Frenchie Friday - March 15, 2024

Bonjour, mes amis!

As the calendar pages flutter towards the greenest, shamrock-studded day of the year, I couldn’t help but nudge you with a cheeky little thought: While the world dons emerald hues and toasts to St. Patrick, might the French be having more fun?

Now, don’t get me wrong. St. Patrick's Day is a day of lively parades, delightful green attire, and, of course, the clinking of pints in the spirit of Irish tradition. But let’s whisk our imaginations over to France for a moment, where the art de vivre turns every day into a celebration of life’s pleasures.

This weekend, as the Irish jigs echo through the streets, the French are quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) reveling in their own joie de vivre. From the sun-kissed vineyards of Bordeaux to the chic terraces of Paris, there’s a certain je ne sais quoi in the air.

Here’s why the French might just be having more fun:

1. The Wine over Whiskey Debate: While a good Irish whiskey warms the heart, the French argue that a glass of vin rouge or blanc does more than just warm; it sings of regions, grapes, and centuries-old traditions. And let's not forget the cheese pairings!
2. Fashion Forward Festivities: The French might not all be wearing green, but they have an undeniable knack for turning heads with their effortlessly chic style, even on a casual stroll down the boulevard. Who needs a leprechaun hat when you have a perfectly tilted beret?
3. Cultural Riches: On any given day, the French are celebrating their rich tapestry of history and art. Museums, galleries, and theaters offer a feast for the senses that rivals any St. Patrick’s Day parade.
4. Culinary Delights: While the Irish have their hearty and beloved dishes, the French culinary scene is an endless festival of flavors. From flaky croissants and savory coq au vin to delicate macarons, every meal is a reason to celebrate.
5. The Power of "Non": There’s a certain freedom in the French lifestyle - the ability to say "non" without guilt. This weekend, while many are guzzling green beer, the French might be sipping a café au lait at a leisurely pace, embracing life's moments as they come.

So, as we tip our hats to St. Patrick, let's also raise our glasses to our French friends, who remind us that life is not just about the big celebrations but the everyday moments that we savor and cherish.

I’m curious, mes chers amis, how will you embrace the French art de vivre this St. Patrick’s Day weekend? Will it be a quiet evening with a glass of Bordeaux, or perhaps an attempt at making your own French onion soup? Whatever it is, remember, the essence of celebration is not in the grandeur but in the joy we find in simple pleasures.

P.S. Don't forget to wear a little green, just in case you stumble upon a leprechaun or two. After all, blending traditions can be a delightful adventure of its own!

One of my best blogging buddies is Jody of Ireland Family Vacations. We have known each other forever and she loves Ireland as much as I love France. She goes there a lot too. She is the go-to person if you are thinking about a trip. Every year at this time she runs a special on her Ireland travel planner, so I am sharing it with you. Save 17% with code PADDY17 through March 20.​

Of course, if you are looking for a Paris Travel Planner, I've got your covered!

Published this week:

• NEW: Beyond the Stay: Discovering the Charm of the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel in Winston-Salem​
• NEW: Gift Guide for Spring​

Last chance for St Pat's Day Gifts My spring gift guide is going live next week, so grab my suggestions for March 17th before it is too late!

Links I Love...

Links to interesting stories found around the interwebs during the past week. If you find something about Paris, France, or French lifestyle and culture that you think I should share, reply to this email and let me know!

Paris:

• ​The most luxurious places to stay in Paris​ [The Times]
• ​“Paris is always a good idea”: Antoni Porowski on his dream foodie destination, incredible London hotels, and his in-flight snacks of choice​ [Conde Nast Traveler]
• ​The 18 Best Bakeries in Paris [Conde Nast Traveler]​

France:

• ​France's Most Prominent Young Chef Is Now at the Helm of Dining at Marlon Brando's Resort in French Polynesia​ [Travel & Leisure]

French Culture, Lifestyle, Beauty & Decor:

• ​Lily Collins On Gratitude Journals, Pre-Filming Facials And French Girl Beauty​ [Elle]
• ​I have spent my career searching for the best red lipstick in the world—and I've just found it​ [Marie Claire]
• ​Step Inside Our Petit Déjeuner With Sézane—And Shop My Picks for Spring​ [Camilles Styles]
• ​Visit Le Marais As Paris’ Iconic Waiter Race Returns​ [Forbes]

Pour Le Weekend...

Photoshoots, house cleaning, and finally, started to prep for our trip to Paris and Portugal, we leave in 3 weeks!

How about you?

Bon Weekend!

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Andi Fisher Misadventures with Andi