In December 2016, Salona Bains Joshi embarked on a last-minute trip to Paris, enticed by the city's affordable winter fares and hotel deals. The majestic beauty of Paris struck her like the crisp winter air, with cobbled streets, intricate architecture, and picturesque cafes that epitomized the city's charm. Her adventure began on Rue Cler, a quaint street centrally located to most tourist spots, yet removed from the bustling traffic.
Joshi and her companion strolled through the beautifully decorated Christmas market on Rue Cler, sampling local delicacies such as roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry pudding. They stocked up on fresh cheese, berries, baby tomatoes, balsamic, and wine to enjoy during their stay. The colder evenings were spent sipping mulled wine and reliving the day's experiences in the comfort of their hotel room.
The first two days of their trip were filled with typical tourist activities, but Joshi noted that Paris in winter has a unique charm, with shorter lines and fewer tourists. A highlight of their trip was watching the Eiffel Tower lit up in all its glory, offering a breathtaking view of the city. They warmed up with mulled wine and cookies from the Christmas market, which also featured an ice rink for those who wanted to ski.
After exploring the city's iconic landmarks, Joshi and her companion visited the famous Angelina, a renowned spot for high tea. The delicately buttered croissants, flaky scones, and rich hot chocolate left a lasting impression on Joshi, who described the experience as spectacular. Another must-visit destination was Monte Marte, a picturesque hill with a church, cafes, and artists painting portraits, evoking a picture-perfect postcard scene.
Joshi and her companion signed up for a food tour at Monte Marte, which provided them with a taste of the best French treats. Their enthusiastic guide took them on a two-hour walk, sampling French bread, decadent chocolates, delicious cheese, and rich wine. The tour culminated in an unexpected feast in a wine cellar, where they indulged in more wine and an array of meat and cheese.
A visit to Shakespeare and Co., an old bookstore in Paris, was a delight for Joshi, a bibliophile. The store's aesthetically designed interior and wide array of books made it a treasure trove for book lovers. The trip ended with a visit to Disneyland, located outside the city, where they enjoyed a snow-laden Christmas parade featuring Disney characters.
Joshi left Paris with memories of her culinary adventures and souvenirs such as bottles of French wine, boxes of baby tomatoes, and a year's supply of chocolate and cheese. She praises Paris as a city that can be visited repeatedly, offering something new each time while comforting visitors with its familiar sights, sounds, and flavors.
Key points
- Salona Bains Joshi's Christmas trip to Paris was a culinary adventure that explored the city's iconic landmarks, festive atmosphere, and rich food culture.
