SEE & DO
Chateau Vincennes
— After a 43 million euro renovation, the Chateau opened in 2007. Of course there’s work still to be done on a building that dates back to the 11th Century. Many a famous aristocrat was imprisoned in the dungeon. You can organise a guided tour of either 45 min or 1.15min to understand its rich history. Several French ministries also operate from this building.
Open from May to September 10am – 6pm
M: Château de Vincennes
en.chateau-vincennes.fr
1 ave de Paris T : 01 48 08 31 20
A day in Montmarte
— This district still retains a bohemian feel and excitement of the days when artists, writers and painters lived and worked. There’s a superb walk around the 'Cimetiere Montmarte' start at 20 avenue Rachel - and don’t miss the view from the 'Sacre Coeur'. If you stay in the area dress casual chic and take a break at the über hip ice bar - Hotel Kube in the Passale ruelle.
Below, Easter at the Sacred Heart, Montmarte
www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com
Guy Martin - Atelier
— OK These 2-3 hour - French cooking workshops are in French but it could be a bit of a giggle. Learn from one of the Masters(Grand Vedour & Sensing), the books, the TV shows now your can discover a few little secrets from Guy Martin.
Situated in a beautiful Hotel Particular building, we would be happy to organise a workshop for you if you cannot translate the site.
You can choose from preparing cocktail food, cuisine for one, or how to pick and cook the best produce in season. There's also a 'Petits Gourmets/Gourmands' workshop which is sure to include chocolate.
www.atelierguymartin.com
35 rue Miromesnil 75008 t: 01 42 66 33 33
7th Annual 'Nuit Blanches' don't miss 2009
— For 48 hours, all museums, transport and festivals are free to the public. This is when Parisians don't sleep but gather to enjoy all the events. This year's theme is 'An invitation to travel', major railway stations such as the Gare de l'Est and Gare de Lyon will be transformed into an sensory contemporary art experience. Churches will also be transformed with lighting inviting all to discover their beauty and the art within.
4 and 5 October, all night, all day, all over Paris
www.parisinfo.com
Le Crazy Horse Saloon
— This famous Paris show that has been running since the 1950’s. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I totally enjoyed the light show, dancing, scant costumes (OK maybe a feather or two) and precise choreography. Its not a ‘spectacle’ like The Lido or Moulin Rouge. The stage is small and we were seated less than five feet away from the performers however it added to the authenticity of its original intention ; an intimate ‘caberet’.
www.lecrazyhorseparis.com
12 ave George V, 75008 t: 01 47 23 32 32
Musée d’Art Modern de la Ville de Paris
— You will find this gallery in the ‘Palais de Tokyo’. Dedicated to modern 20th Century art there are over 8000 different pieces.
M: Iena or alma Marceau
www.v1.paris.fr
11 ave du President Wilson t: 01 53 67 40 00
Fête de la Musique -- Reggae to classical
— The streets of Paris become ever more lively with musicians and their preferred instruments, taking to the streets for live and often impromptu performances. All over Paris (and France), musicians play their favourite tunes to an appreciative crowd. As many of the streets are closed due in part to makeshift stages, it might be wise to walk around ‘the city of lights’. Main events are always held at the Place de la Republique and Parc de la Villette. There is a formal program I’m told. 1 June to 30 June 2009
www.fetedelamusique.culture.fr
Jazz Festival
— Each year from early to mid September, (2-14 Sept 2008) the 'Parc de la Villette' comes alive with jazz musicians from all over the world. You can see the full program online and tickets are available at most FNAC centres.
www.cite-musique.fr