Confession:
There is one thing I don't like about Paris.
I still haven't seen all of it.
Every step I take, every pilgrimage I initiate,
the goal remains the same:
Take in one more street than last time.
Most of us know we need to venture, as they say, "off the beaten path"
but if you really want to get to know Paris, you need to broaden your horizons beyond the most tourist-celebrated parts of the city.
Draft a strategy to discover new neighborhoods and the locals who inhabit them.
With every last ounce of energy, I bend over backwards
to get to know and embrace this wonderful city.
OK, so it's a bit kooky but this is an affair of the heart, the one spot
on this planet that exhilarates every nerve ending in my body.
With every border crossing and each new street I manage to unveil,
that commitment and my love of Paris is redoubled.
That's why I especially enjoy my make-believe world of House Hunters Paris.
No, I don't actually ring up Adrian Leeds to initiate a true house hunt -- although
that's a frequent fantasy many of us relish -- but quite literally pound
the pavement of residential Paris neighborhoods in search of
my "perfect" home -- and encourage you to do the same.
Quiet residential streets are a sort of museum art form in and of themselves.
"You'll never find a rainbow if you're looking down."
Charlie Chaplin
There is one thing I don't like about Paris.
I still haven't seen all of it.
Every step I take, every pilgrimage I initiate,
the goal remains the same:
Take in one more street than last time.
Most of us know we need to venture, as they say, "off the beaten path"
but if you really want to get to know Paris, you need to broaden your horizons beyond the most tourist-celebrated parts of the city.
Draft a strategy to discover new neighborhoods and the locals who inhabit them.
With every last ounce of energy, I bend over backwards
to get to know and embrace this wonderful city.
OK, so it's a bit kooky but this is an affair of the heart, the one spot
on this planet that exhilarates every nerve ending in my body.
With every border crossing and each new street I manage to unveil,
that commitment and my love of Paris is redoubled.
That's why I especially enjoy my make-believe world of House Hunters Paris.
No, I don't actually ring up Adrian Leeds to initiate a true house hunt -- although
that's a frequent fantasy many of us relish -- but quite literally pound
the pavement of residential Paris neighborhoods in search of
my "perfect" home -- and encourage you to do the same.
Quiet residential streets are a sort of museum art form in and of themselves.
"You'll never find a rainbow if you're looking down."
Charlie Chaplin
So exactly what is the ideal Paris neighborhood?
The truth is, I have no idea; it's all in the eye of the beholder.
The fun lies in creating a fantasy world of hope and dreams.
As long as it's somewhere inside the twenty
arrondissements of Paris, I'd be happy just about anywhere.
But since we're chasing rainbows today, I may as well point out a few front-runners.
Rue Crémieux is anything but your typical Paris block
of Haussmannian architecture.
Its kaleidocscopic, pastel houses are downright cheerful for a city
routinely described as "classic", "majestic," imposing."
Located in the colorful 12th arrondissement,
rue Crémieux's cobbled pedestrianized path is filled with fetching
little idiosyncracies and hallmarks courtesy of its lucky inhabitants.
Imagine a rainbow of multicolored homes, adorned with terracotta pots filled
with everything from flowers to tomatoes budding beneath fun trompe-l'oeil
designs that reflect the offbeat imagination of this unforgettable street.
I often think the word charming is one of the most overused words in the English language but in the case of rue Crémieux, you cannot say it enough.
But don't stop here; you're on a roll.
The truth is, I have no idea; it's all in the eye of the beholder.
The fun lies in creating a fantasy world of hope and dreams.
As long as it's somewhere inside the twenty
arrondissements of Paris, I'd be happy just about anywhere.
But since we're chasing rainbows today, I may as well point out a few front-runners.
Rue Crémieux is anything but your typical Paris block
of Haussmannian architecture.
Its kaleidocscopic, pastel houses are downright cheerful for a city
routinely described as "classic", "majestic," imposing."
Located in the colorful 12th arrondissement,
rue Crémieux's cobbled pedestrianized path is filled with fetching
little idiosyncracies and hallmarks courtesy of its lucky inhabitants.
Imagine a rainbow of multicolored homes, adorned with terracotta pots filled
with everything from flowers to tomatoes budding beneath fun trompe-l'oeil
designs that reflect the offbeat imagination of this unforgettable street.
I often think the word charming is one of the most overused words in the English language but in the case of rue Crémieux, you cannot say it enough.
But don't stop here; you're on a roll.
Is this a fashion spread in the making or are the residents really this beautiful??
Searching for your Paris dream home is as delicious as
discovering your favorite bistro in Paris.
Couscous today, duck confit tomorrow?
That's right, your vision may change as often as your appetite
so let's head over to another perfect course
just across from beautiful Parc Montsouris.
Square Montsouris is much like that delectable first bite of foie gras.
Silky, full-flavored, earthy and rich -- a true indulgence.
Who could be so fortunate to live in such a state of grace?
