New Year Resolution

As always advised, the list of resolutions should be kept as short as possible, so that it is achievable. We’re already 4 days into the new year, and I am still unable to start putting some of these resolutions into action, because there’re so much things spilled over from last year to be settled.

Nonetheless, I’ll have no more excuse by Feb (gosh, one month wasted!) to put my acts together :)

Goal # 1: Self-Improvement and Self-Renewal…

… by reading at least 50 books by the end of the year, and doing more travels to widen my horizons. Textbooks and any other professional development stuff are not counted :) 50 books may sound unambitious to some, but it may prove to be challenging if one were to take into account my busy work-study-cook-clean lifestyle. Travelling is by no means a luxury, or a flaunt of wealth to me. Those who think so, do not even know me, and I think you’re poor in spirits, and downright shallow.

Goal # 2: Healthy Lifestyle

Healthy lifestyle is the key to looking and feeling good. So, I really need to work on my diet- lots of water, fruits, leafy greens, and cut down on the sweets. I realise that I love caffeine too much. On top of that undying love, I need caffeine as a life-saver! So I’ll need to sweat out the toxics through good exercises, right? Hopefully with a good dietary intake of iron, I would feel less tired, and thus less reliance on caffeine. And of course, a good workout is said to help boost energy level. So there we go!

Goal # 3: Maintain good financial health

I’ve been doing okie with my finances, although I do admit that I’m sometimes guilty of my hedonistic spending habits. That doesnt mean that I’d totally give up my love for occasional indulgence eg. building a fabulous wardrobe, haha! But I’d probably have to make sure that I’m well ahead of my target savings plan before using the extra cash to indulge myself.

 

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I’ve finally discovered that WordPress has got its built-in email subscription for blogs.

If you love my blog and would like to get the latest entries delivered to your mailbox, enter your email address in the right-hand panel =) Thank you for reading!

 

A long and amazing day in Paris

I spent a long and amazing Saturday, checking out two different flea markets, experiencing pure culinary delights at Le Soleil, taking a 3-hour walk through 17th Arrondissement, and visiting Montmarte.

Flea Markets

It would have been really difficult for me to write much more about the Porte Clignancourt markets, as I didnt really get the chance to check them out properly. It was massive and very crowded. There were touts who greeted me in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean everywhere. Yes, I was mildly impressed by their linguistic capability. And yes, they frighten me a bit. Friend and I came to discover that was just one component of the flea markets. Away from these open-air markets, were numerous tiny lanes leading to quaint antiques and furnitures shops. Just as per my internet research, one needs to know what to buy, before heading out to Porte Clignancourt. This is because, apart from antiques and furnitures, one is supposed to find vintage clothings, and many other treasures. It was indeed a fun place to get lost in, if one has got the luxury of time.

Fortunately, I was able to pick up interesting stuff from the temporary flea market at La Motte Picquet, earlier that morning. In fact, the visit to the flea market at La Motte Picquet was unplanned. Part of the reason why we didnt have enough time for Porte Clignancourt was because we spent way too much time there. I’m not really complaining though. Especially when I was able to shop more comfortably at La Motte Picquet, without being disturbed by touts.

La Motte Picquet temporary flea market

Delightful finds! A vintage Elle Magazine from 1956, and a set of old Kookai postcards.

The St-Ouen-Porte de Clignancourt flea market (Marché aux Puces), opens Saturday to Sunday, from 0900 to 1800. Nearest metro is Porte de Clignancourt, on line 4. As mentioned, it is best to research on what you’re looking for, and where exactly to find them at the markets, before you leave home. It is impossible to cover the entire place in just one day, especially if you’re the type of shopper who tend to spend one or two hours at just one shop.

 

Paris Greeters and 17th Arrondissement

Remember my mention of Paris Greeters, in a seperate entry, not too long ago? In this entry, I’ll take you on a narrative walk with me, as I try to put all the details I could remember together.

I have to apologise in advance that there really aren’t too many photos to share, as I was really caught up in the conversation with my guide.

