On a Mission, Walking in Paris. Photo Compliments of Stephen Caldwell

This fall I spent a glorious week in Paris with a dear friend. I had wanted to do that for a while, spend a week just enjoying everyday Paris. We did a lot of walking in Paris, which I highly recommend. One can really take in the details of Parisian everyday life, study the architecture, smell the croissants, and enjoy the razzle dazzle of this great city. So often, a view, or a scene is like a real life picture perfect postcard. No editing or enhancing needed. Everyday Paris is amazing.

Walking so much in Paris, I had an “aha” moment where all of my past trips to Paris came together. I really got a grasp of the layout of Paris, and now it seems very personal and familiar to me.

Of course, if you are walking, it helps to have a plan. Last June, The New York Times published A Walk in Paris: Gardens, Greenery, and Flower Shops by Christine Chitnis, which was curated by Sandra Sigman. Sigman has had a long time love affair with Paris, recently bought an apartment there, and has a popular floral business in Massachusetts specializing in French floral design. Her delightful new book, French Blooms highlights the celebrated florist and her distinctive French style of flower arrangements. In The New York Times article Sigman tastefully guides you on a short three mile walk through the 6th and 7th arrondissements. You can stop and start whenever you like. If walking is not your preference, you can get to these places in your preferred mode of transportation.

Sigman highlights her favorite florists, eateries, green spaces, and specialty shops such as Barthelemy, an incredible cheese shop that has been in the neighborhood for more than 40 years.

One of the Neighborhood’s Most Charming Cheese Shop. Photo compliments of Stephen Caldwell.

These two neighborhoods, the 6th and 7th arrondissements, have an abundance of incredible flower shops. I can see why Sigman especially loves this area. This neighborhood also boasts Cafe Varenne, one of my favorite (and Ina Garten—Barefoot Contessa) casual spots for people watching and delicious lunch.

Inside the Flower Shop, 69 Bac

Each flower shop is different from the next, in what they carry, how they display, what they specialize in, and their locations. Flower shops and flowers are very popular and well supported in the Parisian community. It is not uncommon to see an armful of beautiful flowers heading to someone’s nearby home.

Jardin de Luxembourg, A Perfect Spot to End Your Walk

Sigman ends her walk at the Jardin de Luxembourg, a classic Parisian park, usually filled with relaxing Parisians strolling about, lounging in a chair by the Grand Bassin, or contemplating by the magnificent Medici Fountain. In October, the gardens were still bursting with color for all to enjoy.

Started in 1611 by Marie de’ Medici originally, Jardin de Luxembourg has seen many transitions. Thank goodness Jardin de Luxembourg was saved from the mammoth Haussmann urban redevelopment happening in Paris in the 19th century. Slated for demolition and development, 12,000 Parisians petitioned to keep the garden, ensuring its glorious permanence.

The Magical Setting of the Seine at Dusk. Photo compliments of Stephen Caldwell.

Not on Sigman’s curated walk, but a “must to do” sometime while you are in Paris. Stroll the Seine at dusk and sunset with a friend or a loved one. It is breathtaking, and postcard picture perfect. One really feels the essence of Paris and the amazing beauty that abounds.

Paris has recently made strides to make the city more pedestrian and bicycle friendly. Roads down to the Seine have been blocked from cars, encouraging you to stroll, meet up with friends, or perhaps stop at one of the riverfront cafes. Allons y!

Bon Appétit et Bon Weekend…Bonnie