Honeymoon in Paris.
Paris, The city of Lights, The city of Love. Whatever name you know it by – it’s pretty amazing.
Honestly, I don’t think it would matter where in the world you honeymooned, it will always be perfect. I say to my brides often, your wedding day is of course amazing, but I think its the next morning when you wake up, that you fully appreciate just what an amazing time you’ve had. There is a beautiful newlywed high which just feels kind of dreamy.
When you take off for honeymoon, whether it be for one night or two weeks, you are definitely in a state of bliss. I’m not saying that changes the honeymoon, but I will say say spending some time together after you wedding is pretty special.
For our honeymoon we went to Paris. I can’t believe that I’d never actually been and its so close! We went away for 4 nights and stayed at 2 different hotels, the Grand Pigalle for the first two then the Park Hyatt Vendome for the second.
We spent our days in Paris doing actually what should be done. Walking the streets, eating plenty of delicious food and drinking jugs of red wine – at all times of the day. There is no way that you can discover all of Paris in just a few days, but we managed to see a lot. It will not be my last trip, that much I know. This city is so vibrant and beautiful, we’ll be definitely be going back to see more.
So here are some staple tips for dining like an authentic in Paris.
- Chez nous. – http://www.cheznousparis.com/
We went to Chez Nous 3 nights out of 4. It’s the dream combination – good food – great wine. You enter the bar and take a seat. The waiters then come over and ask your preference of wine, first by colour. Then by body. Then they return with a glass and their suggestion – which they get right every.single.time.
- St Regis – http://www.cafesaintregisparis.com/en/
We’ve all heard of the Notre Dame. It’s pretty big and stunning to look at. The hoards of tourists crowd at the front and as you would expect, have a range of eateries to choose from. However, if you really want to enjoy the sights and love your dining experience, head round the back of the Norte Dame. Over the bridge to where the road forks. You’ll find two things, the best ice cream in Paris and the St Regis. The St Regis is always busy. It’s a small place that boast’s a cool interior, cocktails that make you want to stay there all day – and food that won’t disappoint. But the staff there are what makes it. Attentive, busy, amazing friendly and fun. They make ordering extra red wine, eating delicious food and casually lingering the day away even better.
- Ma Salle a Manger – http://www.masalleamanger.fr/
Ma Salle a Manger is the perfect spot, seconds from the Seine but hidden away. An authentic little gem. You won’t find grand furniture or elaborate tableware. But you’ll enjoy watching the waiters go about their business, people watching and the vibrancy of the city. Sit outside and watch the sunset with the river in the background whilst the city takes on its evening glamour.
- Ito Izakaya – http://www.itoeats.fr/#!menus/cee5
This place was amazing! In a nutshell – Japanese Tapas. Nestled in between a nightclub and other stores in the Red Light District, not far from the Moulin Rough in Pigalle you find this little gem! The best way we found was that ignorance was pure bliss. We blindly choose from the Japanese Tapas menu and were not disappointed with any dish! Japanese cooking in a fresh vibrant way. The restaurant has beautiful French qualities – like being totally tiny, and being edged in the restaurant any way you can. But enjoy the experience and finish with a high ball – a Nikka Whiskey and soda blend that finishes or starts the rest of the night perfectly.
You are of course going to want to the see the Eiffel Tower and I don’t blame you – she’s a beauty. Seeing her during the day and the night however are two different things. During the day stays chicand plain. But at night she comes to life – and is such a beautiful sight. Treat yourself and go on the hour, and for 5 minutes not only does she glow but she sparkles!
Be warned, Paris will keep a bit of your heart!
