Paris Weekends

Something for the Weekend (January 27th - 29th)

2012-01-26T22:10:00.001+01:00

Stuck for ideas for things to do this weekend in Paris, or just want to step slightly off the beaten track? Try these suggestions... Shopping Grand Marché d'Art Contemporain Contemporary art fairs in Paris are generally hit and miss affairs, but this one has the benefit of being hosted in the Halle Freyssinet, an old railway building alongside the Gare d'Austerlitz. The theme this year,

Something for the Weekend (January 20th - 22nd)

2012-01-20T10:59:00.001+01:00

Stuck for ideas for things to do this weekend in Paris, or just want to step slightly off the beaten track? Try these suggestions... Shopping Affordable ArtFor those dreaming of becoming art collectors, but who lack the finances to do so, the Salon d'Art Abordable may offer a solution. Featuring the work of up-and-coming artists from many different disciplines, prices begin from around €150

Something for the Weekend (January 13th - 15th)

2012-01-12T21:40:00.000+01:00

Paris seems to be making a sleepy start to the year,weighed down by over-eating at Christmas followed by endless slices of the galette des rois in January.Expect calories to be burned off though this weekend at the sales, the twice-yearly battle for bargains! Shopping Les SoldesThe winter and summer sales are very strictly controlled in France, with official start and end dates that all

Paris in 2012: what not to miss this year

2012-01-05T16:49:00.013+01:00

For those living in the city, or for those just planning a short visit, here is a list of some of the most interesting cultural events of the year, and some of the key dates.Art Superstars Once again, Paris will be hosting plenty of big name exhibitions this year. Book in advance if you want to avoid long queues! Debussy, la musique et les arts How Debussy was influenced by poetry and the

Something for the holidays

2011-12-21T13:41:00.001+01:00

Although I will be one of the hundreds of thousands of Parisians to leave the city over the holiday period, for others the holidays will be an opportunity to visit the city. Luckily for them, there are plenty of special events organised, many of which are aimed specifically at the international visitor.If you are in Paris on Christmas or New Year's Day, you will note that the city doesn't stop

Something for the weekend (16th - 18th December)

2011-12-14T22:18:00.027+01:00

The last full weekend in December, and the first weekend of the holidays in France. Shopping is still on everyone's minds, but the party season is now in full swing too!Shopping Noel vintageVintage Christmas for brings to mind the songs of Phil Spector, but I'm not sure that that's what you'll get this weekend at the Bellevilleoise. What you will find is 50s and 60s style clothes, furniture,

Something for the Weekend (December 9th - 11th)

2011-12-08T21:09:00.013+01:00

Another weekend in December, another mix of shopping and culture!Activities Shopping In the run up to Christmas, several special markets and salons are being organised each week. Here's a little selection of this weekend's events:Salon Art Terrible: contemporary art fair held in the Espace Commines, a converted 19th century industrial warehouse.Hotel Boheme: an 'ethical' craft fair, featuring the

Something for the Weekend (December 2nd - 4th)

2011-12-01T17:49:00.011+01:00

Now it's December, the Christmas period can officially begin (I refuse to promote any 'seasonal' events before that date!). However, there are also plenty of other interesting (and non-commercial) things taking place. Here's my selection...Activities Free museumsIt's the first Sunday of the month, so a number of national and municipal museums will be offering free entry. You can find a full list

Something for the Weekend (November 25th - 27th)

2011-11-24T20:58:00.005+01:00

A weekend ethical, artistic, sexy and down to earth here in Paris! Enjoy...Activities Black Friday Black Friday is now not just about finding bargains at the nearest shopping centre, but also a chance to support your local independant record retailer. See here for more details on what's happening in Paris for this event.Festival PigalleWithout doubt the biggest and most interesting event of the

A Black Friday in Paris

2011-11-21T14:13:00.005+01:00

Record Store Day, a worldwide initiative aiming to help keep small independant music retailers alive, now has a winter spin-off called Black Friday, which is being held this Friday (25th November).The name obviously refers to the now notorious Black Friday shopping frenzy (the day after Thanksgiving in the US), but rather than going to the mall for some bargains, this time you're being encouraged

Something for the Weekend (November 18th - 20th )

2011-11-17T17:43:00.010+01:00

There are 38 days left until Christmas - which means there's still plenty of time to enjoy a relaxing weekend in Paris! Here are a few suggestions.Activities Nuits Capitales Paris is celebrating the fact that its nightlife is still alive with a week-long festival of concerts and clubbing, often in places that are more than off the beaten track. You can find more information on the main event here

It's party week in Paris - but don't wake the neighbours!

