Like so many of the lovely things in life (the little black dress, confetti, macarons, ballet, and so much more …), the carousel originated in Paris.   Rewind to the jousting tournaments of medieval times, knight games that were in part inspired by the myth of Sir Lancelot — that passionate lover, brave fighter and all-round dreamboat. Lancelot […]

Continue Reading

Chai lovers, rejoice: Parisian baristas have come around to the seductiveness of creamy, spicy chai. You might not yet find it in every corner café, but the specialist spots that brew chai do it so well that a trek will be well rewarded. Five to try:  Café Loustic, 40 Rue Chapon 75003  The fabulously tall glass of day-fuelling chai comes in a choice of milks; the oat is magnifique.   Café Kitsune, […]

Continue Reading

Shakespeare and Company   The iconic store has been nestled into this prime position (with its pinch-yourself view of Notre-Dame) since 1951, and a pilgrimage-like destination for lovers of literature, including lauded authors and misty-eyed writers-to-be. (Originally Le Mistral, the shop was reborn after Sylvia Beach gifted founder George Whitman the name of her own legendary bookstore, which had welcomed the likes of Ernest Hemingway back in the 1920s). […]

Continue Reading