Even
with the strikes, demonstrations and Eurocup football matches, Paris
was as beautiful and romantic as ever, but then again St Germain
always is. Layered outfits were essential, as the weather can take you
through several seasons within half a day, but if caught out by a sudden
rainstorm there is always a café nearby to find shelter (also a good excuse for having a little something!)
Ralph's
is one of my favorite Paris restaurants in summer. You couldn't
imagine a more enchanting setting for an alfresco dinner. If anything,
the courtyard is even more beautiful than when it opened a few years
ago.. the plants have matured to form lush alcoves and niches, providing
natural dividers for the pretty cobble-stoned courtyard (click here to see pictures from 2011).
The bar... a happy place to have a drink before dinner
In the meantime the light has turned soft and blue.. a perfect time to start dinner
Place de la Concorde, summer clouds and the Grand roue de Paris Ferris wheel
As you can see, I absolutely love my new Zara pieces (click here to see them in the previous post). This time combining them with black trousers and RV pumps.
Capsule pieces: layered top and khaki bomber jacket (by Zara, see previous blog post), black trousers by MaxMara
Accessories: Hermes 'Ex-Libris en Kimonos' 90 carré, Caleche enamel bangle in black and gold and a Kelly 32 in ebene.
Shoes: black patent leather pumps (Roger Vivier)
Accessories: Hermes 'Ex-Libris en Kimonos' 90 carré, Caleche enamel bangle in black and gold and a Kelly 32 in ebene.
Shoes: black patent leather pumps (Roger Vivier)
Street selfie!
The
Saint-Germain Ladurée on Rue Bonaparte is another place I love coming
back to. It is never crowded, and feels like the neighborhood café. You
hardly ever see a queue, and you don't even have to go past the macaron
counter and (temptations way!)... you can use the side entrance in the rue Jacob to get to the salon de thé.
The spacious light salon is tucked away in the back and is a wonderful
place for breakfast or a coffee in the afternoon. The hand painted
walls feature exotic landscapes and animals in colors which match the
blues, greens and reds of the whimsical Chinoiserie decor. (click here for pictures from a couple of years back).
The Blue Room
dining room on the first floor is plush and intimate. It has low
seating and twelve tables for two... what a great place for a small
private party!
The
elegant Place Vendôme is lined with watch and jewelry stores, most of
which have an artisan and a small workshop on the premises. This is very
useful place to know if your things only need a quick check or an easy
part replacement..
Capsule pieces: layered top, khaki bomber jacket and jeans
Accessories: Hermes 'Ceintures et Liens' cashmere GM and Kelly Double Tour bracelet in ebene.
Shoes: turquoise sandals (Roger Vivier)
Accessories: Hermes 'Ceintures et Liens' cashmere GM and Kelly Double Tour bracelet in ebene.
Shoes: turquoise sandals (Roger Vivier)
Roses Costes Dani Roses - one of my very favorite flower shops in Paris, filled with nothing else but fabulous roses. If you are staying for a few days in town, it is a special treat to buy a little bouquet for your home away from home.
As
usual, our train back home starts from the Gare de Lyon. I'd never miss
toasting Paris good-bye with a glass of champagne at the Train Bleu
(although I once missed my train because of it). It is undoubtedly the
most glamorous station restaurant and bar in Paris, and maybe the whole
world. The hand-painted murals on the ceilings and walls show the regions
in the South of France to where the trains set off from this station (click here to see more pictures of the Train Bleu)
The scene below (spanning both sides of the arch) shows a venue taking place in the early 20th century, at the Roman Theatre (1st AD) in Orange.
The scene below (spanning both sides of the arch) shows a venue taking place in the early 20th century, at the Roman Theatre (1st AD) in Orange.
Two weeks earlier we'd been in the exact same theatre..
... at the final night of Hans Zimmer's European tour. It was a stunning and magical evening.
21st century meets 1st century
In the foreground.. the great HZ with Czarina Russell (click here to watch her singing the Gladiator theme that night)
Roses Costes Dani Roses, 239 Rue Saint Honoré, 75001 Paris, Phone: + 33 (0)1 42 44 50 09
Ralph’s, 173 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, Phone +33 (1) 44 77 76 00
Ladurée St Germain: 21 rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, Tel. : +33 (0)1 44 07 64 87
Roman Theatre of Orange: Rue Madeleine Roch, 84100 Orange, Phone: + 33 (0) 4 90 51 17 60
www.theatre-antique.com/en/home
www.theatre-antique.com/en/home
You might also like:
Amazing photos, as usual. Thanks for sharing them with us! xx
ReplyDeleteMany thanks, dear Jill. Happy you enjoyed the post x
DeleteHope my comment has left, i looks like wifi problems again...
