26 Aug A Summer in Paris 🇫🇷
I’ve always felt a special connection to Paris since my very first visit in 1998. This summer, I’ve been fortunate to spend time here doing my favorite thing—not rushing from attraction to attraction, but settling in and living like a local.
I’ve wandered through the Marais, explored new arrondissements, met up with friends, practiced French, browsed neighborhood shops and open-air markets, and, of course, enjoyed incredible food.
Art has also been a highlight, including the Rodin/Michelangelo exhibition at the Louvre, the Matisse exhibition Hilma af Klint exhibition at the Grand Palais.
The immersive art installation “Infinite Staircase” by Argentinian conceptual artist Leandro Erlich.
Finding My Rhythm
One of the things I love about Paris is how naturally movement becomes part of everyday life. Between walking, stairs, and the Metro, I’ve been getting plenty of activity without planning it. It’s similar to New York in that way.
I brought a Pilates bar and resistance bands for some quick apartment workouts, which have been a great way to get in some weekly resistance training. They also pack very easily..
One day I logged 27,000 steps and 28 flights of stairs!
Travel also reminds me to pay attention to what my body needs. A bed that’s too firm or a pillow that’s too soft or flat? Modify, modify, and modify. This time, a poofy comforter folded into the unsupported areas gave my back the extra cushion it needed on a too firm bed. Towels folded into the bottom of a pillowcase can also add a little height or support when a pillow isn’t quite right. The point is to use what’s available to make your sleep setup work for your body.
And after all those miles, I was very happy to have packed my Vionic shoes.
A Few Things I’ve Been Enjoying
✨ Exploring without an agenda: Wandering through the Marais and various arrondissements has been one of my favorite parts of the trip.
✨ Art: The Hilma af Klint exhibition at the Grand Palais and the Rodin/Michelangelo exhibition at the Louvre were highlights. Next up: Matisse at the Grand Palais.
✨ Food & shopping: From the open-air markets to Le Bon Marché and La Grande Épicerie, there has been plenty to explore—and eat!
✨ Practicing French: I joined several French-English conversation groups and enjoyed the challenge and the conversations that came with it.
✨ Finding community: I joined a French cinema group that shows films with English subtitles and met a group of fellow New Yorkers. Of course I did!
Until Next Time…
One of the greatest gifts of this trip has been slowing down—wandering without an agenda, discovering local favorites, and embracing the everyday rhythm of Paris.
À bientôt!