OUR WEEK IN PARIS

Nighttime Wanderings

This week, I had the pleasure of spending some time alone, photographing iconic sights along the Seine River. Capturing Paris at night is one of my favorite things to do when I have the time to wander.

The first photo I'm sharing is of the Cour Carrée, as seen from the Pont des Arts. The serene atmosphere and the play of light and shadows make it a mysterious scene at night.

Next, I ventured to the Louvre Pyramid (Photos in the ‘Mysteries of the Louvre Pyramid’ section), where the iconic structure was illuminated against the night sky. Its modern design beautifully contrasts with the historic surroundings.

Finally, I captured a view from the Pont du Carrousel, looking towards the Musée d'Orsay, with the Grand Palais visible in the distance. The reflections on the water added a magical touch to the scene, and the fog added a touch of mystery.

These nighttime explorations remind me of the endless beauty and inspiration that Paris offers, especially when the city is wrapped in the embrace of night.

LINKING YOU TO PARIS

➡️ These are the best exhibitions coming to Paris in 2025: From TimeOut, explore the top exhibitions set to open in Paris, including a fashion exhibition at the Louvre.

➡️ The 17 Best Beaches in France: From Condé Nast Traveler, this article highlights 17 breathtaking beaches, offering diverse landscapes and travel tips for each location.

➡️ January 2025 Restaurant Buzz - Where to Eat in Paris: From Bonjour Paris, discover recommended restaurants in Paris, perfect for pairing with wine or mocktails.

➡️ 17 Fun Things To Do in Paris With Kids: From Salut From Paris, explore 17 fun activities in Paris for kids, from visiting the Jardin d'Acclimatation to taking a Seine River cruise for a memorable family adventure.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Join Us for a Photography Workshop in Paris!

I'm thrilled to announce an upcoming photography workshop in Paris this May, co-hosted with the talented Zaman, who you might remember from our feature in Paris Photo Daily. We're excited about this opportunity to explore the city through the lens and would love for you to join us!

Designed specifically for photographers, this intensive workshop will span four days, capturing the beauty of Paris, from iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to the charming streets of Montmartre. With hands-on shooting sessions and dedicated time for editing, you'll have the chance to learn Zaman's post-processing workflow to achieve his stunning image quality.

If you or any of our readers' photographer friends are interested, we'd be delighted to have you join us. For more details, see the workshop page.

VISITING PARIS

Exploring Parisian Markets

Paris is a city where markets are more than just places to shop—they're hubs of culture and community. This week, let's explore some of the best open-air markets in Paris, where the spirit of the city comes alive in a colorful array of sights and scents.

Marché d’Aligre: In the 12th arrondissement, Marché d’Aligre is a lively market known for its vibrant displays of fresh produce, cheeses, and flowers. As you wander through the stalls, you'll find yourself immersed in a bustling atmosphere where locals chat with vendors and chefs handpick ingredients for their daily specials. It's a true crossroad of interaction, offering a glimpse into Parisian life.

Marché des Enfants Rouges: Located in the trendy Marais district, this is the oldest covered market in Paris, dating back to the 1600s. With its eclectic food offerings, from Moroccan tagines to Japanese bento boxes, it's a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. The market's youthful energy and diverse cuisine make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the history and flavors of Paris.

Marché Bastille: As one of the largest open-air markets in Paris, Marché Bastille runs along Boulevard Richard Lenoir and is a favorite for fresh produce, exotic fruits, and artisanal cheeses. The market's vast selection and friendly vendors make it a perfect spot to indulge in the freshest ingredients Paris has to offer.

Tips for Visiting:

• Arrive early to enjoy the market at its liveliest and have the best selection.

• Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept cards.

• Engage with the vendors; they're often happy to share their knowledge and offer samples.

Exploring these markets is a delightful way to connect with the local culture and savor the authentic tastes of Paris. Whether you're a foodie or simply curious, Parisian markets offer an unforgettable experience.

Here’s a video I made of a visit to Marché d’Aligre last summer

PARIS CAFES

Crepes Along the Canal

During a recent evening stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th arrondissement, we found ourselves drawn to Lulu la Nantaise. It wasn't a planned stop but rather a convenient choice as we wandered home with our little Lion, who was intrigued by the idea of crepes. Despite not often seeking out crepes, we were pleasantly surprised by the experience.

The environment was warm and inviting, and the aroma of freshly made crepes filled the air. Our little Lion enjoyed his classic ham and cheese crepe. Though it wasn't on the top of our list, Lulu la Nantaise turned out to be a delightful find.

For those staying in the neighborhood and looking for a simple, authentic crepe experience, it's worth a try. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a nice spot to relax and enjoy a crepe in Paris.

JOIE DE VIVRE

Capturing Life as a Modern Flâneur

The tradition of the flâneur, a leisurely wanderer observing the world, has long been a part of Parisian culture. These individuals strolled the streets not with a destination in mind but to immerse themselves in the rhythm of the city. Inspired by this timeless practice, I’ve found a way to blend the art of wandering with photography.

Whether I'm getting lost in unfamiliar neighborhoods or strolling along the Seine from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower, I let my instincts guide me. Each journey is an opportunity to notice the beauty in everyday moments and capture them through the lens.

Photographing with the same aimless curiosity as the flâneur invites us to engage with our surroundings in a mindful way. Try shooting not from the viewfinder or while looking at the screen but from the hip or chest, staying connected to the scene that caught your attention. This method shifts the focus from creating a perfect image to simply enjoying the process of photographing. The goal becomes the act itself, much like the flâneur’s destination is the journey.

I encourage you to try this approach in your own city. Allow yourself to wander, take photos, and see where the path leads you. You might discover that this simple act becomes a source of inspiration and a way to connect with the world around you. It's a wonderful way to bring a touch of Parisian joie de vivre into your life, no matter where you are in the world.

A PEEK INTO HISTORY

The Mysteries of the Louvre Pyramid

The Louvre Pyramid, an emblem of modern Parisian architecture, has a fascinating history intertwined with myths and mysteries. Designed by architect I. M. Pei, it was completed in 1989 as part of a grand renovation to enhance the museum's entrance and bring more natural light into the underground spaces.

One intriguing aspect of the pyramid is its connection to the Freemasons, a secretive society with deep roots in Paris. The city itself is rich with Masonic history, and the pyramid's design has often been linked to Masonic symbolism. The Louvre complex actually features five pyramids, one of which is hidden and inverted, visible only from inside the museum. This inverted pyramid adds an element of mystery and has sparked numerous theories about its symbolic significance, possibly linked to Masonic symbolism.

The decision to place a modern glass structure amidst the classical architecture of the Louvre was initially controversial. Many questioned how it would fit with the historic surroundings. However, Pei's design was intended not only to create a striking visual contrast but also to flood the museum's interior with light, enhancing the visitor experience.

Over the years, the pyramid has become a celebrated part of the Louvre, admired for its innovative design and the way it harmoniously complements the historic setting. It’s another example of how Paris so beautifully blends history and modernity.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Ben Mazué, Pomme - J'attends

This week's French Song of the Week is "J'attends," an acoustic session by Ben Mazué featuring Pomme. Known for their emotive and soulful performances, Ben Mazué and Pomme bring a unique blend of storytelling and musicality to this track.

The song has themes of longing and introspection, with Pomme's ethereal voice perfectly complementing Mazué's heartfelt lyrics. This acoustic version adds an intimate touch, making it a must-listen for those who appreciate acoustic music's raw emotion and simplicity.