A Girl's Guide To Paris

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Paris, France is one of the most magical cities that we've fallen in love with. The language, the culture, the buildings, the people--it's all so mesmerizing. Many of our sorority sisters had the privilege of studying abroad in Europe and Paris was one of their favorite destinations. After hearing all of the hype, Co Founder Karen finally made her way over to Paris last October and it was love at first sight. Since Paris is on our honeymoon and bucket list, we asked Karen to share with us a must-see list of things to do and see while in Paris. Check out her recommendations below! Have any suggestions? Share with us in the comments!

L A N D M A R K S

Well, first things first: visit the Eiffel Tower (duh!). If you have time, actually go to the top of it and admire the amazing view. At night, the Eiffel Tower lights up too so it's definitely a cool site to see. The Grande Arche de la Défense, which is at the business neighborhood of La Défense, is a tourist must-see. It gives you a great view of the Arc de Triomphe in front of you. Going to the Arc de Triomphe you will be able to see and shop on the Champs-Élysées. Trocadéro is where you can take a great picture and have a great view of the Eiffel Tower while witnessing the beautiful golden column. Le Champ de Mars is a large public green space near the Eiffel Tower as well and is great for a picnic. Le Quai d'Orsay is also a touristy place and if you feel naughty as my friend would say, the Moulin Rouge is pretty cool. Versailles (also known as The Palace of Versailles) is a must-see piece of historical architecture. The Locks of Love bridge is fun to go to (bring a lock!). Consider even doing a boat cruise on the Seine River!

S H O P P I N G

Châtelet Les Halles is where you can do some affordable shopping. If you're into high-end fashion then visiting the Louis Vuitton store on the Champs-Élysées is a must. Add visiting the Christian Louboutin store and the Chanel store to your list. If you get to the Chanel store in time, ask for a tour of Chanel's old flat which is around the corner from the store (keep in mind, it's likely they won't allow you to take pictures in the store).

M U S E U M S  A N D  C H U R C H E S

You could spend an entire day at the The Musée du Louvre (a museum), but prepare to wait in a long line. Another notable place to go to is Notre Dame Church. It is the church inspired from the Bossu de Notre Dame book. Though the line to get in was long, it was worth the wait. Montmartre has great cafes to chill after visiting the Sacré-Couer church (a popular Roman Catholic church). 

R E S T A U R A N T S  A N D  C A F E S

You can't go to Paris, France without munching on some macaroons. Ladurée on Champs-Élysées is the place to go for some yummy macarons. Wine, cheese, croissants, frites, crepes and baguettes should be on your radar since France is known for these tasty delights. Here are a list of some more places to dine at:

• L'Avenue (good breakfast)
• Moutarde Street-Opéra (American style food)
• Rose Bakery (breakfast, brunch, coffee & tea--plenty of options for vegans and vegetarians)
• La Bulle (upscale French bistro)
• Bar à Gaufres (sweet and savory waffles that are gluten-free)
• Le Market (The menu is a mix of Asian/Japanese with more traditional French dishes)
• Breizh Café, Little Breizh, and Creperie Framboise (delicious crepes)
• Café Latéral (good for lunch near Arc de Triomphe)
• Angelina (pricey, but iconic restaurant)
• Académie de la Bière (awesome Roquefort mussels and frites (fries)!)

N I G H T L I F E
 If you want to hang out at night the party place to find bars and night clubs is de la Bastille. It is the spot to be with a young crowd. Try Rue de Lappe which is located in the heart of the Bastille just between Rue de la Roquette and Rue de Charonne. Rue de Lappe offers dozens of bars and restaurants that attract just about everyone from locals to visitors.

When in doubt, just consult your concierge at your hotel or do some Googling to find the best places to wander to in Paris. Paris cannot be conquered in a day (although you can try!) so take your time and live in the moment.

Au revoir!