ReplyDeleteSo sorry chère Monica, but this is the only one that came through!
DeleteOh what a joy to travel back to Paris with you- and exactly at the same time my DH was there. Quite honestly, your Paris programme is a lot more appealing to me, and your pictures surpass by far in beauty, elegance and motives:) Though IG is always the fast way, it's so much more pleasant to hear all your little background stories connected with the photos. Thanks again for taking us along, dearest MaiTai, and needless to say, you are fabulous in your new wardrobe additions...
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the warm weather as long as it lasts,
Katja
Hope your DH had a good time, dearest Katja. Agree with you on IG..the posts there are like puzzle pieces, whereas the blog connects them into a bigger picture. Love putting the blog post together..it feels like re-visiting again, only this time with all of you lovely swans! Have a fabulous weekend x
DeleteI try once more! Hope its working
ReplyDeleteYay, working now!
DeleteLovely post, Mai Tai. Paris is always a feast for the senses, but more so in the summer with the flowers and blue skies. I love Laduree, especially the Marie Antoinette tea. I always get some and several boxes of fabulous macaroons at the Charles de Gaulle Laduree before leaving Paris. Fortunately, there is also an Hermes boutique at CDG for some last minute impulse scarf shopping. No need to bring any left over Euro home.
ReplyDeleteYou certainly know how to spend any left over EUR in style, dear Nancy! Will have to try the Marie Antoinette tea when in Paris next, if not for the name alone! Have a wonderful weekend !
DeleteHope you have a wonderful weekend, too. I'm headed to Venice this weekend...will be on the hunt for leather handbags and other yummy accessories....between gelato and cappuccino breaks.
DeleteHeartily agree, Nancy. No sense carrying those "heavy" Euro back home! I have been known to do some major last-minute damage at the Hermès/CDG boutique, as well, all nearly rationalized under the heading, well, what would I do with these Euro when I get home? Works every time.
DeleteAnd, I'm always amazed at how many big boxes of Laduree macarons are carried on to the planes bound for the US. I've actually heard an Air France flight attendant grumbling about having to find room for the precious and fragile treats. I'm curious about the Marie Antoinette tea. Is it sweet or spiced or just wonderful black tea? I may have to try some.
MT, as usual your travelogue is beautiful and very envy inspiring. All I can say is that I am already on countdown for the April visit if I can hold out that long!
And, thank you for featuring our "home boy," Ralph. I don't think he's going to rest until the whole world is living the Ralph Lauren style! But, he certainly does it well. I think I might have to have lunch or dinner with him next spring.
As always, thank you for so generously sharing your lovely life and equally lovely Paris with us.
Love to you and the Swans,
Jerrine
Jerrine,
DeleteThe Laduree Marie Antoinette tea is fabulous! It's a blend of China, India and Sri Lankan black teas, with orange, pineapple and rose petals with aromas of orange, honey, lemon, lime, mandarin and grapefruit. With a little sugar...heaven!
Dear Nancy,
Deletethank you for this tip, I will try Marie Antoinette next time I am in Paris. Usually I stock up with Mariage Freres which I am addicted to. And the black tin looks so faboulous in my kitchen shelf haha always in style...
Nice Weekend,
Rita
Nancy, it sounds fabulous and so exotic. I'll be sure and try it. Thank you!
DeleteAnd, Rita, I'm with you on those Mariage Freres black tins - so chic. They're in my kitchen, too, but I do happen to enjoy the tea, as well, especially the French Breakfast.
Enjoy Venice, Nancy, and a nice weekend to you, Rita. It will be close to 100 where I am, so I think a weekend with the AC running full blast is in order, unfortunately. It's not very good tea weather either - unless it's iced.
Best,
Jerrine
Nancy and Rita--
DeleteYou two are fueling my tea addiction! Now I will have to hunt down Marie Antoinette and Mariage Freres because both sound so lovely!
And of course my dear swan sister Jerrine has to bring up macarons!
While my style is improving with this blog, it's also possible my waistline is expanding at the same time!
Best wishes to all for a lovely weekend--
Greta
Re: Tea
DeleteNancy, Marie Antoinette sounds great. I like black or green teas without flavouring, or with some lemony taste. Mariage Freres has one, I drink in the summer called The sur le Nil. It is a lemon flavoured green tea.
Jerrine, last time I had French Breakfast in my hand but decided to take Earl Grey French Blue instead, which turned out to be very delicious.
Jerrine have you seen the lovely tea cups at Mariage Freres? I would so like to have the glass samowar, I find it would be such a nice thing to have in the salon, but I am the only one drinking tea in the family. Greta, you have to look for it. The whole store looks charming like a very old pharmacy.
