Category Archives: travel

packing for paris

packing-for-paris-in-the-spring

 

It’s that time again…t-minus three days until I leave for Paris, and the suitcase is out! This time, however, I’m going to attempt to only use a carry-on…key word being attempt. I’m a chronic overpacker, so this will be a challenge (follow along on snapchat:hutchsusan if you wish…I’ll be sharing my packing process there, and it could get comical). While April in Paris is one of the most beautiful times of year there (or anywhere), it can also be the most fickle. One moment the sun is shining and the next, you’re ducking for cover in a passages. Layering is always a great idea when traveling, as are comfortable shoes. I tend to avoid trends and stick to the classics – you can’t go wrong. This is my fourth packing for paris guide…I’ve linked the previous ones below, along with all the details for these items. I think it goes without saying that this packing guide applies to many different locales…I hope you find it helpful. Happy travels et bon voyage!

my other packing for paris posts: one | two | three (kids version) 

cashmere sweater | white oxford | striped tee | wool hat | trench coat | denim shirt dress | black midi skirt | skinny jeans | bootcut jeans | leopard purse | sunglasses | scarf | expandable pliage | camera bag | nude flats | white sneakers | booties

centre pompidou with kids

centre-pompidou-paris

 

I just discovered it’s Museum Week, and what would you know, I had this post drafted and ready to go! After many years of visiting Paris, I finally made it to the Pompidou last spring. I was excited to experience it for the first time with my family, including my brother and his crew. A Parisian fixture since it’s opening in 1977, the Centre’s “inside out” architectural design makes it stand out in the area known as Beaubourg. The iconic vents are my favorite design element, juxtaposed with the classical facades behind them. It was a gorgeous day, as you can see with everyone lounging out front…I wouldn’t normally recommend a museum on a sunny day, but it made for incredible panoramic photos up top.

 

paris-with-kids-pompidou

 

The Pompidou is wonderful for kids of all ages, with wide open spaces both inside and out, focused exhibits, a cinema, and boutique. The first thing we did was head to the first level to check out the Galerie des Enfants. Dedicated to children, the space has ever-changing interactive exhibits for littles. Henry and Marie loved the “lift the world” exhibit, with many moving parts encouraging them to play and learn. Since they enjoyed it so much, we spent a good bit of time there, and added their names to the collection of wishes for peace and love around the world before heading to the top floor!

 

lifttheworldexhibit

pompidou-pour-enfants

henryandmarietags

 

Let me preface by saying that reaching the top was extra challenging for me, as I’m deathly afraid of both heights and open spaces. After ascending the glass elevator with the stroller (gulp), we made it to the (all glass, double gulp) walkway. While it’s only six floors up, the glass walls make you feel very exposed, and stimulate vertigo. I literally had a death grip on either my brother, my husband, or the stroller until we made it to the galleries. I wouldn’t recommend this for anyone with similar phobias, although the stunning views do help distract from the fear. While I may have had a minor panic attack while getting these shots, I still managed them. Facing your fears pays off, especially when in Paris!

 

pompidou-glass-walkway

views-from-pompidou

 

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to paris and beyond

statue-palais-royal

 

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel only read a page.”

Saint Augustine

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I’ve been keeping a secret from you. I recently found out that the conference I was scheduled to speak at was cancelled, and suddenly my Ireland plans seemed frivolous to me. While I will always have a strong desire to explore that country and my Irish roots, it felt a bit extravagant without a business-related purpose. If I’m going to be away from my family for a significant period of time, it needs to be meaningful and productive. I reached out to my friend and (then) Ireland travel partner Kirsten Alana with a bold idea – why don’t we go to Paris instead? She responded with a swift and resounding YES, and I did a happy dance. It’s been almost exactly a year since I was last there (avec ma famille) and I’m missing it greatly. I couldn’t wait to share my news with you this week, and then…the terrorist attacks in Brussels occurred.

