My love affair with Paris began as a young school girl when I read Alexandre Dumas’ Count of Montecristo and Three Musketeers. I became more enthralled when I saw the movie adaptations and quickly then absorbed works by other great literary writers such as Voltaire, Hugo, Rousseau, and Balzac. I imagined myself living among these complicated characters consumed with moral dilemmas in a highly romanticized and tragic world of chivalry, nobility, greed, torment, love, political upheaval, and death. It’s no wonder these novelists inspired my own reasons to write and daydream. I can only imagine what stories lurked in dark corners at Versailles as the doomed Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette attempted to flee for their lives in the hidden passages of the palace only to be intercepted by the revolutionists. And how the Seine inspired the imaginations of Van Gogh, Monet, and Seurat as reflected in their works. Dear Saint Joan of Arc, one of the greatest inspirations of the French monarchy, gallantly led Charles VII to his victory coronation in Reims – also known as the “City of Coronations”. What I mention is not even a fraction of the great romantic history of Paris and its surrounding areas, but it offers inspiration to imagine and a glimpse into creating truly magical experiences for lovers- young and old.
Whether visiting Paris for the first or fifteenth time, the first or last time, for Valentine’s Day or any day, here are some very special things to enjoy:
- A romantic dinner cruise down the Seine with a chance to discover historic landmarks.
- A visit to the very top of the Eiffel Tower and surpass the lines. Enjoy dinner at the very exclusive Le Jules Verne.
- Attend the Paris Ballet, listen to classical music or watch classic operas at the opulent Palais Garnier such as Mozart’s opera Cosi Fan Tutte. Visit backstage to meet the cast.
- Enjoy a private tour of the hidden passages and rooms at Chateau de Versailles. In the evening dine at the new Alain Ducasse restaurant or have a private dinner in one of several exclusive private rooms and gardens at Versailles available for buyout.
- A trip to Champagne, only 45 minutes by train, offers you and a loved one an opportunity to visit some of the most prestigious Champagne houses in the world with visits to vineyards, cellars, and even a special dinner on site at Krug, Dom Perignon, Taittinger, and more.
- Castle hop in the Loire Valley and enjoy a five star gourmet picnic on historical grounds. It’s only an hour from Paris.
- Visit Musee Rodin, the Louvre, or L’Orangerie where one can gaze up on the Master Impressionists for hours.
- Take a gourmet walking tour in Montmarte known for its wonderful gourmet shops specializing in bread, chocolate, pastries, and more.
- Walking along the Pont Neuf or the Pont Alexandre III – rich in history and an ideal spot to kiss.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Le Jardin du Luxembourg which dates back to the early 17th century and has more than 100 statues of French queens and other well-regarded figures. The gardens are featured prominently in Victor Hugo’s novel Les Misérables.
- Take a pastry making class at the famous Ladurée where you and your loved one can sweetly gaze at each other while making delectable treats.
- Create a fragrance for you and your loved one – something so special and different that no one else can share.