Oh well, my money tree....
Have fun in Italy
Rita
Expanding waistline, Greta. Nah! Afterall, we Swans have to munch daintily to keep up the energy to flap our wings and swish our pretty little tails. And, macarons have no calories, right? I think we have to make them the official Swan treat.
DeleteNo, Rita, I have not seen those lovely MF tea cups, and I'd better keep my eyes tightly closed and not look for them! The glass samovar sounds wonderful. You need to have it - the tea would taste even better.
All the best to you both, my tea-loving friends,
Jerrine
PS - I wear Un Jardin sur le Nil in the summer and love it, as it's so refreshing. I'll definitely have to add that tea to my list. Green tea with lemon sounds lovely.
To all the Ladies here who like tea, i can highly recommend another French brand called Betjeman & Barton. Some of my favourite teas are: Rose, C'est une belle histoire, Une journée à la campagne and Il était une fois Nöel. Warm hugs to all, Manuela xx
DeleteBetween Mariage Freres and Citi Pharma, my shopping time in Paris will be spoken for! Hopefully next fall I will be there with family (this trip has been rescheduled several times and I am becoming very impatient!).
DeleteRita, Earl Grey French Blue sounds lovely! I'm also interested to try cream of Earl Grey, which I've heard is a wonderful treat. Macarons everywhere, natch, and a scarf at you-know-where!
Then I'll be off with a baguette under my arm to sit on the grounds of the Eiffel Tower. I'm much too freaked out by heights to go up in the tower, but I can definitely enjoy the view from the ground, as long as I have plenty of snacks!
I can just see the man at customs shaking his head at me...as I lug through a suitcase full of beauty products and tea. Because you know by this point, I will have eaten all the macarons!
Happy Monday, y'all!
Greta
Greta,
DeleteI wish I could be with you to munch on that baguette and assault CityPharma. Here are a few tips regarding the later (I'm sure you can manage the baguette on your own.):
Tip No. 1 - Go early in the a.m. By mid-morning, it is an impossible zoo! The aisles are cramped, and getting through them can be a challenge, but it's great fun. The product offering is vast and the prices miniscule, and you just might spot Catherine Deneuve buying her moisturizer. She lives in the neighborhood and often shops there.
Pick up two of the little plastic shopping baskets at the entrance and put one inside of the other until needed. One dinky little basket is not enough!
Tip No. 2 - They do not accept Amex, but they will take Visa. And, they'll also fill out a VAT refund receipt for you if you buy something like $120 worth. $120? That's for amateurs - I can pass that mark in about 5 minutes!
Tip No. 3 - They are closed on Sunday, but they open early every other day. Here's a link to their website, with address, map, and even photos of the exterior and interior, so you can study up in advance. http://www.pharmacie-paris-citypharma.fr/
Tip No. 4 - Go with an idea of what you want to get. A list is even better. It can be overwhelming if you go in cold. There are several assistants on the floor (they're dressed in white lab coats), and if you're lucky, you can find one who speaks a bit of English. If not, take out your list and point to the product you're looking for. This method works very well. I resort to it every time! Avez-vous ce? Point, point, point.
Don't worry about customs. I loaded up my suitcase and a carry on, which I then checked, and they never even looked inside. And, as there was no chocolate, the Atlanta Hartsfield sniffing security beagles could have cared less. Qu'est-ce, pas de chocolat? Phooey.
And, if that baguette is too heavy, don't worry. There are several snack stands right at the base of the ET. You don't think they'd miss that opportunity, do you! Also, replenish the macaron supply at Laduree/CDG before boarding. This is useful and quite possibly a necessity in case the inflight meal is a disaster.
Best,
Jerrine
Greta,
Deletehope you found some nice things in Italy, I can always find more than one something nice and useful. Even I would buy the Fiat 500 just because it looks so cute (after I have rented one, I am cured and stick to Mercedes, I am not the youngest haha).
Cream of Earl Grey - never tried but sounds well. On my wishlist is Paris Marais and one other one called Casablanca, green and black tea á la menthe and bergamot.
I was never on the Eifel Tower due to the queque and like you, enjoy the view from the ground.
Macarons and baguette are great idea, may I suggest some champagne and maybe cheese? You can buy small plastic cups (once I took them from the Hotel room). Not really in style but fun.
For Citipharma Jerrine gave great tips. You also can check the videos of Lisa Eldridge on YT. She made some with suggestions for french pharmacie beauty products. Thought the products could be reformulated since then...
Jerrine Aaaaa! thank you, was often wondering why some tourist buy 30-50 Macarons at one time. Airplane meal - so clear now!
