PARIS. Never did I think, at such a young age, that I would have the privilege of fulfilling one of my most desired dreams. Ever since I was little girl, Paris has always been a city that I have wanted to visit. I don’t know where the interest came from, but something about it has always had me gripped.
Now, I had always assumed that I would travel to Paris after I had left home. Perhaps with a future friend, or partner, it had always seemed like something “Adult Jasmine” would experience. However, I did forget that I had the most extraordinary mother in the world who, of course, decided to surprise me and take me on my 16th birthday. The moment I found out, I was lost for words. Although, it was a moment that allowed me to realise how fortunate I was. It made me truly appreciate how wonderful my parents actually were and I could not express how grateful I was. Initially, I couldn’t even say ‘thank you’ because I burst into (happy) tears, which then caused my mum start. Yes, it was an emotional time for everyone however after I overcame my emotions, the only thought running through my head was, “What am I going to wear?!”
My mother and I had actually been shopping the weekend before, so I had some new, unworn pieces in my wardrobe. But this was more than just some weekend away, it was Paris! I could only take the best of the best.
Book: Anthropologie // Bag: Prada
1) Monsieur Bleu (20 Avenue de New York, 75116 Paris, France)
This was a perfect lunch place, to enjoy a light, healthy meal from which you could see the Eiffel Tower. One side of the restaurant was almost entirely made from windows, therefore it seemed quite open and the sun was able to easily get in.
Book: Anthropologie // Bag: Prada
I wanted to be cool but comfortable on the first day, especially if we were flying that morning. I decided to tie the top so that it met the edge of the skirt, simply making it my own. The trainers were definitely a good idea, considering it was our first day and I was adamant to visit all of the “touristy” sites.
2) Yeeels (24 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, France)
Yes, with all three e’s. This was a very cool, trendy place for dinner. The service was great, food was delicious and all in all we had a wonderful night. It’s only been open for about a year therefore it wasn’t very well known amongst our friends and family but it is definitely the place to be on a Friday night.
Book: Anthropologie // Bag: Prada
Our trip to The Louvre was delightful. I have always been one to admire art and this was definitely on my bucket list. For me, art has always fascinated me because I have never been an artist myself, and to watch others create such masterpieces is incomprehensible. I am stunned by the way in which it is created.
3) Costes (239-241 Rue Saint Honoré, 75001, Paris, France)
The interior design of this restaurant was very traditional and classic, however the courtyard in the centre modernised the place and created a peaceful ambience.
4) Matignon (3 Avenue Matignon, 75008 Paris, France)
What a beautiful way to spend our last evening. The atmosphere was incredible, they had a DJ entertaining the guests and the staff were especially accommodating, considering we changed our table three times (oops). My mother had told them we were here to celebrate my birthday and they did not let it slip. Whilst waiting for our desserts to arrive, about 10 waiters and waitresses surrounded our table with sparklers and confetti, cheering and congratulating me on my special day. It was a wondrous experience.
Ultimately, Paris was indeed a fascinating city filled with astounding architecture, spectacular restaurants and beautiful shopping areas. I had forgotten how elegant the French language was, as a Spanish and German student, I couldn’t understand a single word. In fact, this trip to Paris inspired me to learn French, and hopefully become fluent one day. This was an extremely difficult challenge to face but I wanted to pass with flying colours.
In the words of Leonardo da Vinci, “It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.”