Our meeting point was outside a restaurant at Place de Clichy, a strategic intersection of 8, 9, 17, and 18 Arrt (Arrondissement). I remembered vividly how it drizzled that day, and how my feet hurt from trekking around the Porte Clignancourt flea market. I was apologetically late for the meeting, but Fabienne still greeted me cheerfully with a bright and genuine smile.

Fabienne was to take us through the neighbourhoods on the 17th arrondissement. I was really thrilled to discover the off-beaten paths of Paris. It turned out that this district has quite a heterogeneous population- the rich, the young and trendy, and the working class, occupying different parts of the district. It is also a district where one can marvel at the many fine old Haussmanian style and art-deco residential buildings. Of notesworthy is the fact that, Paris is pretty different from other parts of France, in terms of housing. Almost everyone lives in an apartment. In fact, it has been mentioned that stand-alone houses only take up 1% of the housing market in Paris.

Cites des Fleurs, an exclusive neighbourhood, where a new occupant needs to seek the common consensus of all other existing occupants, before he/she is allowed to purchase the place, and live there. I do think that it’s an absolute measure to preserve the character of a place.

She then walked us through Marché des Batignolles, a market which is pretty similar to Rue Cler. Besides food, there were a couple other shops that sell clothing and other specialty items. Then we came to Square des Batignolles, the largest green park in 17th Arrt, set in English-style.

A view of haussmanian style building from Square des Batignolles

Moving on, we were shown where the development and construction of  the “Olympic Village” should have been. There were great plans to develop this area, but it was unfortunate that Paris lost her hosting rights for 2012 Olympics to London. I couldnt recall exactly what the alternative plans are. We’ll see, as time pass =)

Another interesting sight from the walk was clock tower of the Church of Saint Michel des Batignolles, on Passage St Michel. Atop the clock tower, stands a shiny golden statue of Saint Michel. The same statue could be found on Abbaye du Mont Saint Michel in Normandy (France). Another mental note that I need to visit this wonder of the medival world, when I have the chance.

Fabienne also pointed out a shop where famous impressionist artists, including Monet, used to get their painting supplies, and it was surprisingly still around after so many years! Another thing worth mentioning is that, Quartier des Batignolles on the 17th Arrt was a cultural area, where many notable artists used to live (due to cheap rents).

The walk in the 17th Arrt provided a refreshing angle for me to see real Parisians in real neighbourhoods. It’s true that 17th Arrt has no world-famous spots to boast about, but the charm that lingers in this untouched neighbourhood touches me. As this area is close by to Montmarte and Moulin Rouge, I’d recommend at least a quick hop-over to the 17th Arrt to check out it’s local-accented cafes or restaurants, without paying tourist-prices at similar places at Montmarte. I have yet to try them myself, but would definitely love to.

Walking tours need to be pre-booked, preferably a few weeks in advance. Because the tour relies on volunteers, do note that they’re not guranteed. As courtesy, I’d also strongly discourage last minute cancellations (just because you want to spend more time at Louis Vuitton boutique, or checking out sales racks at Les Soldes). I’d hate to see Paris Greeters getting dissolved because of such logistics problems from inconsiderate visitors.

 

Montmarte

Due to the proximity to 17th Arrt, friend and I decided to squeeze a whirlwind tour of Montmarte, primarily to check out Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Paris (Basilique du Sacré-Cœur). It could have been very possible that the landmark’s prominence with tourists is associated with its vantage location on the highest point of Paris.

The basilica was built of travertine stone quarried in Château-Landon (Seine-et-Marne), with Romano-Byzantine features. Symbols of nationalism are depicted on the basilica. For example, the two equestrain statues represent Joan of Arc and King Saint Louis IX, both regarded as national saints of France.

I did not get the chance to visit the entire basilica’s complex, which was said to include a beautiful garden and a dome that allows a paranomic view looking out, over Paris. The interior of the basilica was serene, and breathtakingly beautiful. There was a service taking place when I visited that saturday evening. The whole chapel was filled with sweet melody of the choir, accompanied by soothing music from the organ. Candles lined both sides of the chapel, giving it a very surreal, but yet comforting serenity that I have never felt before. As this is a religious site, do respect the prohibitive signs- photography is not allowed.