Ladies, have a lovely day
Jerrine--
DeleteYou are such a blessing to me! I don't know what I'd do without your fabulous suggestions! I'll study the website and be very prepared, and I love the idea of going early. I have the idea I'll be pointing a good bit in Paris, as my high school French is very, very rusty!
This is supposed to be a family trip, and we'll discuss it when we're all together in Salt Lake City this fall. But if it falls through, I just might go by myself! I'm not getting any younger and I want to enjoy Paris!
As for the inflight meal, is it ever not a disaster? My last trip home from London, I made the mistake of ordering pasta with the white sauce, and halfway through Gone With the Wind, I thought the Yankees were attacking me!
I'd be lost without your guidance--it seems you are an expert Parisienne!
xoxox--Greta
Expert? No, Greta, far from it. I'm just enthusiastic, and I so love Paris.
DeleteI wish I could be with you to tour guide your first visit to CityPharma. I swear; I want to die and be buried in that store! Let me know if you'd like a list of some of my favorite finds.
And, I suspect that you've learned your lesson about ordering pasta on planes. (No slamming the Yankees, though. I'm one of them!)
Rita, I adore Lisa Eldridge. Not only is she beautiful, she's very talented. I've learned some great tips from her. And, she has the most wonderful British Shorthair Cats.
Best,
Jerrine
Jerrine and Rita--
DeleteYou all CRACK ME UP! Now, instead of diligently banging away on my computer, I'm scrolling through Lisa Eldridge You Tube videos. My editor thanks you for my unproductive day!
Rita, I'm just giggling at the thought of you smuggling plastic cups from your hotel room to drink champagne at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. Well, how else are you supposed to drink it? Swig it from the bottle like a philistine? (Note how I say that with such disdain, as if I've never, ever done it myself)
And, I'm not a green tea enthusiast, but your description of the Casablanca tea tempts me! Bergamot rocks!
Jerrine--YES, I would love a list of your favorite CP products. I know as long as I follow in your well-shod footsteps, I cannot go wrong!
Ladies, thanks for the smile this morning. It's been a challenging week, but you've added some much-needed sunshine!
xoxox--Greta
Hee, hee, Lisa will thank you, too, Greta. She's quite wonderful and very down to earth. Now that she's the artistic director for Lancôme, she doesn't post as many videos as she used to, but when she does, it's always a treat. I would like to steal her cats, though.
DeleteLe list - okay, here goes. (Note to MT: If I've high jacked your lovely blog, please feel free to delete this post and chastise me severely. Of course, you will have to answer to Greta.)
1. Bioderma Crealine H2O Solution Micellaire Peaux Sensibles, Tres Seches. Whew, what a name! This is my favorite cleanser of all times, and it has kind of a cult following at this point. It takes it all off very gently and does not strip the skin, and since you don't rinse, there is no water to disturb the PH balance of your skin, and your face is never left feeling tight and dry. Just moisten cotton pads and wipe gently until the pad is clean. The micelles somehow grab onto the dirt and impurities and whisk them away. It comes in several formulations - for normal or oily skin, but I like the one that's made for sensitive, dry skin (translates as "old" skin!).
It sells for about $30 a bottle here on Amazon, but CityPharma bundles it in a two-pack for around 15 Euro. (I try to buy six double packs whenever I'm there. Plastic bottles - yea!)
This stuff just disappears from the shelves, so head to the Bioderma area first and grab what you want, or you could be disappointed. Yes, it's heavy to lug around, but it's worth it, and you can always use the basket full of it to knock pesky shoppers out of your way (not that I've ever done that, or have I?) They also make it in small travel-sized bottles, which are great. I am not particularly fond of their facial cleansing cloths, though. Sorry Bioderma.
On my first visit to CP, I thought it was some sort of sports drink - stupid me!
2. While you're in the Bioderma area, look for their Hydrabio Lait (moisturizing cleansing milk). I buy the Peax Sensibles Déshydratees formula. Yes, I cleanse my face twice. This makes me feel very French, and it gets the skin pristinely clean. I use the lait with a Clarisonic cleansing brush (fabulous little device) and then finish up with the Crealine water. There is no need to follow up with a toner, as you haven't used actual water. The lait comes in several formulations, as well.
3. Bioderma Hydrabio in both Riche and Légère formulations. These are great moisturizers; the Riche is wonderful if your skin is very dry, e.g. winter skin, and the Légère is lighter and great for the summer. They're very inexpensive, and the plastic bottles are lightweight, which is important when you're hauling back half the store in your suitcase.
4. Another Bioderma favorite is the White Objective Pens to combat those nasty brown age spots. It's the only product that actually works for me. They're small and again, very lightweight. I usually stock up with half a dozen, as I know my sister will beg for a couple.