2011-11-15T18:30:00.001+01:00

This week sees the second edition of the Nuits Capitales festival, an event that was set up last year to counter the reports stating that nightlife in Paris was dead.Over 200 events are promised, the largest of all being the launch party that took place at the 104 centre on Monday evening.A slightly bizarre feature of the event is the fact that several of the concerts take place during the day,

Something for the Weekend (November 11th - 13th)

2011-11-09T21:14:00.015+01:00

Another long weekend in Paris as Friday is a public holiday. Here are a few suggestions to help you fill that extra day!Activities Paris Photo For reasons unknown to me, November is traditionally photography month in Paris. Although the 'mois de la photo' is only held every two years in even years, the odd years are equally full with events. The largest of these - Paris Photo at the Grand Palais

Something for the Weekend (November 4th - 6th)

2011-11-04T22:42:00.003+01:00

A wet weekend is predicted for Paris. Nevertheless, here are a few suggestions to get you outside anyway.Activities Free museumsIt's the first Sunday of the month, so a number of national and municipal museums will be offering free entry. You can find a full list of these museums here.Cinema for the earsThe Goûter d'ecoute Arte Radio offers a series of short aural documentaries and soundscapes in

Something for the Weekend (October 28th - 30th)

2011-10-28T17:49:00.005+02:00

A long weekend in Paris as the 1st of November is a public holiday so many people take the opportunity to 'faire le pont' - myself included - so apologies for a slightly shorter list this week. If you have any suggestions of your own, please add them to the comments below.Activities Feeling GloomyClubbing is normally about thumping basslines and BPMs, but not for the Feeling Gloomy team. Launched

Something for the Weekend (October 21st - 23rd)

2011-10-21T08:56:00.001+02:00

A weekend of fairs and shows, but if you really want to get away from the crowds, why not get out and visit a farm? Details on all below.Activities The FIAC and other art fairsI've already mentioned the FIAC international art fair and its little cousin the Chic Art Fair, but there are several other similar events also being organised this weekend:Art Elysées: Returning for its fifth edition, Art

FIAC 2011: The art of making money

2011-10-19T12:20:00.000+02:00

Security is tight this week in Paris for the Milipol internal state security business fair at the Porte de Versailles, but it is likely to be even tighter still for the annual FIAC (Foire Internationale d'Art Contemporain) event at the Grand Palais this weekend.The event attracts a large portion of the world’s most prestigious private art galleries who come to display their offerings to curious

Something for the Weekend (14th - 16th October)

2011-10-13T18:15:00.000+02:00

A quieter weekend this time around in Paris, but still with plenty of activities to get you out and exploring. And if you're fed up with the city, why not get out to Reims for the weekend - there's a good reason to do so!Activities Bastille Quatier LibreAfter a successful first outing, this festival, celebrating the independent spirit of the Bastille district, is back for another edition. It aims

App review: Do you Unlike Paris?

2011-10-12T16:45:00.000+02:00

I was contacted recently by the Unlike city guides team who informed me that they were about to release a series of videos by various Paris movers and shakers, presenting their favourite parts of the city, to accompany their standard Paris guide. It sounded interesting so I thought I’d take a closer look. The application (and associated website) are nicely designed and easy to use. Most of the

Does quality affordable accommodation in Paris exist? (Sponsored Post)

2011-10-10T10:43:00.012+02:00

Like other major European cities in the 21st century, Paris is struggling to create a balance between its cultural and commercial needs. Its centre, like that of its more brooding cousin London, attracts wealth to such a degree that even fairly affluent residents and visitors find it increasingly difficult to remain in its midst amongst the super-rich tides that have swept through it. Paris has

Something else for the weekend

2011-10-07T12:13:00.019+02:00

A bit of an overspill this weekend as I have forgotten several important events!The Salon de la PhotoThis weekend sees the first important photography event of the season, a large-scale exhibition at the Paris Expo in the Porte de Versailles. Divided between art and technology, it covers everything the photography fan could want or need.Best of all, visit this link for a free entrance pass! http:

Something for the Weekend (7th - 9th October)

2011-10-06T13:43:00.019+02:00

With the end of the unseasonal weather, we can say perhaps that autumn truly begins this weekend. To cheer you up, here's a selection of interesting events around the city that should nevertheless encourage you to get out and about.Activities A Spider ShowNot a show for the faint-hearted perhaps, but one that may just help even the most extreme arachnophobic to see another side to our

Residency looking for willing artists

2011-10-04T11:36:00.006+02:00

VINGT Paris, a curious mix between real estate and arts listings based in Paris, is attempting to combine the two spheres by offering artists the opportunity to live and work in Paris for a month rent-free in one of the company’s managed apartments. Until October 19, 2011, candidates, artists of all mediums, are asked to submit portfolio, written motivation and proposals to residency@

Something for the Weekend (30th September - 2nd October)

2011-09-30T23:03:00.000+02:00

A few ideas for what promises to be a busy weekend in Paris.Nuit Blanche or Black Nights?The Nuit Blanche is the big event of the weekend (see my suggestions here), but for those who prefer something quieter and more reflective after dark, the Jour de la Nuit offers a series of events across France that will seek to reclaim the night from noise and light pollution.Potato DaysAlthough there may be

La Nuit Blanche 2011

2011-09-28T16:40:00.002+02:00

Good news for this 10th edition of the Nuit Blanche event - the current prediction is for a warm and dry weekend. Although many of the installations are inside, very often you'll need to queue outside for long periods, so it's always better if it's not raining!The event is divided across four zones, loosely linked to the lines 12 and 14 of the Metro (both of which will therefore be running all

Something for the Weekend (23rd – 25th September)