In the 1920's, these homes were built or occupied by many notable artists.
This is Montparnasse, after all, champion of the Paris creative community.
Famous names like Corbusier, Claude Bouscau, Roger Bissiêre, Amédée Ozenfant and Tsuguharu Foujika are all
associated with this aesthetic neighborhood.
My legs literally felt weak when I first laid eyes
on this little eat-your-heart-out patch of sighs.
Its striking mix of red brick, terracotta and half-timber combined
with a stylish comingling of competing artistic styles -- a bit art deco,
a bit Tudor, a bit mountain villa -- that all come
together in one jaw-dropping house hunt.
Quiet as the countryside, the irresistible blend of mosaics,
stained glass and greenery will win your heart in a landslide.
We tiptoed through the neighborhood in order to
respect its peaceful perfection.
A national treasure, I hope Square Montsouris' dignity
is preserved for many generations to come.
discovering your favorite bistro in Paris.
Couscous today, duck confit tomorrow?
That's right, your vision may change as often as your appetite
so let's head over to another perfect course
just across from beautiful Parc Montsouris.
Square Montsouris is much like that delectable first bite of foie gras.
Silky, full-flavored, earthy and rich -- a true indulgence.
Who could be so fortunate to live in such a state of grace?
In the 1920's, these homes were built or occupied by many notable artists.
This is Montparnasse, after all, champion of the Paris creative community.
Famous names like Corbusier, Claude Bouscau, Roger Bissiêre, Amédée Ozenfant and Tsuguharu Foujika are all
associated with this aesthetic neighborhood.
My legs literally felt weak when I first laid eyes
on this little eat-your-heart-out patch of sighs.
Its striking mix of red brick, terracotta and half-timber combined
with a stylish comingling of competing artistic styles -- a bit art deco,
a bit Tudor, a bit mountain villa -- that all come
together in one jaw-dropping house hunt.
Quiet as the countryside, the irresistible blend of mosaics,
stained glass and greenery will win your heart in a landslide.
We tiptoed through the neighborhood in order to
respect its peaceful perfection.
A national treasure, I hope Square Montsouris' dignity
is preserved for many generations to come.
Perhaps every day feels like a birthday if you're lucky enough to live in
Cité des Fleurs, a gorgeous slice of Paris' 17th arrondissement.
One very famous birth was once celebrated in this village-like neighborhood. Catherine Deneuve - yes, la Deneuve hereself, was born on this tranquil little rue.
It's only fitting "the most beautiful woman in the world" would hail
from one of the most beautiful streets in Paris.
The village-like atmosphere is both elegant and inviting
though at times Cité des Fleurs is gated and closed.
The pedestrian street is photo-shoot ready yet
asserts an aura of family and warm familiarity.
It's all in the details, darling!
Created in 1847, the estate homes, though singular and clearly defined
by independent style, came with their own set of "subdivision" rules.
Homeowners had to plant at least three trees in each yard and crown their pillars with ornate vases in the 19th century version of keeping up with the Joneses.
Cité des Fleurs makes for a delightful walk on a weekend afternoon.
Take a break from the noise and stress of the outside city and feel the calm.
Perhaps this is where the term "bed of roses" was invented....
at the very least, you may think you catch a lovely
whiff of Ms. Deneuve's signature Chanel scent.
Cité des Fleurs, a gorgeous slice of Paris' 17th arrondissement.
One very famous birth was once celebrated in this village-like neighborhood. Catherine Deneuve - yes, la Deneuve hereself, was born on this tranquil little rue.
It's only fitting "the most beautiful woman in the world" would hail
from one of the most beautiful streets in Paris.
The village-like atmosphere is both elegant and inviting
though at times Cité des Fleurs is gated and closed.
The pedestrian street is photo-shoot ready yet
asserts an aura of family and warm familiarity.
It's all in the details, darling!
Created in 1847, the estate homes, though singular and clearly defined
by independent style, came with their own set of "subdivision" rules.
Homeowners had to plant at least three trees in each yard and crown their pillars with ornate vases in the 19th century version of keeping up with the Joneses.
Cité des Fleurs makes for a delightful walk on a weekend afternoon.
Take a break from the noise and stress of the outside city and feel the calm.
Perhaps this is where the term "bed of roses" was invented....
at the very least, you may think you catch a lovely
whiff of Ms. Deneuve's signature Chanel scent.
I met a very handsome gentleman on the street of Cité des Fleurs -- Salut!
Beauty cannot replace the ugliness that occurred here during WWII -- Gestapo raid and ensuing death of Resistance heroes.
Encompassing just two little streets that form a triangle,
Square des Peupliers packs a powerful punch.
Ivy covered walls and uneven cobblestones make this tiny neighborhood
worth the detour deep into the 13th arrondissement.
Iron gates, lush landscaping and pretty porch coverings will propel the
green-eyed devil in you with house-hunter-envy so make sure you revisit
the scripture verse about coveting thy neighbor's house.....
