Oh, I do love playing away.
What starts with a group chat culminates in 48 hours of debauchery with Les Garçons. The delicate mix of fear and excitement is palpable as you and your closest mates make the journey across Europe and beyond, to attend an event, or simply break routine in another location.
Although a weekend of letting your hair down is a lot of fun, making time to explore the destination will Always make the memories a little sweeter.
With that, we want to provide you with a few solid suggestions for your next away weekend (whenever that may be).
This series will provide you with insights on where to eat, drink and what to see, combining local expertise and tips from those who have walked the streets before you.
It’s inevitable you’ll return home licking your wounds and feigning away from checking the bank account, but let’s make sure it was worth it.
Paris (a)
Paris is instantly recognizable, effortlessly cool, and Always a good idea.
The French capital oozes romance and style, with monument-lined boulevards, museums and classical bistros providing the perfect backdrop for any visit.
A Parisian whom I know well tells me Paris is best enjoyed at a slow pace. He tells me to “Pay rent with espresso”, suggesting I park up on a curb-side wicker chair to watch as the world flies by.
Although I appreciate the sentiment, with a city as full and vibrant as Paris there is no time to waste. Instead, I opt to get out and about, believing any of the below stops are a must when in town.
Where to eat?
France’s reputation for cuisine in truly world-class. Cosy neighbourhood bistros and enticing patisseries rub shoulders with triple-Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy.
When in Paris, it’s important to do as the Parisians do – dine at Bouillon Chartier, whose doors first opened in 1896. Since then, a steady stream of locals and increasing numbers of visitors have flocked to this authentic French restaurant.
Ask the charismatic waiter for the garlic and parsley snails to start, and the confit duck for your main. French wine is a must also to wash it down. Expect the waiter to write your order on the tablecloth whilst arguing with a colleague in their native tongue.
Like the snails, the bill will pleasantly surprise you.
How to spend the day...
- Montmatre et Le Marais
It’s the many neighbourhoods, and the personalities they possess that provide Paris with its enduring appeal. Le Marais and Montmartre are two of the best, and two Never to be missed.
It’s Montmartre’s lofty views, hidden squares and ivy clad buildings that draw tourists, locals and artists alike. But it’s the Sacré-Cœur basilica that makes them stay in Paris' steepest quartier. Bookended by some of the city's grittier neighbourhoods, Montmartre’s slinking streets draw you into the perfect weekend stroll.
Spend a morning heading upwards toward Sacré-Cœur and you’ll take in the various boutiques, bars, and cafés without ever getting lost.
Drinking in the view is essential, a dodgy caricature isn’t.
Honourable mention to the fashionable Le Marais district. The labyrinth of bakeries, boutiques, galleries, bars and cafes makes this historic yet trendy district one not to miss.
Where to start an evening...
- Along the Seine or Champ de Mars
Making your way through a bottle of French wine, fromage et accompaniments as the sun sets over the Tour Eiffel or Seine River, really is the ultimate way to close out a day, or as it happens, kick start an evening.
The Seine snakes through the center of Paris. On its banks are Paris’ best attractions, which explains the endless stream of boats taking them in. Find a spot and share a drink anywhere between Notre Dame and the Tour Eiffel to take part in a favourite tradition among locals.
As an alternative, set up a picnic on the Champ de Mars in the shadows of the Tour Eiffel.
Whichever you choose, you can be sure that either just about beats a game of beer pong in the hostel bar.
Where to get that Instagram photo
- Trocadero
With the iconic Tour Eiffel as your backdrop, the Trocadero makes for the perfect place to snap that essential Instagram photo.
Where to take in the best view of the city
– Arc de Triomphe
The stoic Arc de Triomphe is an iconic and powerful symbol of Paris. From the viewing platform you can see the dozen avenues that link the roundabout. In the distance, unobstructed views of the Parisian skyline will remind you of the beauty and scale of this city.
Afterwards, a stroll down the adjoining Champs-Élysées is a must. Expect to be carrying a bit of shopping once you’re done.
Include any of our tips in your itinerary and you will be left fulfilled and wanting more.
Au revoir!
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