2011-09-22T09:47:00.010+02:00

The autumn may begin on Friday, but the autumn season in Paris is already in full swing. A selection of some interesting events this weekend can be found below.Activities 30 Years of the TGVFrance's famous TGV train is 30 years old this September, a date which certainly merits a celebration. The Gare de Lyon, the first station in Paris to host the train, will be the scene for the festivities

Something for the Weekend (16th - 18th September)

2011-09-15T21:10:00.013+02:00

The main event this weekend is the Journées du Patrimoine (see my suggestions here), but there are plenty of other events happening if you find the queues too long at key heritage sites.Activities Parking DayStarted in San Francisco in 2005, Parking Day is an attempt to reclaim the city from the omnipresence of the car. This year's annual event is scheduled (worldwide) for this Friday (the 16th)

The Journées du Patrimoine: My Suggestions

2011-09-14T15:20:00.011+02:00

One of the highlights of September in Paris is the annual Journées du Patrimoine (heritage days) weekend, where access is given to a wide range of normally closed to the public locations. Popular opinion will tell you that the event can involve nightmare 2-hour queues to visit some places (the Palais de l'Elysée, or President's residence for example), but my recommendations are a little more out

Something for the Weekend (9th - 11th September)

2011-09-08T22:26:00.000+02:00

Back to school, back to reality. Paris now begins its Autumn cycle, with a whole series of events planned before the end of the year, so although the temperatures may be dropping and the days getting shorter, there's still a lot to look forward to!Activities We Love Green A music festival cannot simply be a music festival anymore, but now must also be responsible and leave as small a carbon

Something for the Summer

2011-07-13T21:49:00.011+02:00

Paris Weekends is taking a holiday for the summer, so rather than the weekly recommendations, you will find here a list of the principal activities on offer in Paris this July and August.Paris PlagesThe original Paris Plage celebrates its 10th birthday this year. In the last couple of years it has also spread out to the Basin de la Villette which offers a more laid back atmosphere and more

Something for the Weekend (8th - 10th July)

2011-07-08T14:41:00.012+02:00

A few suggestions for things to do and places to go in and around Paris this weekend.Activities Haute Cuisine Surely the most pretentious event of the weekend, if not the year, ('an emotional and aesthetic journey'!) but it may be of interest to some. The idea behind the event - held in the Palais Royal gardens - is to couple cuisine with the current ongoing Haute Couture shows in Paris,

Something for the Weekend (1st - 3rd July)

2011-06-30T17:33:00.012+02:00

A few suggestions for things to do and places to go in and around Paris for this first weekend of July.Activities First Sunday of the month = free museums Many of Paris's national and municipal museums offer free entry the first Sunday of the month. Click here for a full list of those that are included in this initiative.A Treasure Hunt"Dive into a real treasure hunt in the Parisian street maze"

Something for the Weekend (24th - 26th June)

2011-06-24T09:14:00.003+02:00

A few suggestions for things to do and places to go in and around Paris for this first weekend of summer.Activities Happy birthday Quai Branly The Quai Branly museum celebrates its 5th birthday this weekend with a series of events and visits, both indoors and outdoors. The highlight will arguably be a conference on Sunday afternoon with Gilles Clément, designer of the fantastic gardens. For more

Something for the Weekend (17th – 19th June)

2011-06-16T16:02:00.010+02:00

A few suggestions for things to do and places to go in and around Paris this weekend.Activities Skateboard Culture For its first major summer theme, the new Gaité Lyrique centre has chosen skateboard culture. Although the links between a 'sport' and a place with a mission to explore digital culture may not be immediately obvious, organisers point out the many artistic spheres skateboarding has

Something for the Weekend (10th – 12th June)

2011-06-09T14:59:00.019+02:00

Yet another long weekend, with Monday being a public holiday for some – but not all – Parisians (who said France was a simple country?). Enjoy any time you do have to explore! Activities Metro – Ticket pour un Expo The Paris Metro has long fascinated visitors and locals alike thanks to its unique architecture, its external stretches and its mysterious hidden bits. All in all, definitely a subject

Something for the Weekend (3rd - 5th June)

2011-06-01T21:48:00.006+02:00

A long weekend for many Parisians as Thursday is a Public Holiday and Friday becomes a 'pont'. Expect to find the city quieter than usual, but still with plenty of things to do! Activities Rendez-vous aux jardins Across France, 2,200 gardens will be opened up to the public, most offering a special series of events over the weekend. In Paris, the Palais Royal will be home to a 'jardin nourricier'

Something for the Weekend (27th – 29th May)

2011-05-26T17:36:00.007+02:00

Once again, not just a few suggestions for weekend activities in Paris, but also a 'restaurant and bar of the week' based on suggestions I have found around the web, and a 'Take a break from Paris' idea you might like to try. Activities Les Artistes de Belleville The artists open days in Belleville is probably the biggest such event in Paris with upwards of 250 artists opening up their studios

A Little Paradise in Paris

2011-05-26T10:19:00.002+02:00

Also taking place this evening (26th May) is an event called 'Little Paradis' which hopes to draw people's attention to the burgeoning artistic scene around the Rue de Paradis in the 10th arrondissement.Galleries, ateliers, studios and shops will be open until 11pm this evening, and naturally local bars and restaurants will also be taking part in the event.For the full programme, see the official

Accessibility Night: discovering just how unaccessible Paris can be!

