My Favorite Parisian Things (October'25)

I always promise myself that I would like to go to Paris more often. It is just two hours away by train, but our everyday life pulls me in and I get absorbed in all the things here that I love, and it is difficult for me to stay away from.

But a visiting friend in Paris was a big cause for me to get organized and spend a few days in the city of light. Here are the highlights, and my favorite things there for October'25.

Madame X with the dress strap re-painted and sitting firmly on her shoulder

John Singer Sargent Exhibit at the Musee D'Orsay (till January 11, 2026)

Before the exhibition I was familiar with only one painting of this artist - the famous "Madame X", and the scandal surrounding it. The scandal happened over one hundred years ago, because nowadays a socialite with one dress strap falling over her shoulder would not make the news. Then, it created huge waves, nearly damaging peoples' reputations. The portrait, now with the dress strap repainted to sit firmly on the lady's shoulder, is the main part of the exhibit. But the show is rich with other amazing paintings and sketches of the artist. A must go.

A portrait of another socialite from the times of Sargent, Madame Ramon Subercaseaux

"Bambou" Restaurant

I know when one goes to Paris, one seeks out French food. But for variety, one needs to branch out. And whenever an entrance leads from an almost hidden entryway, which then opens into a garden like courtyard, it already puts you in an anticipatory mood. "Bambou" serves excellent Thai food, in an exquisitely designed space, the service is impeccable, and the dishes amazing. I recommend.

Bambou Paris, 23 rue de Jeuneurs, 75002 Paris

Coulée Verte René-Dumont

One of the beautifully designed garden spaces on the Coulee Verte

Modeled after the New York's High Line (or was it the other way around?), formerly a railway, now a path among trees and flowers, leading from the 12th arrondissement to place de la Bastille. While walking in calmness and greenery, you can glimpse the upper floors of the buildings nearby. We walked the distance for close to two hours, without exerting ourselves. At any moment one can leave the pathway and take public transportation to where they wish, or have a coffee at numerous cafes at the street level. The walk is a welcome change of pace from the usual hum of the city.

Next edition of My Favourite Things is coming next month!

***I am not affiliated nor do I get compensated by the brands I mention***