Article by Lady T
In Love with Paris
It has been said that it is only when we are lost that we begin to understand ourselves (Henry David Thoreu) and sometimes we need a little time alone in a new setting to allow ourselves to be captivated by history, culture, fine cuisine or shopping.
Novelist Thérèse, was so enlightened by time spent in Paris that she was inspired to write her latest novel, Letter from Paris, a witty and glamorous account of a trip to the city of light and romance.
“Travelling alone can be daunting, the idea of stepping off the plane into the unknown without a companion can seem alien– but believe me it can be one of the most liberating things you’ll do. Sitting in a café with a crisp glass of wine, a good book to read and the delights of watching the world go by- is bliss and something you don’t appreciate until you try – after all, there’s always the possibility of a handsome stranger or old friend to entertain you if you’re desperate for a little conversation.”
5 essential tips for lone travelers in Paris:
- Look up old friends and business contacts through online channels and let them know of your impending arrival. Don’t be too rigid with your plans as it could impinge on exciting opportunities to meet people and practice your French.
- Enjoy a glass of Sancerre before you set out for the evening, it will relax and reinvigorate you.
- Stay in a boutique hotel, the setting is almost guaranteed to be unique and charming. Often, boutique hotel bars are exclusive and intimate allowing you to meet like-minded guests travelling alone
- Buy a beautiful journal and note down your thoughts and musings; this will allow you to reflect on your time when and more importantly ‘if’ you decide to head home…
- Follow the footsteps of your favorite author / character from a book set in the city you are visiting, as well as providing inspiration for the book in you, you see the city in a different light. I followed Ines de la Fressange’s guide book Parisian Chic and every day felt like an adventure.
Thérèse shares her own treasured things to do in her much -loved Paris:
- Visit a traditional perfumer and take time to indulge your senses. Are you suited to rich and enigmatic spicy collections or luxurious and seductive florals?
- Seize the day and breakfast with the locals, from pancakes and Breton pastries to oeufs en cocotte.
- Choose an outside table to enjoy a glass of wine any time after lunch.
- Browse and invest in good quality French linens to last a lifetime.
- Light a candle in the Sacré-Cœur, religious or not, the Basilica provides a magnificent setting to have some quiet time to reflect.
Read more about Thérèse’s adventures at www.thereseblogs and pick up her latest novel ‘Letter from Paris’, published by The Story Plant and available from Amazon $11.71, as well as Kindle.
Ceri Wheeldon
Ceri is Founder and Editor of Fabafterfifty.co.uk She is a frequent speaker at events and in the media on topics related to women over 50 , including style and living agelessly. With 20+ years experience as a headhunter Ceri also now helps support those looking to extend their working lives.
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