2011-05-23T17:07:00.005+02:00

Thanks to Mary-Kay for pointing out an interesting initiative in Paris this week. The 1st Nuit de l’accessibilité on Thursday May 26th,organised by the Jaccede association, aims to be a fun and festive event where volunteers will learn about the difficulties of life in the city for the disabled.Meeting up at La Bellevilloise in the 20th (but hopefully not on the top floor via that rickety

Something for the Weekend (20th - 22nd May)

2011-05-19T14:31:00.019+02:00

Now that Blogger seems to be working correctly again I can once more add a few suggestions for weekend activities in Paris. Over the next few weeks I'll also try to add a few more themes, including 'restaurant and bar of the week' based on suggestions I can find around the web, and a 'Take a break from Paris' theme which will suggest awayday destinations from the capital you might like to

Something for the Weekend (6th – 8th May)

2011-05-05T16:40:00.004+02:00

More bad luck for Parisians this weekend – another public holiday lost because it falls on a Sunday! Whereas May 1st is sacrosanct though and many museums and other facilities were closed, expect far more widespread opening this time around (apart from the municipal museums).Body Shops A new exhibition began this week at one of the city's leading photography galleries, Les Douches La Galerie.

Something for the Weekend (29th April – 1st May)

2011-04-28T15:19:00.009+02:00

Bad luck for French workers this weekend as a Public Holiday falls on a Sunday. However, with the sun still shining, it will still feel a little like a holiday!May Day Protests!May 1st is traditionally a day to march and protest (this year the theme will be the perceived xenophobia of the French government) and as this year it falls on a Sunday, it is possible that many more people than normal

Something for the Holidays

2011-04-15T21:34:00.006+02:00

Holiday time again in Paris (for me too, but far from the city!), and many things to see and do. Here are a few of my recommendations. Journée du Disquaire/Record Store Day Every weekend seems to bring some kind of new celebratory event, and the next two are no exception. Saturday 16th sees one that grows enormously each year (it only begun in 2007), and this year it is arriving in force in

Something for the Weekend (8th – 10th April)

2011-04-08T14:17:00.002+02:00

For me there is only one event this weekend - Obscura Day!Even if you are not in Paris this weekend, you should find an event close to where you live. If you are in Paris, though, I am organising two events. The morning event - a visit to the Jardin d'Agronomie Tropicale is already sold out (although there might be a couple of returned tickets - let me know if you are interested), but there are

Something for the weekend: Gardens Special!

2011-03-31T15:44:00.007+02:00

Maybe it is because spring is finally upon us, but Paris has gone garden crazy. Here’s a look at some exhibitions on the theme currently running in the city, as well as some recommendations for some real outdoor exploration!Nature et idéal : le paysage à Rome, 1600 – 1650Until the 17th century, landscapes did not exist as a subject in painting, serving instead uniquely as a backdrop for portraits

Something for the Weekend (25th – 27th March)

2011-03-24T16:28:00.005+01:00

Band of Brothers The Jacksons, the Wilsons, the Gallaghers... They don't always get along, but the dynamics created by family ties often make for interesting art. The impressionist painte Gustave Caillebotte is certainly well-known, but his piano-playing photographer brother Martial is less familiar to us. As this exhibition shows though, they had many of the same interests and worked on many of

Something for the Weekend (18th – 20th March)

2011-03-18T06:09:00.001+01:00

Books Books, BooksThis weekend sees the beginning of the Salon du Livre in Paris, but for those who prefer to read in English, the bi-annual English-language booksale held by SOS Help is this Sunday. All hardbacks are 2 euros, and paperbacks are just 1 euro. What’s more, it’s all for a good cause!Sunday, March 20th, 12 pm to 4 pmOrrick Law Offices31, avenue Pierre 1er de Serbie75016 ParisLes

The Ritz: an undergound experience?

2011-03-12T14:19:00.000+01:00

At the Ritz, as is the case with most upmarket hotels, it is perfectly possible to wander in off the street and explore the interior. On this occasion I was invited, but as someone points out to me, I can come back whenever I like to use the toilet. The restaurants and bars may be much rarer experiences, but it is always free to come here and dream. That said, is this universe something I would

Something for the Weekend (11th – 13th March)

2011-03-10T17:07:00.007+01:00

Le Rubis, un an déjà…Nearly a year ago I wrote about a new bar that had opened in my district. I liked how the owners had renovated a forgotten 1930s location and noted their frustration about not being able to host live music. Fortunately I was proved wrong, and they have been able to organise regular events, including this Saturday night when they will be celebrating their first anniversary. I

Something for the Weekend (4th – 6th March)

2011-03-03T14:38:00.008+01:00

With blue skies overhead, blossoming buds in the trees and March beginning, it really does feel like Spring is arriving at last. However, this weekends recommendations are all still indoor events!First weekend of the monthOne sign that winter is coming to an end is that the final On Ice party of the season will be held at the Patinoire Pailleron this Friday evening. To round things off in style,

Something for the Weekend (25th – 27th February)

2011-02-25T11:58:00.011+01:00

Between You and I The Collège des Bernardins on the left bank, completely renovated a couple of years ago, is organising more and more challenging and stimulating events. Alongside the discussions and debates, its gothic architecture is also being put to good use. The British artist Anthony McCall has created an installation from his 'solid light films' series in the old sacristy called '

Spotted by Locals Paris iPhone app: the winners!

