture, the grandeur, the location, and one of the best views in Paris! It is a must-see, much more so than the lovely lady Eiffel.
If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you most likely know I’m a big fan of anything Nichole + Evan Robertson do. I first discovered their talents via the blogosphere, back when Nichole was known as “Little Brown Pen“, and we developed an online friendship. Fast forward a few years, and the husband and wife team have combined their talents into the studio and blog, Obvious State. As a devout francophile, I’ve devoured just about everything they’ve put their minds to, mainly, their photography, stories, and illustrations. Their latest endeavor, The Paris Journal, takes you on both a narrative and visual journey through Paris–it’s amazing. You can pre-order a signed copy of the printed book here, and the e-book becomes available tomorrow. If you need a francophile fix immediately, click here for a sneak peek!
Deciding to stay in an apartment vs. a hotel was an easy decision for me–I wanted to live like a local. Having learned of Haven in Paris many years ago, I instantly began browsing their rentals after securing my flights. I really wanted a place that was central, had character, and was situated in a residential area. I fell in love with this chic and cozy little apartment in the Marais, beautifully decorated and loaded with amenities. Upon arrival a lovely greeter ran through all the practical points, shared a few local tips, and handed me the keys! That was a true pinch me moment, as I’ve always dreamed of living in Paris. Staying in an apartment is one way to make that dream a reality, even if only for a week!
Having a kitchen (and a stocked one at that) is a major perk of renting, and although I mostly ate out (hello Paris), I made the most of the french press in the mornings, with the bells of the nearby St. Gervais Church bringing me much joy. With so many comforts of home (washer/dryer, laptop, fluffy feather bed), I felt at ease, even on my own. Having never traveled alone internationally before, that feeling was very freeing, and empowering. In the evenings I would catch up with social media, fine tune my plans for the next day, and most importantly…FaceTime with my family. My apartment truly was a haven, and I’m so grateful for the experience. It was unlike any I’ve had before, in the best way!
If you’re the type of traveler who wants to be immersed in the culture, I highly recommend renting. Even if it’s a bit out of your comfort zone, I promise you the experience will enrich your journey. The team of Haven in Paris was so attentive throughout the entire process, from booking to my return home, and the service they provided exceeded my expectations. When we travel internationally as a family, we will definitely be renting (already eyeing all of their family friendly apartments)! Visit the Haven in Paris site to see all of their listings + their blog for great tips inspiration for your travels!
*this post is sponsored by Haven in Paris…all words and opinions are my own*
*images via Haven in Paris and myself*
Having heard many great things about the hot breakfast spot Claus, I couldn’t wait to experience it for myself. Located just around the corner from Palais Royal, it was the perfect place to begin my first full day in Paris. I met Lindsey there just as they opened…we had made a reservation, which I highly recommend. My mouth started watering upon entering, faced with a wall of pastries and goodies. We were ushered to the sun-filled dining room upstairs and got the choice window spot, score! I had to pause and get some shots of the interior…the mix of color and modern simplicity was so refreshing. The menu had a plethora of excellent options – I opted for the muesli + soft boiled egg, my new favorite (check out that adorable egg warmer…they sell them)! The coffee was delicious, supplied by none other than the renowned Coutume Café. It was such an enjoyable morning, and I’m happy to report Claus lived up to the hype!
Claus | 14 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau 75001 Paris
a few #fleurishinginfrance favorites
france bound…mon frére…les poules…french country dream
orleans at night…chambord…a new favorite…paris pinch me moment
spiral…classic paris…needs no explanation…merci shop
treats…macaron heaven…atop the arc…magical
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