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Personally I love a mixture of everything but my favourite thing to do when travelling is exploring the city on foot and getting lost in little pockets where the locals are. Especially in Paris you see so much when exploring the little alleyways and stepping away from the big tourist hotspots. To me nothing beats an early morning of wandering the streets as the city wakes up with a coffee in hand.
Who: 47-year-old Lucille, her husband and teenage daughter.
Where: Paris, France
How long: Two trips, a couple of weeks overall.
What do you value most when travelling?
Hidden gems or recommendations?
Hôtel des Invalides: This museum isn't often talked about however its definitely one worth putting on your list. It takes you through the cities rich history and its such a insightful experience.
For something special: Have a drink at the Ritz. It will be the most expensive drink of your life but very well worth it! The attention to detail is amazing and every lady gets a rose with their drink, you can walk out with a bouquet.
For people watching and amazing food: Café des officers! They have the most amazing French onion soup and it's the perfect place to cosy up and people-watch for hours.
For a sweet treat or the prettiest breakfast: Ladurée (my favourite is the one on the Champs Elysées) It will be the prettiest cup of tea of your life.
Any tips from the locals?
The best thing we were told is to go the Trocadero outlook from 8pm to 1am to see the Eiffel Tower light show! It happens in the first five minutes of every hour and its such a special thing to witness.
Things you wish you knew before visiting?
To do your research on which arrondissement you want to stay in (which area)! Paris is such a large city so if there are certain things you want to see or experience more of I would definitely recommend having look at which arrondissement would suit you best. The Trocadero district located in the 16th Arrondissement is popular and for good reason, it's within walking distance to the best Eiffel Tower view in the city and the Champs Elysees.
Did your city have any seasonal events/markets?
Absolutely. They have lots of little local farmers markets down the streets on the weekends. You'll often find them just by stumbling upon them but its a great way to experience life as a local and pick up some goodies for your stay. We went to the Rue Mouffetard Market Street in the 5th Arrondissement which has Nutella Crepes, organic produce and an array of multi-cultural food stalls. It's also open every day except Mondays from 8am-1pm, so plenty of opportunity to visit.
What about the city makes you want to go again?
There is so much to explore in Paris and so many areas to wander through! On my next trip I would love to check out the clothing and furniture flea markets (like Marché aux puces de la Porte de Vanves) based on the outer arrondissements, I've heard amazing things!