2011-02-21T19:51:00.002+01:00

There were several interesting answers to the question 'what is your favourite spot in Paris' - too many in fact for me to choose the winners. I decided therefore to turn to Bart Van Poll, founder of the Spotted by Locals service, who chose his three favourite entries.As Bart said when giving me his selection, "these comments make me really curious and sound very "Spotted by Locals" although I

Something for the Weekend (18th - 20th February)

2011-02-17T22:38:00.001+01:00

A reduced selection of recommendations this weekend due to holidays.One thing I am particular sad to be missing is Dean Wareham playing the songs of Galaxie 500 at the Fleche d'Or on Saturday 19th. I will still have time though to visit the Carnets de Voyage exhibition at the Musée de la Poste. Featuring 600 drawings and 200 extracts from travel sketch books, it offers a real world tour through

Win a Spotted by Locals Paris iPhone app!

2011-02-15T09:47:00.012+01:00

Spotted by Locals, everybody's favourite online cityguides (ok, I contribute to the Paris version..), have just made their 33 city blogs available as iPhone applications. Normally priced at €3.99 (£ 2.99, US$ 4.99), you can win a complimentary copy here. In existence since 2008, Spotted by Locals is a network of blogs by personally selected local bloggers (“Spotters”) currently featuring 33

What is the most romantic place in Paris?

2011-02-11T09:45:00.017+01:00

“What's romance?” asked the writer D.H. Lawrence. “Usually, a nice little tale where you have everything as you like it” he concluded. Paris for many is the city of romance, the place they have come to live out a story or just to stop for a chapter, but more often than not, that romance is not as simple as Lawrence suggests.Romance, it seems is a place we can claim as our own, or more importantly

Something for the Weekend (4th – 6th February)

2011-02-03T14:29:00.011+01:00

Elles vident leur sac The mystery of a woman's handbag is the theme of Pierre Klein's (son of William Klein) exhibition which begins on Friday. Alongside photographs of the contents of the handbags are videos of the owners attempting to explain what they keep there and why. A curiousity worth investigating.Until March 4th 2011,Salon du Panthéon, 13, rue Victor Cousin, 75005Monday to Friday, 12pm

Something for the Weekend (28th – 30th January)

2011-01-27T12:04:00.009+01:00

A bit of sport, a bit of music, a bit of art and a bit of exploring. The perfect weekend! Le Prix d'AmeriqueIf you have never been to a trotting event, this weekend is the perfect occasion. Trotting (harness racing) is a kind of horse-race in which the jockeys are not on the horses, but rather in a very uncomfortable-looking chariot behind. The pace is slower than a standard horse-race as the

Something for the Weekend (21st – 23rd January)

2011-01-20T22:38:00.007+01:00

Suggestions for slightly off-beat activities in Paris this weekend.Non-stop MonetThe Claude Monet exhibition at the Grand Palais, which has attracted over 900,000 people since it's opening, is coming to an end on Monday evening. To give as many people as possible a last chance to visit the show, the museum will be open non-stop from Friday 21st at 9am to Monday 24th at 9pm. So if the urge hits

Something for the Weekend (14th – 16th January)

2011-01-13T17:31:00.011+01:00

The new year finally gets underway with ghosts, extra long football matches, disco punk and cakes stuffed with prizes. See below for more details. Ghosts in the Louvre A ghostly start to the year at the Musée du Louvre with an exhibition looking at how the theme of life after death has been treated in art. With a selection of sketches, photos and other forms of creation dating from the 15th to

2011: Events to look forward to

2011-01-07T16:01:00.010+01:00

As I (and Paris as well it seems...) am still slowly getting back into the swing of things after the holidays, I will not make any suggestions for this weekend, but instead you can find below a list of events and exhbitions to look forward to in 2011.2010 was a year for big name exhibitions in Paris, and although 2011 should be a little less brash, there are still plenty of interesting offerings.