Seriously, in an arrondissement normally described as modest and/or
working-class, this is a neighborhood that pours on the pretty.
You'll feel a bit tipsy with delight.
Check out the pretty doorways and itty-bitty details of each
home so lovingly tended by these city dwellers.
Square des Peupliers is an outdoor museum of expressive style.
You may be tempted to cancel your hotel reservation and pitch a tent....
Square des Peupliers packs a powerful punch.
Ivy covered walls and uneven cobblestones make this tiny neighborhood
worth the detour deep into the 13th arrondissement.
Iron gates, lush landscaping and pretty porch coverings will propel the
green-eyed devil in you with house-hunter-envy so make sure you revisit
the scripture verse about coveting thy neighbor's house.....
Seriously, in an arrondissement normally described as modest and/or
working-class, this is a neighborhood that pours on the pretty.
You'll feel a bit tipsy with delight.
Check out the pretty doorways and itty-bitty details of each
home so lovingly tended by these city dwellers.
Square des Peupliers is an outdoor museum of expressive style.
You may be tempted to cancel your hotel reservation and pitch a tent....
Remember that silly old game show "Let's Make a Deal"?
Monty Hall would challenge the players to choose what's behind door #1,
door #2 or door #3 and you always held your breath, eager that some hopeful schlub would get lucky, winning a new car or something really over-the-top.
I still believe.
Whichever door you choose to open, when you're in Paris,
you're going to get lucky.
When it comes to Paris fantasies, I'm with Kermit the Frog.
These fairytale villages of my dreams are as real as my blind faith in Paris.
"The Rainbow Connection"
from "The Muppet Movie"
Please sing in your best Kermit the Frog voice!
"Live the fantasy, live the dream.
Why are there so many songs about rainbows
And what's on the other side
Rainbows are visions
But only illusions
And rainbows have nothing to hide
So we've been told
And some choose to believe it
I know they're wrong, wait and see
Some day we'll find it
The rainbow connection
The lovers, the dreamers, and me
Who said that every wish
Would be heard and answered
When wished on the morning star
Somebody thought of that
And someone believed it
And look what it's done so far
What's so amazing
That keeps us stargazing
And what do we think we might see
Someday we'll find it
The rainbow connection
The lovers, the dreamers, and me
All of us under its spell, we know that it's probably magic
Have you been half asleep?
And have you heard voices?
I've heard them calling my name
Is this the sweet sound
That called the young sailors?
The voice might be one in the same
I've heard it too many times to ignore it
It's something that I'm supposed to be
Someday we'll find it
The rainbow connection
The lovers, the dreamers and me
La da da di da da dum da duh da da dum di da ohhh"
Songwriter:
PAUL WILLIAMS
Published by
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.,
Walt Disney Music Company, Universal Music Publishing Group
Read more: Muppets - Rainbow Connection Lyrics | MetroLyrics
I hope you track down your very own special rainbow in Paris.
No doubt, there's a field of dreams made just for you inside the City of Light.
Hope to see you there!
Monty Hall would challenge the players to choose what's behind door #1,
door #2 or door #3 and you always held your breath, eager that some hopeful schlub would get lucky, winning a new car or something really over-the-top.
I still believe.
Whichever door you choose to open, when you're in Paris,
you're going to get lucky.
When it comes to Paris fantasies, I'm with Kermit the Frog.
These fairytale villages of my dreams are as real as my blind faith in Paris.
"The Rainbow Connection"
from "The Muppet Movie"
Please sing in your best Kermit the Frog voice!
"Live the fantasy, live the dream.
Why are there so many songs about rainbows
And what's on the other side
Rainbows are visions
But only illusions
And rainbows have nothing to hide
So we've been told
And some choose to believe it
I know they're wrong, wait and see
Some day we'll find it
The rainbow connection
The lovers, the dreamers, and me
Who said that every wish
Would be heard and answered
When wished on the morning star
Somebody thought of that
And someone believed it
And look what it's done so far
What's so amazing
That keeps us stargazing
And what do we think we might see
Someday we'll find it
The rainbow connection
The lovers, the dreamers, and me
All of us under its spell, we know that it's probably magic
Have you been half asleep?
And have you heard voices?
I've heard them calling my name
Is this the sweet sound
That called the young sailors?
The voice might be one in the same
I've heard it too many times to ignore it
It's something that I'm supposed to be
Someday we'll find it
The rainbow connection
The lovers, the dreamers and me
La da da di da da dum da duh da da dum di da ohhh"
Songwriter:
PAUL WILLIAMS
Published by
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.,
Walt Disney Music Company, Universal Music Publishing Group
Read more: Muppets - Rainbow Connection Lyrics | MetroLyrics
I hope you track down your very own special rainbow in Paris.
No doubt, there's a field of dreams made just for you inside the City of Light.
Hope to see you there!
There's plenty of green space here, enough for both Kermit the Frog and me.....
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