Things to Pack and Know \\ Paris No.1

“Because you look around and every street, every boulevard, is its own special art form” – Midnight in Paris.

As I sit here at Starbucks in Bexley, sitting outside in the cool fall weather I feel like this is the perfect place to write and reminisce about our recent trip to Paris and London.  Our goal for this trip was simple; enjoy each other, art, time and culture. I feel confident we succeeded!

So I have decided to share some thoughts, stories and images with all of you. If you are or have ever considered visiting Paris here are somethings we learned from our experience. I will begin with “things to pack” and some helpful “things to know.” Later I will post about some of the places we visited, but all posts will include some wonderful images captured by my handsome personal photographer (be sure to always travel with one).

Let’s start with what to pack. This isn’t a long list but some staples and items I am very glad we had.

First, his and hers comfortable and stylish shoes. We walked A LOT in Paris, and intended to. Paris is a beautiful city to walk thru. But we also tried to not put on our nikes and fanny packs but rather blend into the style and ambiance of such a city. Benjamin and I both found our Cole Haan shoes with the nike air technology (still fit in that comfort) to be the perfect fit. Cute, comfy and took us miles and miles every day! Secondly, a good carry all bag. I love this Madewell tote. My large catch all for plane, train or walking around the city. Pack light though, with all walking and metros you won’t want to have a bag that weighs you down or gives pick pocketers anything to accessible or interesting. In your bag be sure to have a pocket travel guide or at the very least a small map of the metro and city. We found Rick Steve’s pocket guide for both Paris and London (and the maps) to be very useful. With all the walking and yes all the eating (crepes, croissants, macrons and more) we used Benjamin’s Jawbone Up to track our steps and activity. And lastly, I recommend layers. While in both Paris and London we experienced a heat wave of sorts. Most days it reached 80, however some days and nights were much cooler. My Zara leather jacket was the perfect piece to layer with any dress, jeans or top. One jacket for all my outfits, less to pack and easy to wear.  (BTW my shoes are on sale!)

I might also mention that packing camera equipment is quite the conversation in our house. Benjamin made some great decisions with his trusty Polariod 350 and no longer in production FP-3000B film. We love all the polariod memories and tried to take at least one everywhere we went. On some we quickly jotted down a word, memories or quote from the moment. Something we will cherish. In addition to his Hasselblad, Benjj brought his Fuji xPro 1 with 2 lens (23 mm & 56 mm) this will mean more to your camera nerds enthusiast out there.

My last “packing” recommendation. A fabulous travel companion. Insert Benjamin James Derkin.

Not only is he great to look at and my personal photographer, he is kind, patience and loving. An adventurer, more patient with tourists than I was, and able to order confidently in french (or a good french accent). Benjamin made my heart full! I was blessed to be traveling with him.

Let’s move to things to know!

1. There are wonderful boulangeries nearly everywhere. We had several right down the street where we stayed. What you need to know is most bakeries will make fresh baguettes and croissants three times a day (Open, noon and 5 PM). Try something new every day!

2. Airbnb is a great way to go! We found a beautiful 200 year old apartment in Le Marias. Renovated in 2013 by an architect, our space, was stylish, comfy, clean and had a small kitchen that we used to make some breakfasts and dinners. It was beautiful and affordable. Our host was very helpful and we HIGHLY recommend him and the location.

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3. Cafes: They are everywhere. We sometimes wondered if Parisians do anything other than have great, spirited conversations in cafes. Be sure to stop for some espresso, wine, a salad or fries! They are all wonderful, stop at whatever one catches your eye, they truly are on every street. Be sure to sit outside along the street, read, chat, write or people watch. The perfect place any time of the day or night.

4. Bottled water, whether mineral or sparkling, it is the same price as wine. So you choose :) Also, we drank tap water and were just fine. So bring a water bottle to refill or request tap water at restaurants. Save yourself 7 euros to spend elsewhere!

4. Though some streets can be narrow, and some signs confusing, there are a few simple things to know about transportation. Walking is easy, free and enjoyable. The Metro M1 line runs along the north side of the river and can take you from the Bastille, Notre Dame, Louvre, Champs Elyees to the Arc de Triomphe.

5. Be sure to have cash. Most places are cash only and the metro requires a European credit card or cash. (Though I hear some new cards in the US now include the proper chip). And be prepared to carry coins.

6. Paris is FULL of tourists. Though technically, we too were tourists, we tried not to behave as most. Be prepared for long lines and crowded spaces if you want to see some of the iconic sites.

7. Learn to speak a little French and then muster up the courage to use it! We found that Parisians were welcoming and warm and though most speak some English, making the attempt in French is respectful and fun!

Look for more tomorrow!

xoxo,

Jennifer