2010: That was the year that was

2011-01-05T12:47:00.003+01:00

A year ago I wrote a list of events and exhibitions to look forward to in 2010 (on the http://www.freepariswalks.com website), but were my choices the right ones? Although there was predictable success for some of the large exhibitions (particularly both Turner and Monet at the Grand Palais), it was in the architecture section that my selections were widest of the mark. Should this be surprising

Something for the Holidays

2010-12-22T10:51:00.010+01:00

I will be away from Paris for around 10 days, but for those who will be in the city over the holiday period, here are a few suggestions of things to do. Consider it a kind of 'best of' of recent suggestions.If you are in Paris on Christmas or New Year's Day, you will note that the city doesn't stop like certain other cities (London..). It is possible to take a Metro, go to restaurants, the cinema

The soundtrack of our lives at Le Royal Monceau

2010-12-21T10:22:00.002+01:00

With a flurry of top class hotel openings currently taking place in Paris, each owner is looking for something a little bit different to help their establishment stand out from the crowd. At the newly redesigned (by the inevitable Philippe Starck) Royal Monceau hotel, the management have asked the sound designers at New York based Soundwalk

Something for the Weekend (17th – 19th December)

2010-12-17T05:06:00.006+01:00

What’s planned in Paris the last weekend before Christmas? Winter in the cityWith more snow predicted this weekend, what could be more seasonal than a selection of photos of cities in winter? Photographer Christophe Jacrot has chosen three cities, Paris, New York and Chicago, and snapped them in their coldest winter dress. The result is striking (see a sneak preview here)."Hiver en villes"

Musée des Arts Forains: open exceptionally for the holidays

2010-12-14T21:25:00.002+01:00

The musée des Arts Forains is a collection of 19th century fairground equipment, and a museum more in name than in practice. Housed in an old wine storage facility, it is a privately owned establishment which is used almost exclusively as an exotic backdrop to corporate events. Exceptionally though this Christmas, it will be open for two weeks, from December 20th to January 2nd.The museum is

Something for the Weekend (10th – 12th December)

2010-12-09T16:00:00.010+01:00

Magnum Days Magnum Days is a three-day event organised by the mythical photographic agency at their offices in Paris, featuring not only sales of collector and signed editions, exhibition posters and postcards, but also the chance to meet - and even discuss your portfolios - with photographers from the institution. All in all, a unique opportunity to have a behind the scenes look at how they

Something for the Weekend (3rd – 5th December)

2010-12-02T17:16:00.009+01:00

Skating, shopping, soccer and saveurs this weekend. More details below...Des Monstres Aux Skates The Rubis bar which I wrote about just after it opened is getting more and more interesting. As well as regular concerts, they are now hosting an art exhibition called Des Monstres Aux Skates. Mini-interview with Paul Guidal, organiser of the event: Can you describe the exhibition in a few words? A

Where to find the real Christmas spirit in Paris - part 2

2010-12-01T20:54:00.008+01:00

Continued from yesterday, a few suggestions for a few places to soak up an authentic festive atmosphere in the city.The Jardins du Palais RoyalAfter visiting the Galerie Vivienne, cross over the Rue des Petits Champs and take a stroll in the gardens of the Palais Royal, especially if night has already fallen. In the early evening darkness, the shops and cafes under the arcades become even more

Where to find the real Christmas spirit in Paris - part 1

2010-11-30T09:48:00.011+01:00

December is upon us again, and that means only one thing. Cheap wooden huts displaying goods that nobody wants or needs, dressed up as a Marché de Noël. Don't despair though if you are looking for a little Christmas magic in Paris - away from the crowds and from people selling flashing Santa hats - here are a few suggestions for a few places to soak up an authentic festive atmosphere in the

Something for the Weekend (26th – 28th November)

2010-11-25T17:08:00.008+01:00

There’s a strong probability of snow this weekend, and with Christmas lights now on and windows dressed, there should be quite festive atmosphere. So grab a grog and warm up with this list of selections below.Portraits d'écrivains de 1850 à nos jours As part of the Mois de la photo, the Maison Victor Hugo has organised an exhibition celebrating the links between writers and photography. Featuring

EnjoYourParis - Creators of shared experiences in Paris

2010-11-23T17:21:00.018+01:00

EnjoYourParis is a web-based service that enables individuals to sign up for activities or even to organise events themselves. Here I ask co-founder Guillaume Giler (with Rémi Brichant) why he launched the concept, and how he thinks the service helps people to get the best out of the city. Can you tell us a little bit more about EnjoYourParis?EnjoYourParis is a website that allows people to find

Something for the Weekend (19th – 21st November)

2010-11-18T15:48:00.007+01:00

Wet, wet, wet – a pop group we’d all like to forget and a description of the weather we can expect in Paris this weekend. However, if it is music you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place. The city is staying up late this weekend and tuning up for a weekend of song and dance! Les Nuits CapitalesLes Nuits Capitales is a new festival, running from the 17th to the 21st November, which is

A Beaujolais in Spring

2010-11-17T15:14:00.004+01:00

It’s Beaujolais Nouveau day on Thursday 18th, and although this generally means over-priced wines drunk half-heartedly whilst discussing whether this year’s cru tastes more like pear drops, bananas or petrol, it does seem like there will be a genuinely interesting event this time around. The Rue de l’Arbre Sec is a grey and rather depressing back street, which is entirely suitable for a road

Le Fooding: more than a feeling

2010-11-17T09:26:00.006+01:00

In the same week that French cuisine was named by UNESCO as an intangible world heritage (along with Flamenco dancing), it seems somehow appropriate that the Fooding movement should also celebrate its 10th anniversary with its annual award ceremony. More than just a crime against the English language (Fooding = Food + feeling), the movement has also done much to shake up the French food scene,

