The Paris Love Letter turns ONE today!

This week marks a momentous occasion for The Paris Love Letter – our 52nd issue signifies a full year of sharing our love for the City of Lights with the world!

Our baby is growing up so fast! What began in May 2023 as a humble newsletter for friends and family has blossomed into a thriving community of thousands, all united by a passion for Paris. We're incredibly grateful for your continued support and can't wait to embark on many more Parisian adventures with you in the coming year!

To celebrate this milestone, we're offering a special 40% discount on our fine art photo prints this weekend only! 

Coupon Code: HBD40

Use coupon code HBD40 at checkout to redeem your 40% discount only until Sunday, May 5th at our PRINT SHOP.

Here's to another year of exploring Paris together!

In This Issue of The Paris Love Letter

• Personal Update: Happy Birthday to The Paris Love Letter!

• Cafe Culture: Restaurant OM SHIVA - My favorite traditional Indian restaurant in Paris

• The Secret Life of Paris: Explore Paris's Serene Secret: Square du Vert-Galant

• Featured French Song: Melody Gardot - La Vie En Rose

FOUND IN PARIS
Fun & Useful Links

➡️ Paris Is the World's Best City for Drinking Natural Wine - For wine lovers, this article explores the world of natural wines and recommends trendy bars where they can be enjoyed.

➡️ 10 Paris art exhibitions we can’t wait to see in 2024 - From TimeOut: So you’ve done the Louvre – but this city has plenty more to offer. These are the best museums in Paris according to TimeOut.

➡️ The Paris Love Letter’s Very First Issue - In celebration of our first year, we'd love to take you down memory lane! You can revisit our first issue, published on May 5th, 2023. It's fascinating to see where it all began and how much The Paris Love Letter has blossomed over the past year.

Flight Alert ✈️ 🚨 I haven’t flown on Norse, but if you’re near New York and looking for cheap, direct, round-trip flights to Paris, it doesn’t get much cheaper than this! See the image below - an example trip from Google Flights.

CAFE CULTURE
OM SHIVA - My Favorite Traditional Indian Cuisine in Paris

Tucked away on Rue Saint-Lazare lies a haven for lovers of authentic Indian food - OM SHIVA. This charming restaurant, a personal favorite among locals (including myself!), offers a delightful escape from the tourist throngs. Stepping inside, you're greeted by the warmth of the staff and the inviting aroma of spices that will have your mouth watering.

OM SHIVA's consistently high ratings suggest a dedication to tradition, with recipes perhaps honed over generations. This dedication translates to a taste of true Indian cuisine. While the entire menu is a tempting exploration, their Biryanis and Kormas are particularly noteworthy. The Biryanis, fragrant rice dishes layered with succulent meats and vegetables, are a true explosion of flavor and textures. The Kormas, rich and creamy, showcase the depth and complexity of Indian spices.

Beyond the delicious food, genuine hospitality elevates the OM SHIVA experience. The attentive and friendly staff ensures your dining journey is as delightful as the flavors on your plate. They take the time to explain dishes and answer any questions you might have, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Why You Should Go:

If you're seeking an escape from the ordinary, a culinary adventure into the heart of Indian tradition, and a taste of Parisian charm, then OM SHIVA is a must-visit. For a truly unforgettable experience, try their Biryanis and Kormas – you won't be disappointed!

THE SECRET LIFE OF PARIS
Explore Paris's Serene Secret: Square du Vert-Galant

Square du Vert-Galant is an iconic public garden at the western tip of Ile de la Cité in Paris. Nestled at the original level of the island, the park offers a serene atmosphere with its lush greenery and captivating views of the Seine River. Named after King Henri IV, nicknamed "Vert-Galant" for his gallantry, the Square stands on historic grounds, formed by two smaller islets, Ile aux Juifs and Ile du Passeur.

Square du Vert-Galant was created in 1607, which is contemporary with the establishment of Place Dauphine. This period witnessed substantial developments under the rule of Henri IV, including urban expansions and beautification projects that shaped the city's infrastructure. The tree-lined garden is a retreat in the heart of Paris, providing a romantic backdrop and acting as a haven for residents and migratory birds.

Reflecting the essence of Parisian heritage, Square du Vert-Galant encapsulates the intertwining of nature and history. Despite transformations over centuries, it maintains a connection with the past, standing as a tribute to the legacy of King Henri IV. The Square's picturesque setting and historical significance make it one of the city's most romantic and cherished locations, drawing couples, photographers, and history enthusiasts alike.

Henri IV and His Legacy

A giant bronze equestrian statue of Henri IV dominates the Square, signifying his connection to this land. The sculpture memorializes the king's influence and has also turned a green hue due to oxidation, symbolically representing his nickname. This spot is a nod to his initiative to construct the Pont Neuf, Paris' oldest standing bridge, which began in 1585 and brought considerable change to the urban landscape.

Jacques de Molay's Final Moments

The Square du Vert-Galant is also notable as the location of the execution of Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar. On March 18, 1314, Molay was burned at the stake on the Île aux Juifs, an islet connected to the present-day Square. A plaque at the site commemorates this tragic historical moment, marking the Templars' violent end, a powerful military order during the Crusades.

Nature and Flora

The Square du Vert Galant celebrates nature, boasting diverse flora. Key tree species gracing the park include chestnut trees, ginkgo biloba, prunus pissardii, érables negundo (box elder maple), weeping willows, catalpa, and robiniers. This amalgamation of trees provides a dense, tranquil canopy, offering shade and a respite from the urban environment. In spring, the greenery is complemented by colorful blooms, creating a serene atmosphere for casual visitors and nature enthusiasts.

Leisure and Events

Visitors frequent the Square du Vert Galant for various leisure activities. Renowned for being a romantic and quiet spot, it's common to find couples enjoying a picnic by the water's edge, especially during sunset. The area is also perfect for families; children can play freely in this safe ecological green space. While the park is predominantly known for peace and relaxation, it occasionally serves as a backdrop for public events and cultural gatherings, adding to its vibrant communal spirit.

Artistic Inspirations

Artists have long been drawn to the Square du Vert Galant, finding inspiration in its picturesque surroundings. The park's juxtaposition of natural beauty and architectural grandeur, given by the adjacent Pont Neuf, makes it a magnet for painters and photographers alike. The Seine River – often dotted with river cruise boats. This fusion of elements cements the Square's status as a muse to the artistic community, embodying the very spirit of Paris through its intimate and inspiring landscape.

Paris, Unscripted: Snaps of Daily Wanderings

Carrying my professional camera can be cumbersome, but the cameras in our pockets are more than adequate for capturing the city’s beauty while on the fly. Here are a few places I ventured through the city (and around it) this week!

1. Passage du Chantier

2. Dog friends in Burgundy

3. Dogs enjoying the garden in Burgundy

4. I wish I could remember where I saw this door 😩

5. Thanks, Gloria, for this one of me while on tour with you!

6. The view near Square du Vert-Galant

7. I desperately needed a haircut at Atmosp's Hair. It’s as classically Parisian as it gets. Sadly, the owner, who’s had his shop in the 9th for over 40 years, is selling in June.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Melody Gardot - La Vie En Rose

This week, we revisit the classic "La Vie En Rose" with a modern twist. Melody Gardot takes the iconic song popularized by Edith Piaf and reimagines it in a sultry, jazz-infused style.

Her smooth vocals offer a fresh take on the song, focusing on the tender emotions of love. Gardot's version lets you experience the beauty of "La Vie En Rose" more intimately, reminding us why this song remains a favorite. So put on your headphones, relax, and let Melody Gardot's "La Vie En Rose" transport you to a world of Parisian romance.