While I’m feeling sorrowful and anxious, I will not be changing course. In fact, I feel more inspired to travel than ever before. I feel a responsibility as a human being, as a woman, and as a mother, to demonstrate courage and perseverance in the face of fear. I believe strongly in the sentiment above, and will forever encourage my children to see the world (I’m very proud that they’re already one passport stamp in at three years of age). The places and people I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing over the years have changed how I live my life. I’m a more tolerant, cultured, enlightened person. Sure, some of those things can come with age (I’m thirty-six)…but my travels have accelerated my maturity. I refuse to allow these horrific events to derail my dreams, my beliefs, and my desire to travel. Paris, mon amour…I’ll be seeing you soon.

image courtesy of ashley ludaescher photography

la droguerie du marais

rue-des-rosiers

 

The most amazing crêpes (and falafels) I’ve ever had in Paris (or anywhere) can be found on the lovely Rue des Rosiers. Situated in the 4th arrondissement, La Droguerie du Marais is a gem, with delicious sweet + savory options and service with a smile. There are a few stools inside should you wish to rest your weary feet, although you could always run to the nearby Place des Vosges to enjoy it with a view, or do what we did and not waste any precious time to dig in. Marie knows what’s up – she emerged from her cozy canopy to take a peek (she’s looking right at the facade). Clever + curious, that girl. A little sidenote: be sure not to confuse this with La Droguerie in the 1st, which is completely different but also amazing.

 

la-droguerie-du-marais

crepes-in-paris

crepe-making-paris

 

That man is the nicest crêpe-maker in Paris, I’m sure of it. I neglected to get his name, but I believe he is one of only two men you will find there, both being très gentille. I’ve always said I could survive solely on crêpes if necessary, and this place would make that a dream. After first making a meal of their amazing savory crepes, we ordered a few sweet ones. The kids really loved them, and we ended up with another round before leaving with big sugar and nutella-smudged smiles. Whether you’re just strolling by (pun intended) or intend to sit +  savor, this one is worth stopping for.

 

sharing-crepes

marie-eating-crepes

kid-friendly-crepes-paris

 

La Droguerie du Marais | 56 Rue des Rosiers 75004 Paris

ladurée with kids – nyc edition

laduree-soho-winter-garden

 

As I’ve said many times, I never miss an opportunity to go to Ladurée when in NYC. I most often find myself at the Soho location since it’s one of my favorite neighborhoods, and they have such ample, beautiful dining spaces. I couldn’t wait to give the kids another experience – having been fortunate enough to experience the flagship in Paris, they knew they were in for a treat. As soon as Henry + Marie heard the words Ladurée + macarons, they were giddy with anticipation (as was I, bien sur). I was equally thrilled to dine in the (recently) winterized outdoor garden, flooded with natural light….the kind that photographers dream of and seek out, especially in this often dreary season. I got a bit snap happy, it was so dreamy!

 

laduree-with-kids

laduree-crayons

marie-coloring

 

I’m such a sucker for anything with a Ladurée logo on it, and we were all pretty excited about these exclusive little coloring books + crayons. It really helped keep the kids entertained while waiting for our tea + treats, which in turn makes for a more enjoyable time for mommy + daddy! We ordered tea for us (marie antoinette pour moi, melange for my mr. fleurishing), hot chocolate for the kids, and of course, macarons. We were pleasantly surprised when we also received their latest pastry creation, the honey tart. It’s a limited edition treat that certainly gets you in the mood for spring.

 

laduree-tablescape

laduree-honey-tart

 

I must admit that even though Marie was born an old soul, she still shocks us at times with her maturity and grace. She was very excited to use a big girl teacup, and while we were a bit apprehensive about it (hello potential hot chocolate disaster), she handled it like a pro. Henry was more interested in the macarons of course, especially his precious green pistachio ones (as evidenced below and in this video). Many thanks to Ladurée for having us, we had such a lovely time!

 

marie-with-hot-chocolate

marie-drinking

henry-with-macaron

 

this post is sponsored by ladurée…as always, all words + opinions are my own.