Oh, oh - I'm going to have to post this in sections, as I got a red warning - "cannot be accepted. Must be at most 4,096 characters."
To be continued . . .
Okay, Part Deux (I may have lost my place, my apologies):
Delete2. While you're in the Bioderma area, look for their Hydrabio Lait (moisturizing cleansing milk). I buy the Peax Sensibles Déshydratees formula. Yes, I cleanse my face twice. This makes me feel very French, and it gets the skin pristinely clean. I use the lait with a Clarisonic cleansing brush (fabulous little device) and then finish up with the Crealine water. There is no need to follow up with a toner, as you haven't used actual water. The lait comes in several formulations, as well.
3. Bioderma Hydrabio in both Riche and Légère formulations. These are great moisturizers; the Riche is wonderful if your skin is very dry, e.g. winter skin, and the Légère is lighter and great for the summer. They're very inexpensive, and the plastic bottles are lightweight, which is important when you're hauling back half the store in your suitcase.
4. Another Bioderma favorite is the White Objective Pens to combat those nasty brown age spots. It's the only product that actually works for me. They're small and again, very lightweight. I usually stock up with half a dozen, as I know my sister will beg for a couple.
5. Another moisturizer I like is Embryolise Lait Crème Concentré. It's been around forever, but it's a wonderful moisturizer and makes a great make-up base, as well. Comes in a lightweight, unbreakable tube. It is ridiculously inexpensive but wonderful.
6. Caudalie Radiance Serum. This is great to use in the morning, and it really does brighten the complexion and makes it look more, well . . . radiant. It's expensive here in the US but very, very reasonable at CP.
7. While you're nosing around Caudalie, look for their Resveratrol Lift Eye Lifting Balm - a great eye cream that helps tone the eye area, reduce puffiness and dark circles, which I always seem to have. It's packaged in a small, lightweight tube. (See a pattern developing here?)
8. Another great eye cream, which can also be used around the lip area is Nuxe's Nuxuriance Yeux et Lèvres Eye and Lip Global Anti-aging Cream. I use it every morning, and it works like a charm and doesn't irritate.
9. While we're on the subject of Nuxe, their Huile Prodigieuse multi-purpose dry oil is a favorite. You can use it on the face, body, and a bit rubbed between the palms of your hands effectively tames the frizzies, too. I combine it with standard Aveeno body lotion after a bath. CP packages two bottles together at a special price, but you can buy single bottles, as well. Unfortunately, the bottle is glass - boo Nuxe!
10. Nuxe Rêve de Miel lip balm. This is readily available here in the States now, but instead of $20 for a little jar, it's about 5 Euro at CP. It's the only lip balm I've used that stays matte and allows for immediate lipstick application. It comes in stick form (two tubes to a package), too, but I love that little pot!
11. Caudalie Soin des Lèvres lip balm is lovely, too. It smells divine. I love the Caudalie hand crème for the same reason (packaged in an easy-to-pack tube and a travel/purse size, as well.)
Part three to follow.
Part 3:
Delete12. Ducray Ictyane (yes, a very strange name) Crème Emolliente Hydratante Peaux Sèches Body Lotion (can also be used on the face). I love this. The bottle is quite large, but at least it's plastic, and it has a handy pump dispenser.
13. Collosol Cleansing Milk. This is a great alternative to the Bioderma Lait, and it's only 5 Euro. I think this is in every French woman's arsenal. You have to look for it in the baby products area, though. Do not ask me why.
14. La Roche Posay Anthelios XL Extreme SPF 50 sunblock. This is the best - no white residue, and you can put make-up base over it without that annoying "pilling" you get with so many sun blocks. This comes in a double pack at CP, too.
15. La Roche Posay Redermic with 1% Retinol. Most anything with Retinol makes my skin go crazy, but I can definitely use this one without irritation. I think this is the priciest product I buy at CP at 27.50 Euro, but it sells for $57 in the States.
16. And finally, my can't live without nail product-Herôme Nail Strengthener in the "Strong" formulation. If you have problems with splitting or peeling nails, you will love this. It alleviates those problems, and your nails grow long and strong. I use it as a base coat.
Okay, that's it. I've tried other things, but for me, these are some of the best. (Rita can chime in with her favorites, which, of course, I'll then have to try, as well.) See why I have to go with an empty suitcase?
This must be the longest response ever to appear on this lovely blog. Please don't hate me, dearest MT.
Here's to CP and less challenging weeks, Greta,
Jerrine
PS - There's a whole second floor that stocks all kinds of holistic medicines, vitamins, aromatherapy products, etc., but I usually can't stagger up the steps with my heavy baskets. I have been known to go up there first, though, and stock up on Doprolimane (I know I didn't spell it correctly), a great French/European pain killer, a la Advil. Heck, even French aspirin is much more chic than ours.