My Perfect Paris Weekend

2010-11-15T10:33:00.008+01:00

In this new series of guest posts, contributors will reveal the places that make a Perfect Paris Weekend for them. Here Sandrine de Paris reveals her favourite (winter) spots in Paris.A winter weekend in Paris Since I no longer live in Paris, I like reconnecting with the city and the people by going to all my favorite spots and taking my favorite walks. Le MaraisI enjoy a walk in the Marais,

Something for the Weekend (12th – 14th November)

2010-11-11T15:05:00.001+01:00

A long weekend for many in France this weekend following a public holiday on the 11th, but also one that promises to be cold and wet. Perfect then for a weekend of crime novels, film noir, prisons and science fiction! Paris Noir A new event - Paris Noir: Festival Europeen du Roman et du Film Noir - is taking place at the Maison des Métallos this weekend, celebrating the world of crime in fiction

Paris looks to reclaim the night with new festival

2010-11-09T11:23:00.002+01:00

In October last year, a group of artists and nightlife professionals launched a petition entitled Paris: Quand la nuit meurt en silence, claiming that "the general law of silence which strikes our events and places of social gathering is about to turn 'the City of Light' into the European capital city of sleep".A year later, the response has come in the form of a new festival called "Les nuits

Something for the Weekend (5th – 7th November)

2010-11-04T17:34:00.008+01:00

November is the ‘Mois de la Photo’ in Paris which means a whole host of exhibitions as well as the large ‘Salon de la Photo’ which is being held this weekend at the Porte de Versailles. Also listed below are a few other events to keep you warm as the days get shorter. Reminder – free entrance to certain museums and galleries It’s the first Sunday of the month, so that means many state museums and

Something for the Week (22nd – 31st October)

2010-10-22T17:27:00.005+02:00

It’s the half-term holidays and, strikes permitting, I’ll be away for the week. For this reason, I’ve left you not with a weekend selection, but with some suggestions for two weekends and the week in between.FIACUnquestionably the biggest event of the weekend, but questionable in its positioning. Here’s why the event makes me squirm a little, but as a counter-balance, here’s someone who is

The FIAC, or art as a commodity

2010-10-19T14:18:00.003+02:00

A week or so after the end of the Paris Fashion Week and the Mondial de l’Automobile, another important business fair is coming to the city this Thursday (until Sunday 24th), but this time the commodity is art. The annual FIAC (Foire Internationale d'Art Contemporain) event in Paris has become something of a circus, but there is no denying its rising importance in the art world. Based largely in

Something for the Weekend (15th – 17th October)

2010-10-14T09:25:00.006+02:00

A bric a brac of events this weekend, which is apt, as two of my recommendations concern outdoor markets! L’Objet du Cœur at the Puces de Vanves Another excuse to visit the Puces de Vanves flea market this weekend as many of the stall-holders will be displaying an ‘objet du cœur’, or something that has particular significance for them. These objects, which may be precious or modest, rare or

Strikes in Paris

2010-10-13T09:07:00.003+02:00

If you are planning to come to Paris this weekend, here are a few websites you may want to keep an eye on:The Metro: http://www.ratp.info/orienter/trafic.php (only available in French - the English section of the site contains no information about the strikes.SNCF: (including Eurostar, Thalys...): http://www.infolignes.com/previsions.php?zoneId=1&zoneName=Nord (again, no English version, but just

Finding a hotel with a heart in Paris

2010-10-11T15:38:00.005+02:00

Finding the right hotel for a trip away is never an easy task. Although online searches can reveal the best prices, it is more difficult to be assured of reliable quality control. To fill this gap, Thierry Leclercq and his brother Jérôme left their jobs to set up Heart of Paris Hotels, a hotel reservation website featuring only establishments that they have personally visited and approved. Here I

Something for the Weekend (8th – 10th October)

2010-10-07T15:21:00.005+02:00

It’s the battle of the districts this weekend as three parts of the city will be competing to attract the crowds to their events. Elsewhere, choose between quiet reflection or bawdy burlesque! Fete des vendanges de MontmartreIt’s grape-picking time, and in Montmartre, with its tiny vineyard but magnified history, it’s also party time. Over a 5-day period until Sunday, the hillside will be the

Is French cuisine dead?

2010-10-06T21:11:00.006+02:00

The Independant newspaper in the UK today published an interesting debate on the ever-popular subject of French food and its supposed decline. Arguing that the country's culinary skills are indeed in decline, food writer Rosie Boycott argued that "there's no doubt that something has really sagged in terms of French home cooking", and that "even the markets are more lacklustre than they were".

Something for the Weekend (1st – 3rd October)

2010-09-30T16:21:00.005+02:00

Sleepless nights this weekend as the annual Nuit Blanche event returns to the city. If you need your sleep though, you’ll also find several other recommended (daytime!) events below. The Nuit Blanche As usual, the event is spread across several zones in the city. This time they are Ouest (around Champs Elysèe/Trocadero), Est (Belleville), and Centre (the Marais, Chatelet and Saint Germain).

