New York from above

September 8, 2014

As much as I love New York from afar, there’s something uniquely magical about the city from above, as it appears to rise forever into the sky, and you rise with it. During these days of meetings and mingling with friends, I tried to catch a glimpse of day turning into night from as many roof decks as possible. As I discover others, I have a few that shall always remain my favorites.

The Peninsula Hotel sun terrace sits on the 21st and 22nd floors with a view of the regal St Regis.

Here I spent a humid New York day high above the bustle of the city, swimming and lounging in the sun, following a dynamic yoga class. Paradise found in midtown!

Soho House New York is not only a chic members only address, but the place to be seen. A haven for creatives, the perfect spot to meet a work friend and catch up on the goings on of the NYC ad scene.

A60 bar located on the 13th floor of 60 Thompson has stunning sunset views to compliment your cocktail. Where better to meet with a girlfriend who just flew in from LA?

I may never have my fill of looking at New York’s skyline from afar or from above. Until next time…

New York from afar

September 3, 2014

As anyone who reads my blog knows, I love New York. It’s the city I called home for many years, and still do. And it’s where I became who I am. When I return now, after living in Paris for 5 years (hard to believe!), I often find the city chaotic and cold, from the inside. It lacks the charm and class of Paris, in which you can walk the streets and lose yourself in it’s beauty. Certainly the energy and dynamism of New York makes up for anything it lacks. The skyline of NYC is unlike any in the world. And now, with the Freedom Tower standing tall, the city truly stands alone.

When I arrived to NYC I was invited on a Circle Line tour with fellow travel bloggers.

I very happily felt like a tourist and enjoyed the views as night fell upon the city that never sleeps.

It was upon this vessel that I met Kirsten, a travel photographer & Stephen, who runs walking tours.

And is was here, with lady liberty aglow, that my love for this urban jungle was felt most deeply.

Once a New Yorker, always, whether near or far.

adventures down south

August 23, 2014

In mid-August my Italian and I decided to do like the Parisians, leave Paris to the tourists, and venture south. I had heard a lot about the unpretentious charm of France’s Cap Ferret, and was eager to discover it for myself. It has been likened to Montauk, the most unspoilt part of the Hamptons, where I grew up. Our first stop was lunch in a rainy but elegant Bordeaux. I know little of this city, this being my second visit, but look forward to becoming better acquainted in the future.

Rather than head directly to this trendy enclave, we stopped in Arcachon for a few days. Just enough time to meet with friends and climb the highest sand dunes in all of Europe.

The Dune du Pilat measures 107 meters high and I felt rather accomplished reaching the top!

We spent the afternoon climbing, jumping, running… and sitting beneath the late summer sun.

Our next stop was Cap Ferret. We settled in with a plate of oysters, local wine, and a view.

The dominant mode of transport is by bike. And that is how we explored this little French paradise.

I could immediately understand why it was compared to Montauk with it’s chic yet relaxed vibe.

After many great meals including at the highly revered Chez Hortense, it was time to bid adieu.

Via boat and train we made our way back to Paris filled with sounds and tastes of the sea.

high tea for two

August 17, 2014

One reason I love when my mom comes to Paris to visit is that I get to spoil her. I spend months in preparation, planning all sorts of events, exhibitions, eating experiences, etc. This year I thought I’d surprise her with a mother/daughter high tea. Where better than at the Four Seasons George V?

Upon entering this ethereal setting, we were taken with Jeff Leatham’s stunning floral compositions.

My mom and I were in our element, both of us favoring sweet over savory.

We began our indulgent afternoon with one of Lucien Gautier’s fruitful masterpieces.

Is there anything better than French pastries with champagne to compliment?

How happy I was to spend such a memorable afternoon with my mom, and in such sweet splendor!

Auvers-sur-Oise

August 7, 2014

This past spring when my mom came to visit, I thought about where to bring her. Last year we had explored Chantilly, and while it would have been a lovely time of year to visit Giverny, I opted to be more creative and we ventured to Auvers-sur-Oise. This commune, only about 27 kilometers northwest of Paris, was once home to the Impressionists. More specifically, Paul Cézanne, Charles-François Daubigny, Camille Pissarro, Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot and, Vincent van Gogh.

This was a trip into Van Gogh’s life. It was incredible to be amidst the church that he once painted.

It is here that he rests alongside his brother Theo, who passed away only 6 months after Vincent.

The next stop was Château d’Auvers where we discovered a most insightful interactive journey into the lives of the Impressionists. A unique experience! Not to mention the breathtaking gardens…

As the sun was setting we walked the length of the estate, reflecting on years long gone.

It was time to bid farewell to Auvers-sur-Oise. Like the artists before us, we headed back to Paris.

rive droite to rive gauche

July 31, 2014

Even before I moved to Paris I was always drawn to the rive droite, the right bank. That to me, is home. Everyone has a side, don’t they? When Habitat Parisien proposed that I experience life on the left bank (and in one of their gorgeous apartments with a stunning view) I didn’t think twice. Maybe this would turn me into a rive gauche girl?

My apartment was situated in Saint Germain, close to Pont Neuf. I climbed up to the terrace just as the sun was setting… What a view! Sacre Coeur in the distance, beneath a sky unlike any other.

I quickly made myself at home on rue Dauphine and contemplated never leaving this perfect perch.

Is there anything more magical than the Paris sky at twilight?

The next few days I spent evenings on my terrace, watching the sky change it’s hues, rosé in hand.

So how was life on the left bank? It certainly gave me a new appreciation of Paris as I explored a lesser known neighborhood and often felt much like a tourist. My affinity for the rive gauche grew, but deep down I’m still a rive droite girl.

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