Jerrine, Greta, here I am
Delete(MT hope it is ok)
Bioderma, you can take nearly everything. Prices are low so if its not good for your face you can always use up for your feet or hands.
Beside the Micellaire - me too always buy the pink one for sensitiv skin which is, Jerrine sorry to correct you means NEVER old, but delicate pah! Sometimes they have a deal means 2 bottles with 1 liter (somewhat 1/4 gallon?) go for 10 €.
Hydrabio thumbs up
Never tried the whitening pens but used the serum for mature (?%¥₩÷×+) skin in the winter in a red bottle and found not bad for 10-15 €. It is calked Matriciane Multi Defense.
All of the sun creams are great, I am using it since years. They have some colored one, for the winter I took Photoderm AR 50 light and in the summer I use Photoderm Max spf 50+ teinte clarie which is a little bit darker so my skin looks like sunkissed. But I never use foundation. If I woul I am somewhat 20 in MAC.
Also very good is Bioderma Sebium. I have normal skin and take Sebium AKN for the nose area 2x a week to fight the black heads. Has a very little peeling effect but and very mild, no irritation.
Ladies, have to to wash my hair and then will come back.
Hair washed....
DeleteThe cleansing milk was OK but I do not like how it feels on my skin. I have tried Hydrabio as well as Sensibio, but both were nay. I like the oil cleansing and now Bioderma launched an oil douch Atiderm Huile de Douche, I will try to wash my face with and if it does not makes my eyes red and itchy, will maybe a yay. I know some beauty addicts who take the shower oil for the face, so please do not judge me :-)
For brown spots I highly recomend Caudalie Vinoperfect Masque together (important) with Vinoperfect Serum Anti Eclat. It is pricier but worth.
If you are willing to spend more bucks check Teoxane. Is a swiss company for filler and stuff plus for after surgery products. I have used and highly recomend the Radiant Night Peel and Teoxane RHA Serum. The price for the serum at CP is something 90-100 €. The last time had to look for it for hours because the placed it down near the ground in the hope tourist won't find it grrr. Ha they do not know me. So better ask if you want it.
By the way I would like to warn you, do not think you can jump in and finish like 30 minutes. Calculate at least 1 hour and send the family better to Disney world or in a nearby coffee.
Ok back to the Beautys.
I also like La Roche Posay, or LRP.They have eau micellaire in ampoulles which is great if you are not at home. Called Toleriane Ultra Demaquillant visage et yeux sans anything bad.It contains 30 ampulles. I cannot remember the price, LRP is pricier then Bioderma, but I like it because is so travel friendly and allows me more room in the suitcase....
Also from RLP is the Cicaplast Baume B5. Is a small tube with 15 ml like a lipstick, but goes long for anything ichy, no matter where face, body....
I also like the brand called Darphin. I have used their line for sensitiv skin and also the one for older ($%%_%/^) called Predermic. Darhin is also pricier but they have a travel collection from each of their lines so you can try if you like it. The travel bags are for 10-15 € if I remember correctly.
I like to wander on the 2. floor also to check all the miracle products for slimming, never ageing whatever.... :-) For me it is part of the fun plus there is calmer than on the ground floor.
Ok, for so long, I have to work on my email to Jerrine who is waiting for (?) since days....
If iI have forfotten something, I will come back.
Rita
I had no idea I was in the presence of such greatness--I am surely what my husband calls 'amateur hour' next to your boundless wisdom. Wow is my only response. I had no idea a Mecca like this existed--and at those prices!
DeleteTo be sure, I did recognize the name Caudalie (see, I'm not a complete philistine!) and was thrilled to hear you say it's cheaper at CP.
Rita and Jerrine, you are both so kind to share your lists with me! I have to figure out a way to print this out and put it in my Paris folder.
Any suggestions on how I explain to my husband why beauty product are falling out of my suitcase when he fetches me at the airport? Ah well, he's the original absent-minded professor, so as long as I can divert him...
You are both so generous! xoxo
Greta
Wow, Rita, you truly are the queen of beauty. I bow down to you! And, now my CP list is even longer, as I've had to add a few of your suggestions.
DeleteWould three suitcases be unreasonable? I could start my own French beauty boutique right here in the States.
Best,
Jerrine
Exist it does, indeed, Greta, and you will love it. I wouldn't miss it for the world - it's always on the top of my must-do list in Paris. The selection and prices are definitely enticing, but experiencing it is just as satisfying. There's just something about the mayhem!
DeleteThe experts all say that the best, most effective and most progressive beauty products come from either France or Japan, and I believe that. If you look at most French women's faces, whether young or older, they all have seem to have lovely skin and wear very little make up. (I guess all those French make-up companies must ship most of their products to America! You hear that, Dior? We're on to you.)
