Happy Bastille Day

On July 14, 1789 the French Revolution began with the storming of the Bastille.  The storming of the Bastille prison was a symbol of French citizens rising up against the oppression of the Monarchy.  The only French monarch to ever be executed by guillotine was Louis XVI in January 21, 1793. The revolution continued eventually giving away to the First Republic.

This monument marks the sight of the Bastille.  

The French have celebrated Bastille Day since 1880.  And since 1918 a military parade has marched down the Champ-Elysees.

Arc de Triomphe

The French Revolution marks the uprising of the citizens against an oppressive monarch government.   Today citizens enjoy a free Republic.  Paris is an amazing city full of beautiful art, music and architecture.  It is evident that free people are creative people.  Parisians demonstrate a true joie de vivre (joy of living)

Viva la France!!

Hotel de Rohan Duemenee

The Hotel de Rohan Duemenee is stunning example of the wonderfully preserved Renaissance architecture in the Le Marais quarter.  This hotel is actually 4 buildings with a park in the middle, known as the Place des Vosges.


Once known as the Palace Royal, ground was broken in 1605.  The surrounding area, including the park is referrred to as  Park Tournelles.

Check back to the blog for more pictures of this amazing place.  We loved it so much, we stopped back often to marvel at this area, and join other Parisians who relaxed in the park.  

Sources:


http://www.paris.fr/loisirs/maisons-de-victor-hugo/paris/l-hotel-de-rohan-guemenee/rub_5932_stand_12763_port_13289


http://marais.evous.fr/Hotel-de-Rohan-Guemenee.html

Packing for Paris

I am having the type of dilemma I thought I could only dream about.  I am leaving for a two-week trip to France next month.  I am spending one week in Paris and one week on the French Rivera.  I am going to meet my boyfriend who has been working out of the country for the past few months, and I am so excited to see him!  I am so thrilled to be spending time with mon amour in one of the most romantic places in the world.  Tres bien!

But here is my dilemma, what to pack?  I have checked the weather, and it is going to be in the high 50's, which is bone chilling for a Florida girl like me.  So I am thinking sweaters that I can layer, my treasured cashmere coat, and my short black trench coat.  He tells me we will be staying in a hotel that is near the Notre Dame, and we can walk to just about all the sights.  I am thinking flat boots and flats paired with leggings and skinny jeans.  Maybe a few pairs of heels, just because I cannot imagine life without them.  

For a bit of color, I am going bring a few scarves.  Planning on packing a few dresses, some sweater dresses and some for going out.  Florida girls don't wear stockings under their dresses, but I am assuming in France that is a big no-no.  Speaking of no-no's, I am also going to leave anything blingey at home.  I don't want to look like a tacky American tourist!  

Calling all fashionistas I need your help!  Please leave your comments and suggestions!