The furnicular that transport you up to the basilica, with the cost of one metro ticket (Zone 1). You may find it an unnecessary waste of money, if you’re fit enough for the stairs.

The vantage point of the basilica, with a sweeping view over Paris

We had dinner at the “Artist’s Village” where one could find the touristy glory of souvenir shops, restaurants and bars… But that was not all. A few artists set up makeshift space, and offer to paint a life portrait of curious tourists (at a price of course). Nonetheless, it was an interesting sight.

I really couldn’t resist more shots of the basilica, by night!

To see Montmarte, and learn more about the culture and history behind it, you may wish to check out City Free Tour. It is another interesting free walking tour that takes place every Saturday and Sunday. I have not tried it personally, but do check out the reviews on Tripadvisor. 

As you’ve figured, I’ve really done too much in one day! All of the mentioned places could be covered over 2-3 days, if you’d prefer to be thorough. Personally, I hate the feeling of missing out on places, by being “so-near-yet-so-far”. Travelling is a great way to relax the mind. It is only when the mind is set in a relaxed state, that we, as travellers can start to truly see and open up to the culture and way of life.

I hope my posts aren’t getting too draggy. More to update tommorrow!

 

Château de Versailles

About Chateau de Versailles

The royal chateau was built in Versailles, the Ill-de-France region. Versailles was interestingly the de facto capital of France from 1682 to 1789. For politcal reasons, King Louis XIV decided to move his court and government from Paris to Versailles. The chateau was officially established on 6 May 1982, and from there, it was expanded, modified, and renovated over decades to become one of the largest palaces in the world.

In 1789, as a result of the Women’s March on Versailles (one of the upheavals during French Revolution), the royal family had to accede to the demand of moving back to the Tuileries Palace in Paris. It was also then, that the royal chateau lost its seat of power.

 

Exploring the chateau

The chateau can be divided into four main sections: The Palace, The Garden, The Grand Trianon, and Marie-Antoinette’s estate (or, Petite Trianon).

The main Palace has got interesting displays of paintings relating to history of France, art pieces and furnitures. Famous places in the Palace includes the King’s Grand Apartment, the Royal Chapel, Hall of Mirrors. My visit was honestly a rush, and I missed out on several of the apartments like, the Apartments of dauphins, Mesdames, Marie Antoinette and Madame de Pompadour.

Ceiling art deco at the main palace

Given the time constraint and the lack of maps (can’t believe that they ran out of maps!), it was really a pity. Therefore, I would strongly recommend getting there right at opening time. A full day needs to be set aside, to complete the visit at a more leisurely pace (I only had 5 hours for my visit). Some people have even recommended to visit the entire palace over 2 days- one day for the main palace and gardens, and another day for the Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s estate. They do sell tickets seperately for the different venues. So take advantage of that!

The famous Hall of Mirrors

The perfectly-manicured gardens of Versailles is another vast ground, which I did not have enough time to explore. It takes a lot of legwork to wander around the gardens, and explore the beautiful feature fountains. There is not one bit of exaggeration when I used the word “vast” as a descriptive. I had a lovely takeaway lunch by the gardens- one of the simple pleasures I’ve indulged in Paris.

With the Grand Trianon, I’ve missed it altogether! However, more information about the Grand Trianon can be found at the Chateau de Versailles official website. The Grand Trianon does look very majestic from the photos, and it seems like a second visit to the Versailles is a must for me next time.

I ended my visit with Marie Antoinette’s estate. As the estate was way too far to get there on foot, friend and I took the little tram from the main palace for just a few euros. The queen’s estate was regarded by herself as a place where she could retreat from the rigorous court ettiquette that she had to observe daily. It was said that only her inner circle could visit her, on invitation.

The Petite Trianon, viewed from the french gardens

A portrait of Marie Antoinette at Petite Trianon

The Petite Trianon was restored in 2008, and I believe that it is a place where family with kids would enjoy Marie Antoinette’s Little Hamlet. I found the quaint thatched-roof houses very interesting, although they dont look real at all to me.