Getting ready for la Nuit Blanche

2010-09-28T16:07:00.003+02:00

The Nuit Blanche, the annual all-night artistic happening in Paris, is back upon us this Saturday. If you want to get the best from the event, or if you want to get involved in some small way, here are a few 'before the event' suggestions.Download the iPhone applicationThe city of Paris has prepared a free application that details the events taking place, helps you to plan your itinery, and will

Something for the Weekend (24th – 26th September)

2010-09-23T17:07:00.001+02:00

Find below my recommendations for this weekend in Paris.The Festival America Vincennes, which has it’s annual Prix de l’Amerique horse race, also has a biennial America literary festival. As well as books and authors – including Bret Easton Ellis, Jay McInerney, Colum McCann and Douglas Kennedy – you will also find films, debates, concerts and exhibitions, all of which deal with America in a very

The Grand Palais launches its Monet spinner

2010-09-23T11:15:00.003+02:00

The Grand Palais yesterday (September 22nd) launched the biggest show of this (and several other) autumn seasons with a vast retrospective of the work of the impressionist Claude Monet.Over half a million people are expected to visit the exhibition over the next four months, and long queues can be expected at all times. However, if you are far from Paris or simply want to look at what will be

A Spectaculaire Weekend

2010-09-20T22:21:00.004+02:00

This weekend sees the return of another one of those excellent initiatives that the city of Paris comes up with from time to time. Called Spectaculaire, it is a two-day event that gives a preview of the cultural events that will be coming to the city in the next 6 months or so. Venues and organisations will be running stalls on the site alongside the river Seine and presenting their programmes,

Something for the Weekend (17th – 19th September)

2010-09-16T11:47:00.007+02:00

This weekend is all about the Journées du Patrimoine, but of course this is not the only event taking place in Paris over the next few days. You’ll find below my suggestions of interesting heritage places to visit where you won’t be expected to queue for two hours beforehand, as well as another couple of events if heritage really isn’t your thing.Les Journées du patrimoineI have already made some

Journées du Patrimoine: 4. 100 Years of the Ligne Nord-Sud

2010-09-15T22:19:00.003+02:00

Rather than suffer the Metro like most Parisians do on a daily basis, why not celebrate it instead? 2010 is the 100th anniversary of the 'Ligne Nord-Sud', today's line 12, and several events are planned to mark the occasion. At the Porte de Versailles station you can visit a train from 1910 or look at a selection of rarely seen photos of the old N-S company. If you are lucky, you may even be able

Journées du Patrimoine: 3. Le Siege du Parti Communiste

2010-09-13T21:09:00.003+02:00

Oscar Niemeyer's Communist party headquarters building is fairly underwhelming from the exterior, but it is the interiors that are the real draw. Twisting and winding concrete corridors and undulating surfaces lead to mysterious corners and to a fantastic space age auditorium. As an additional bonus, you can also take a lift to the rooftop terrace for exceptional views across Paris.Siège du Parti

Something for the Weekend (10th – 12th September)

2010-09-09T14:08:00.006+02:00

The Biennale de Belleville The Venice Biennale may be more famous and well-established, but could something similar be brewing in one of the most dynamic districts of Paris? Launching this year, the Biennale de Belleville will mix contemporary art, showcases and events, with performances and installations in a host of unlikely spots across this multicultural area. Highlights include Solde

Journées du Patrimoine : 2. The Musée des Moulages

2010-09-08T11:16:00.004+02:00

My second recommendation is an extraordinary experience, but certainly not one that will be for everybody! The Musée des Moulages Dermatologiques (museum of dermatological casts) within the walls of the Hôpital St Louis is a very private museum and generally open only to students and those working in the medical profession. If truth be told it is rather gruesome, but with fascinating historical

Journées du Patrimoine: 1. Palais d'Iena

2010-09-07T12:14:00.003+02:00

This is the first of a series of posts I'll publish with suggestions for the most interesting and unusual places to visit during the weekend of the Journées du Patrimoine (heritage days) which takes place on the weekend of the 18th/19th September. First up, Auguste Perret's architectural masterpiece.The Palais d’Iena is perhaps the most well-known and well-respected building of the architect

Something for the Weekend (3rd – 5th September)

2010-09-02T14:21:00.005+02:00

Architecture, history and football. These are some of my favourite things. I hope they interest you too, because they form the basis of my recommendations this weekend! A residency at Le Corbusier’s Cité refuge de l'Armée du salut A collective of artists going under the name of Abawé are currently in residency at the Cité refuge de l'Armée du salut (Salvation Army refuge), a Le Corbussier

Paris 2010: more tourists and from further away

2010-09-01T13:55:00.005+02:00

The city of Paris has reported an increase in visitors this year in comparison to 2008 and 2009, thanks notably to larger numbers than ever before of tourists from China, Brazil and Russia. Although British and American tourist numbers are down on previous years, the number of visitors to the French capital from China has increased by 33.6% this year. A similar rise (+29.8%) was seen in the

Something for the Weekend (27th - 29th August)

2010-08-26T21:32:00.002+02:00

It's already the last weekend in August, and there are many signs that Paris is coming back to life after the summer break. Finding a baguette has become less of a challenge, as has finding some organised events in the city! Here's my selection for the weekend.Rock en SeineThe last weekend in August is synonymous in the UK with both the Reading festival and the Notting Hill carnival, but in

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