Paris~Our sparkling holiday in the city of lights

Our holiday 2012 getaway to London & Paris continues. To see more click on my 

Stylemindchic: London Getaway  or my previous Paris Getaway Guide. 

Ahhhh, Paris....you always makes me swoon. This visit we arrived in Paris, via the Eurostar Terminal after taking the train (under the English Channel) from London. It struck me that, though not far in distance, the cultures feel worlds away. 

Recently spiffed up for the Olympics London feels sophisticated and polished, mixed with classic, royal edges and a dry, witty sense of humor. Crown jewels, colorful guards, vintage taxis, cozy pubs, 

bright umbrellas....and royalty.

 Paris is slightly unbuttoned, but very chic~read long leisurely cafe lunches with le vin, pink sunset walks along the seine, impossibly chic styles that look effortless. Ornate limestone architecture, the smell of fresh patisseries and the melody of the French accents....that indescribable je ne sais quoi.

London + Paris (each uniquely charming)=a brilliant pairing for a holiday.

   
In Paris we selected our hotel, The Saint James & Albany, for it's perfect location, directly across from the Jardin des Tuileries and the Louvre Museum, just two blocks off the Siene.  It's just a block from the chic boutiques and cafes of Rue St. Honore` and across the street from the Metro.  

An evening walk to view the sparkling tree and colorful glass dome at Galeries Lafayette. The sparkling Christmas windows, walking the square of Place Vendome at night, all decked with festive lights, made for a magical evening in Paris.

                                                    Yes, flowers in Paris in winter!

Walking the neighborhoods, our favorite escape.

One of our favorites~Rue de Grenelle

The Louvre

 

Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the 6th is one our favorite areas.

Christmas Day~a Concert at Cathedral Notre Dame

Our room with a view.

                                                    Our favorite cafe` on Rue Saint Honore`
                   Cafe` Cremes, warm nutella crepes, sancerre with lunch....charming.

The confectionery jewel box of Laduree` (this is the sweetest link ever!) 

(Scott here... really, you must click on this link.... cute, happy, fun)

Macarons from Laduree` a must. 

                                       A few of my favorite Instagrams snapped on the trip

Traveling with my family on this trip was such a treat!

It's difficult to define the ambiance of Paris in words.....  I let my photos paint the picture.

Do you have a favorite spot in Paris?

I would love to hear about it.....

Cheers, 

Heather

All images Stylemindchic

                                                     

Shop the Stylemindchic Boutique~New arrivals from London/Paris soon!

Ideas on packing for Paris! Click on pic for resources.

Button Front Tops
Boots