 

Getting There

You’ve got to thank France for her reliable and efficient transportation network! The easiest way to get to Chateau de Versailles is via RER. As I stayed near the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars station (which serves both metro and RER lines) was the nearest station to me. Take RER line C (yellow), towards the direction of Versailles Rive Gauche. Enjoy the rest of your ride, and jump off at the very last stop.

To get from the Rive Gauche station to the chateau, just follow the crowd. Almost all passengers on the train would be heading that way. So you can’t be wrong!

One perculiar thing with trains in Paris- I didnt realise that some trains are shorter than the others. I almost missed the train to Versailles, as I was standing outside of the markers where shorter trains should stop. And I can’t believe I havent worked it out, until I studied the monitors on the platform. There will also be announcements at the platform to remind passengers of this, especially at the more popular stops like Champ de Mars.

Another thing about how monitors work. Every train apparently have a name. A train can sometimes stop before the terminus (the very last) stop on the line. Therefore, a passenger will need to check the monitor and see if the train coming your way is going to stop at the terminus. It will also indicate whether a train is the normal long one, or the shorter one (“court” in french).

Other tips

• To avoid long queues, purchase your tickets online, and print it out before you leave home
• The famous Angelina Cafe has an outlet at Versailles, near the Grand Trianon. A great place to rest your feet and enjoy a cup of the much-coveted hot chocolate!
• Fren had initially suggested that we could try out Le Limousin, which is also in the Versailles region, for lunch. It was highly raved about on many websites, including TripAdvisor. I’d definitely give it a go the next time.
• For a more budget-friendly meal, there’s a Macdonalds not far away from the chateau. They actually sell macaroons there, at EUR1.00!! Of course, there’re many other restaurants nearby, and I managed to check out a cute chocolate specialty shop too.

All in all, I’d really love to spend a day or two at Versailles, to check what this suburb of Paris has to offer, other than the famous royal chateau.

 

Arriving in Paris…

After what seemed like a long excruciating wait to October, I was finally able to execute the itinerary I’ve planned for the longest time! So, on a cool early October morning, I find myself getting off a long haul flight, to join the orderly queue at the immigration counter… with much apprehension. I’m sure one would understand how a female, first-time solo-traveller would feel, regardless the amount of mental preparation involved prior to the trip.

The custom clearance was, thankfully, a breeze. I was politely greeted by the custom officer, and to my surprise, they don’t ask imposing questions like they do in Australia. I was initially worried about singled out. As you see, solo-travellers are always viewed as potential “skippers” by the Australian customs as people who intend to overstay on their tourist visas.

Airport Transfer

The most cost-effective way to get from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport is to use the metro. The metro also saves the pain of being stuck with the horrible traffic during peak hour. However, this may not suit travellers with large baggages, as alot of metro stations are not equipped with lifts or escalators. It has been mentioned on a few websites that travellers with lots of luggages are easy targets of pickpockets. Nonetheless, I’m making a note to try out the metro if I visit Paris again. I’ll probably have to bring just one large trolley suitcase with me (with a foldable tote in it, for my shopping spree during the trip, of course).

Anyway, I have pre-booked airport transfer from Parishuttle (note that it’s spelled with single “S”). Although the shuttle was an hour late, I still find it pretty reliable, compared to scary tales on TripAdvisor, about how some shuttle companies just didnt show up at all!

At EUR20, this has to be the safest and most practical alternative for a solo-traveller.

The Apartment

My accomodation in Paris- a one-bedroom apartment booked via Vacation-In-Paris. Be aware that some short-stay accomodation websites are bogus. I checked out their reputation on TripAdvisor.com before making payment. Their services aren’t too bad- the keys were sent to me before I left home, and the security deposit was promptly refunded after I mailed back the keys. However, I wished they could be more flexible with their cancellation policy.

The experience of staying in an apartment was great. It was very near to the Eiffel Tower, and close to supermarkets, bakeries, numerous bars and restaurants. The famous Rue Cler clobblestoned, open-air markets was also a mere short stroll. There’re two metros, that serves two different lines, within easy walking distance from the apartment too. Above all, I got to experience living like a real Parisian. The apartment I’ve rented housed local residents, in a real neighbourhood.

