Traveling to Paris is always a good idea. This was my fifth time and I am never disappointed to return. There are always new things to see and experience. I stayed in a quaint Airbnb in the Northeast quadrant of the city that came alive at night. The Para Olympic games were still taking place when I arrived, which added to the amazing energy all over.
When it started down pouring one morning I took to the Foundation Louis Vuitton to see the Ellsworth Kelly and Matisse art exhibitions. WOW. Incredible and moving works that I viewed for over three hours. Yeah, I am an art nerd! I then made my way to have lunch at Petit Palais. The little desert was a fig cake with a white chocolate fondant wrapping around it. Yum!
I enjoyed resting in the Louvre gardens, exploring the Royal Palace, along with stopping over at The Hoxton Hotel for a tasty orange spritz. Riding the subway made it easy to get around and when it was nice I enjoyed staying above ground to take in all the architecture!
Sketching in Jardins Grand Palace grounds was lovely. Sunsets were colorful and arches were found within pockets of the city. I actually was in this area back in 2004 with two girlfriends as we backpacked in Europe. So cool how nostalgia can transport you back in time like that!
One of my favorite places in Paris is to spend time in Montmartre. The Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre is a stunning landmark visible everywhere as it sits up upon a hill. I sat on a curb for over an hour putting pen to paper to capture this beautiful structure. Sketching this way is truly about getting the feeling down and not worrying about 'making mistakes.' I wanted to quit on this illustration so many times, but I didn't give up! Pain au chocolat (chocolate croissants) are also a must when in Paris. My favorite are from Boris Lume Boulangerie.
New spots like Cortado were fun to experience a taste of Spain, as they featured lots of dishes from there. Lady Eiffel had the Olympic rings still mounted. And the skies cleared to send me on my way to the next city!
Worth noting that I found myself enjoying while it rained:
Candle Kids Coffee- fun spot that does have a lot of candles
Kozy- love the food here
KB Cafe- cozy vibes for reading
Enjoy!
xoxo- Abigail