Midnight in Paris

Ah, Paris. I have been in love with Paris and everything French for as long as I can remember. When I was nine, I went to Paris and all over western France. I wish I could remember it more, but alas, that just means I must go back in the near future. Maybe my love for Paris really started when Carrie Bradshaw from Sex in the City moved to Paris. Who knows.

Paris thrives on food, wine, fashion, and music. It is filled with art and history. Completely majestic.

Paris is the capital city and most populous metropolitan area of the French Republic. It is situated on the River Seine, in the north of the country. Centuries on cultural and political development have brought Paris a variety of museums, theatres, monuments and architectural styles. Masterpieces such as the Louvre and Arc de Triomphe are iconic buildings, especially the internationally recognized symbol, the Eiffel Tower.

Paris is renowned for its haute cuisine, food meticulously prepared and presented, often accompanied by fine wines. Paris is number two of cities of culinary finesse as of this year, following closely behind Tokyo. As of 2013, Paris has ten 3-Michelin-star restaurants, the most coveted award in the restaurant business; these include Ducasse's Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, Alain Passards's L'Arpége, Yannick Alleno's Le Meurice in the Hôtel Meurice and Eric Frechon's restaurant at the Hotel le Bristol.

Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée

L'Arpége

 Le Meurice

Granted, these restaurants are pricey. Let's say you are on a budget. What are some other places to enjoy French cuisine, but without breaking the bank?

L'Ambassade d'Auvergne in Paris is wonderful. A very traditional rustic tavern like restaurant. You enter through the bar which has heavy oak beams, hanging hams, and ceramic plates. It is very homey and showcases the culinary bounty of France's most isolated regions. Try the pork braised with cabbage, turnips, and white beans! The rack of lamb isn't too bad either!

One of my fondest memories of traveling through Paris was eating a little hole in the wall restaurants and cafes. They are wonderful and each one is different from the last. Gorge yourself on French bread and red wine. Heck, the Parisians do it, why can't you! 

If you feel like traveling a little outside Paris for great food try The Breton Island of Ouessant. There you will find the best creperie in all of France. It is called Creperie Ti a Dreuz.

A trip to Paris is not complete without a trip to Angelina's for macaroons, sweets, and coffees!

Paris is the global hub of fashion and has been referred to as the "international capital of style" It ranks alongside Milan, New York, and London. Paris is noted to use high quality, expensive fabric with intricate details. Fashion week in Paris is hosted twice a year and is one of the most important events in the fashion industry. Paris has a large number of high-end fashion boutiques with flagship stores for designers such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Christian Dior. Better start saving!

The MOST important thing to remember: Have fun! Also, BE ADVENTUROUS! See all that Paris has to offer!