A view of the Eiffel Tower from my window at night

However, the conveniences and joys of staying in an apartment are far outweighed by the fact that Im a solo-traveller (who is also very bad with directions). For one, there was no lift in the apartment, and I was staying on the 3rd level! Do not expect a 24-hour reception desk to be available to fix a broken phone line or air-conditioner, or to serve the purpose of keeping irrelevant people away from the apartment. If you’re not sure whether to head west or east for Eiffel Tower, good luck too! Therefore, for security reasons, I’d probably never opt for apartments again, if I were to travel alone. Of course, with good company, it’d be a different matter altogether.

 

 

First day in Paris

I spent my first day in Paris, roaming around the neighbourhood, while waiting for friend, J, to arrive later in the afternoon. She was to spend a few days with me, before making her way down to South France (how lovely!!).

I planned to have lunch at Cafe du Marche (which received many acclaimed reviews from blogs of travellers and websites). To my dismay, the internet was not working in the apartment, and I was unable to look up detailed directions to get there on Google Maps!  With a rough tourist map that did not have details of smaller streets on it, finding that place proved to be impossible. I ended up getting kinda lost, but it wasnt really a bad thing. The good thing was, I can always use the Eiffel Tower as my bearing to get back to at least somewhere closer to the apartment =)

Somehow, I managed to locate Rue du commerce, where Monoprix, Zara, H&M and many other boutiques can be found. Monoprix is pretty similar to Carrefour, where clothing, cosmetics, and food items can be found under one roof. Monoprix and Franprix are great for picking up food stuff to bring home as souvenirs. There’s also a florist that has got an amazing display of fresh flowers selection.

Time passed really quickly, and before I knew it, J has arrived! We had an amazing time checking out the Chanel, Hermes and LV. I picked up my first orange box that day.

I’ll make a convenient end here, with photos of the amazing window display at 24 Faubourg Saint-Honore, the famed flagship boutique of Hermes:

Will update more later!

 

Mind-reader?

I was reminiscing over Paris just yesterday, and the sweetest surprise popped up in my email!

A New Year greeting from Paris Greeters! The glorious photos that accompany the greeting really melts me. Ah, how did they know what I was thinking! =)

Paris Greeters is an organisation of local volunteers with intimate knowledge of history and heritage various district in Paris. I’d highly recommend visitors to Paris to book a 2-3 hours walking tour with Paris Greeters, to explore the city from the perspective of a local. It provides a safe opportunity for the tour participant to explore the off-beaten tracks of Paris and experience the unpretentious local charm.

Of course, as promised, I’ll write my walk with my wonderful volunteer, Fabienne, in details, as soon as I get into the writing mood get time. Yes, get time, I mean…

 

I’m beginning to miss Paris alot! Looking back on all those trip photos brings back so much fond memories. Even if they inevitably include silly things I’ve said or done so innocuously (haha!).

I promise I’ll update more with my travel adventures, including my suggested itinerary. In the meantime, here’s a few snap shots which I hope, could somehow summarise some of the things I miss about Paris:

Will be back with my long-winded tales soon. And, I can’t sign off without wishing everyone a Happy New Year- in that I mean, a really happy, entire year ahead for all!

Bon nuit for now!

 

Happy Holidays!

Christmas function lunch for this year was held at the hotel ballroom. The buffet spread was good, although I didnt get round to try everything on the table. The desserts selection was small but really wonderful. 

Beginning the day with my xmas outfit- a dusty pink dress with black embroidery, accessorised with simple black beaded necklace and Hermes bracelet. The Chanel classic flap was worn with the chain tucked in. It was enough to fit all I need- wallet, keys, phone, compact-sized camera and lip gloss =)

And you’ve got to love these xmas crackers! They look so pretty, but I havent gotten over the childhood fear that they were made to explode! =X

Hope that everyone had a great xmas, and is looking forward to a brand new year!