Found: We’ll Always Have Paris.

I know I’ve been going on about my trip to Rome, but today, I’m giving equal time to Paris. I have a love affair with both cities and honestly, I’ve been in such an excited state of mind about traveling to Italy that I’ve felt a bit guilty—like I’ve been cheating on my best friend, France. But I’ve been getting numerous requests lately on where to stay, shop, and eat in Paris; I thought I’d give a condensed recap for all of you wondering what I love about Paris. Both destinations have their own unique charms, of course, but for a classic European getaway, you really can’t go wrong with the City of Light. I think of France as slightly more ‘proper,’ i.e., sipping champagne, while Italy is a little more ‘let loose,’ where we can swirl and perhaps slurp our spaghetti if we want to. The best thing for me, anyway, is to wander around Paris like a local and just see what you see. I know there are many museums and sites to see, but today, we’re focusing on eating, shopping, and sleeping over.

Shopping Paris Vintage & New.

Paris is rather known for its unparalleled shopping, so it’s difficult to land on just a few of my favorites, but here you are. These are the spots I never miss when visiting Paris. Brocante rue de Bretagne Paris is only held a couple of times a year and is an amazing vintage street market, so perhaps try and plan your trip around their bi-annual events. And I never miss a few strolls down Rue Montorgueil for all their unique Parisian food shops—literally the butcher, the baker, and the candlestick maker. Sit and have an aperitif and frites at one of the many outdoor cafes and watch the local Parisians go by. For more shopping tips, check out these posts on Paris boutiques and where to shop vintage. You should also follow @lindseytramuta and check out her book, The New Paris, and @evajorgensentravel and her book, Paris By Design. Both authors are always up on the latest Paris news and have excellent recommendations.