Just tell your husband that you're going to start a store like I am. Seriously, though, just tell him how much money you're saved. They tend to pay attention to that.
And, every time you use one of your French pharmacy finds, you'll also remember being in Paris, and that's just a little added bonus.
Love to you,
Jerrine
PS - Try highlighting and copying the text you want to save and then go to Word, open up a new document and click paste. That should work. If it doesn't, let me know, and I'd be happy to mail you a copy of my list. I had to save it in Word and then paste it in here, as my internet connection has been up and down for the past six weeks. Yikes, I'm tearing out my hair by the handfuls.
Greta, Jerrine,
Deleteyou are so kind, my face is looking now more like a tomato. *mwah*
Greta is UPS or one other courrier an option?
Agree with Jerrine, to name the savings plus to point out that I have stocked up for 6 months, helped in the past. I also always pick up something for him like body lotion or so.
Korean beauty products are also a big hit, but for me there are not always easy to find and to see the huge ingredients list is so annoying. However there is a french-korean company called Erborian, if you are interested in their products. I have bought a CC cream in a trial size but was too orange for my skin.
What I really like are korean cotton pads. They are the best in the world, silky, soft, no fuss. I only know Missha Premium feel silky cotton puff and this great. If you have the opportunity, try.
I better finish now.
Thank you all and for Mai Tai having patience for our beauty talk.
Hugs,
Rita
Darling swans, how I loved reading every word of your chat! Your comments should be printed and distributed as 'The Real Paris Bible'. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and tips so generously, you ladies ROCK xxx
DeleteDear MaiTai, what a wonderful travelogue! The bar at Ralph's is exquisite, and I love all the blues. Thanks for introducing me to HZ, I'm listening to the Gladiator medley right now! I was lucky to get the Zara jacket, which I love although none of my scarves go with it. So I get to learn something new about accessorizing! You are so funny, missing your train for that ritual glass of champagne! I like your style.
ReplyDeleteMuch aloha,
Fifi
Love the picture with the Zara bomber and LMdZ, you ROCK! xx
DeleteDearest Fifi, missing the train was slightly less amusing than you might think.. it was the last one that went that day! I felt pretty silly!! (note to my defence.. the time table changed that day) Wonderful to be bomber twins with you, I think your gorgeous pink Zambèze would be perfect with it!
ReplyDeleteI am sure you can turn any misadventure into an adventure, dear MT! And you are so right about the Zambèze. I'll send a photo for the next collage. :-*
DeleteOh, how I love strolling along with you in Paris!
ReplyDeleteAlways in sync and style, dear MT. You pics are top notch as always, and indeed, prove a beautiful postcard!
Thank you, once again, for taking us along!
Have a wonderful weekend! Mwahs, T xx
No stroll would be the same without my darling friends. Biggest mwahs and have a wonderful week! xx
DeleteDear Mai Tai,
ReplyDeleteYour blog post is like a postcard from heaven. How wonderful to hear the theme tune from 'Gladiator' live at a Roman theatre.
Best wishes,
DK
Thanks so much for the lovely comment. It was a very beautiful moment indeed..
DeleteBesides the fact that you had a last cup of champaign in this nice train station, how did you do if it was the last train!?
ReplyDeleteReturned to an hotel to Paris for the night?
Amitiés
Yes, it was too far to walk home ;-) Worse things can happen!
DeleteHooe once again that comment left.....
ReplyDeleteDear Mai Tai,
ReplyDeletethank you for your postcard from Paris. I like the left bank very much and happy to stroll through the streets. They are so charming. Last time it was after I have finished Patrick Modianos book Dans le café de la jeunesse perdue (did not found the english title) and I can tell it was a really new way to see the buildings, metro stations etc. after reading this novel.
Thank you again for your tip with Laduree. I usually close my walk at Citipharma (aaaah beauty addicts paradise) and a short walk away is a small Pierre Herme Boutique where I treat myself with 3 macarons (one has to be Isphahan). Next time I will visit Ladure for a Cup of tea for sure.
Hope you have time to relax after busy days/weeks and enjoy your Weekend. Happily waiting for a new post and the PJs,
Greeting also the ladies under the olive tree and in the pool
Rita
Citi Pharma - oh my gosh, absolutely my favorite stop in Paris - even better than Hermès/FSH!
DeleteI bring basically an empty suitcase, and it goes home full of Bioderma miccelar cleansing water, masques, serums, creams, pots of lip balm and anything else that looks enticing. Everything is such a bargain when compared with prices here in the States.
It's so much fun but just as crowded as FSH, unfortunately. However, it is, as you say, a beauty addict's paradise.
Rita, I think we need to travel together. We have the same likes, even down to the best place in Paris for macarons and even the particular flavor.
Best,
Jerrine
PS - It's too hot here to be under an olive tree or in a pool. Murder!
Rita,
DeleteFor ever in love with Ispahan...;-))))
Catherine.
Jerrine, my secret twin?
DeleteYeah Bioderma rocks. Since all the beauty bloggers spread the word, it is so full, I am waiting for the day when they close temporary due to the mass of crazy women buying tons of creams. I arrive usually with a prepared shopping list.
If you tell, that you stock up on Diptyque candles, when in Paris, particulary Heliotrope, I will be lost.
Just let me know when you arrive, I need 3 hours with the train and I am in Paris.
Catherine: salted caramel is also not bad :)
Happy sweating .... 95 F or 35 C here
Rita
Ha, Rita, I'm already working on my City Pharma list, and my sister will send hers with me, too, unfortunately. Therefore, may need two suitcases! As much as I'd love to fill the other half of that suitcase with those lovely Diptyque candles, I'm afraid that I wouldn't be able to lift it if I did! I will definitely sniff Heliotrope the next time I wander into the shop, though. I bet it's divine. They are the best candles.
DeleteI will be in Paris in late April, and it would be wonderful to get together, so we'll have to work on that. How I would love to be just three hours from Paris by train - oooooooh.
Best,
Jerrine
Rita, my email address is jerrineastanbury@gmail.com. Please feel free to write, and we'll see if we can work out a date to meet . . . in Paris (just not at City Pharma, lol. We'd never find one another or would be trampled in the process).
DeleteJerrine
You ladies have been separated at birth! Rita, when I read your comment it had 'Jerrine' written all over it.. it's exactly what she does when in Paris! Catherine, let's go and join them for an Isphahan!
DeleteZimmer put on a great show, and how nice to see it in such a glorious setting (Wembley was somewhat less glorious!). Beautiful post, many thanks.
ReplyDeleteCouldn't agree more, the show was fantastic!
DeleteDearest MT,
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking us again with you dans ce Paris et ces endroits que l'on aime tant!
I just closed my eyes and had a magical moment listening HZ with Czarina Russell.....
Catherine xx
Dearest Catherine, if we'd all be in Paris at the same time, there is no way we would miss each other! We love all the same places <3
DeleteChère Maitai
ReplyDeleteOui ce printemps et ce début d’été et beaucoup moins agréable pour Paris surtout a cause des gréves et des inondations circulation très perturbée mais Paris sera toujours Paris romantique et spécial surtout rive gauche hum pas très originale c'est mon quartier comme tu le sait j'adore laduré Bonaparte plus calme qu'aux champ j'aime prendre une coupe ou un thé Marie-Antoinette dans ce lieu reposant
Par contre je ne connaissait pas l'artiste que tu est allée voir au théâtre antique merci de nous l'avoir fait connaitre dans ce lieu prestigieux sa devait êtres superbe J'adore ton nouveau look
Passe un bon weekend Bises
Myriam
Ce debut d'été était vraiment un peu pertubée, mais comme tu dit, Paris reste toujours belle et fabuleuse. Hans Zimmer est un de meilleurs compositeurs de musique de film...je suis sure que tu connais ses mélodies!
Delete:-) I love touring Paris with you, dear MaiTai!
ReplyDeleteA couple of your recommendations are already written down in my little black book (yes, I have one ;-) ) and one of these days I'll take the time to spend more then one day in Paris and will follow your steps.
And having a glass of bubbly at the Train Bleu will be a MUST!
Thanks for sharing all these lovely places with us.
Have a beautiful and very HAPPY Sunday :-)
So happy you enjoy the jaunts, dearest HappyFace! Hope a trip to Paris is on the horizon one day soon, have a most wonderful and fun time!
DeleteBeautiful photos, my Darling!
ReplyDeleteNext time I am in Paris I must try Ralph's. It looks wonderful! Love all the blues.
Ladurée, rue Bonaparte is so cosy and quiet! A perfect place for lunch <3
Thank you for taking us along with you, my Dear. It is always a pleasure! Have a wonderful remaining Sunday. Biggest hugs, Manuela xx
You'll love Ralph's, darling Manuela, it's such a perfect summer spot.. a real oasis of tranquility! Thank you for coming along with me, re-visiting with you ladies always makes every trip extra special. Have a wonderful week xx
DeleteI need your precious advise Mai Tai. I want to buy a Picotin and I do not know which colour to buy. My SA said blue/orange with gold. I look at your photos and you always in more neutral colours. Which would you say is more elegant?
ReplyDelete