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Tour Paris over the Holidays: 9 Special Things To Do!
TOUR PARIS OVER THE HOLIDAYS
9 SPECIAL THINGS TO DO AND SEE!
(and 1 extra!)
1. Tour Paris to see the decorations and trees. Each Arrondissement (neighborhood) puts up specially decorated trees in strategic locations. Get an idea of which arrondissement and which trees you'd like to see and go on a hunt for your favorites!
2, Oysters and champagne by the riverbank. Every holiday season, on the lower level embankment of the Seine River, by the Eiffel Tower, there are Champagne and Oyster vendors...check them out. What an experience to sip Champagne by the riverside, feast on oysters (or some other gourmet treat) and to do so all in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. Even better --wait til it's glittering at night!3. Pastry and hot chocolate tastings. Take an afternoon stroll and taste the famously rich hot chocolate of various famous and lesser known hot chocolate vendors. Angelina's is of course the most well known --They are famous for having both white and dark hot chocolate. I think this pairs just perfectly with their famous Mont Blanc pastry. That chestnut and meringue confection is not too rich to pair with their thick hot chocolate --yet it holds its own. Or, if you have the chance, purchase the "mix" offered by Pierre Herme to take home to make. What a treat! 
4. Christmas markets. Visit the Christmas markets. Each of them are different. Some have more foods/wines. Some have more gifts and some specialize in art or antiques. All have warm spiced wine and gourmet goodies and gifts. We like to find the special artisan vendors who have come to Paris from the countryside. They carry high quality and unique products. Hint: Many vendors in street markets, the Christmas ones included, will occupy the same space year after year --so once you find someone you love, you are likely to find them easily the next time!
5. Skating in Paris...in front of City Hall (where Rodin sculpted) or even in the shadows of the Eiffel Tower. Need we say more?
6. Notre Dame for Christmas mass. Even if you are not Catholic, this is certainly an interesting experience.7. Christmas dinner --Culinary treats abound in Paris over the holidays. Whether your tastes run to casual cafes and a glass of red wine, or something more whimsical or even something traditionally formal.....The gastronomic treats are endless. Truffles, scallops, roast pheasant, veal and duck, special cheeses infused with truffle or aged for many months until tiny bits of crystal appear --adding texture and punch --bouches de Noel, and other traditional desserts--in fact, there are 13 traditional desserts for Christmas. Our last few Christmas lunches and dinners in Paris included Champagne, foie gras, oysters, scallops, truffles, roast leg of lamb, truffle stuffed chicken breast, specialty breads, homemade desserts and fabulous wines from Burgundy and Chateauneuf du Pape...I'm stuffed just writing about these feasts. Make sure you don't miss out on any of these wonderful treats!
The gastronomic treats are endless. Truffles, scallops, roast pheasant, veal and duck, special cheeses infused with truffle or aged for many months until tiny bits of crystal appear --adding texture and punch --bouches de Noel, and other traditional desserts--in fact, there are 13 traditional desserts for Christmas. Our last few Christmas lunches and dinners in Paris included Champagne, foie gras, oysters, scallops, truffles, roast leg of lamb, truffle stuffed chicken breast, specialty breads, homemade desserts and fabulous wines from Burgundy and Chateauneuf du Pape...Remember, this is red wine season --if such a season exists. Too hot for many reds in the summer, and white's just won't warm you up or stand up to that hearty winter fare! So, your best reds will be now!I'm stuffed just writing about these feasts. Make sure you don't miss out on any of these wonderful treats!
8. Concerts. Whether it's Gregorian chants, or classical concerts, there are wonderful concerts held in the area churches and museums. Imagine listening to chanting in a Medieval building, or a choral group in a 1000 year old church. Check into it!9. Museums....That's right. Visit the museums. What a great time of year to walk the city and come in to warm up (though last year it was about 55 degrees in mid December) while looking at world class art. We specifically take our clients through several of the smaller museums. Spending the day weaving in and out of these museums, mixed with the Christmas lights, and the early sunset, really makes for a magical adventure.
If you have any ideas of your own to share, or if we can answer any questions, contact us at wendy@blisstravels.com
October in Provence and Chateauneuf du Pape
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Join us on this one of a kind trip to the wine region of Châteauneuf du Pape. We'll explore delicious wines, dine in wonderful authentic locales, visit beautiful villages and take amazing photos
Our low-key approach is like having a friend with special expertise traveling with you as you explore these spellbinding destinations. As a small group, you will have personalized attention and the level and type of activity that you prefer. No prerequisites to join this trip! Your desire to see and do things that most tourists never get to experience is all you need! Whether you are a novice or expert --photographer or wine lover -- this trip is something special. (Don't believe us, look at our 
Just sit back and enjoy the ride. We'll help you navigate the beautiful landscape and ensure that you will see and experience things that only an insider could see and do.
For more information and a full itinerary, please visit our website at 
Bliss Travels | 3 Hemlock Court | Princeton | NJ | 08540
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Tour France: Mediterranean Vacations in a Day!
OTour France: Mediterranean Vacations in a Day!On commence avec le déjeuner, biensur.Start with lunch. Views, sunshine, and a collection of colors.
Lavender, newly planted by a friend to "garnish" the best table in the house! Thank you Florian and Eric for another unforgettable experience--one a group of us will experience in late July and early August.(Join us in our last room of a small group --10 people --July 28-August 4 along the Mediterranean and in Paris. This trip was not advertised, and there is one room. Contact us for details asap. 609 462 6213 or wendy@blisstravels.c0m)
Of course, after lunch the Mediterranean beckons. It is pure Bliss!
Interested in our last room in July? Details below.(July 17/18-23 Provence/ParisA small group all inclusive trip to one of Provence’s most beautiful areas, with exclusive access to private activities and events. Provencal markets, lavender, Roman ruins, Cote du Rhone wines, special dining, Medieval villages, art, castle, hikes… and plenty of independent time. ONE ROOM.
Tour France: Summer Colors Provence & Mediterranean
Tour France: Summer Colors
Provence and the Mediterranean. It's the most colorful, tasty time of year. Vibrant is the word that best expresses the summer. Long, languid, yet energizing. Enjoy the photos below. Taking them was Bliss!
Dancing in the streets...for every holiday, summer festival and so fun to do and watch!
Clear blue, peaceful...
A favorite place to promenade and watch the street performers.
dining on the mussels, beachfront on the island
a bientôt! Hope to see you this summer. Contact us for more information
Tour France: A Typical Day in Provence with Bliss Travels
Tour France: A typical day in Provence with Bliss Travels.For the photographers, there was an early morning shoot. The rest of us had a leisurely breakfast or even slept in. 
We all met in the garden, and then drove to see the poppy fields, where Anthony helped people capture the beauty.
After our shoot, we visited a local village and friends we adore.
For lunch we shared specially prepared warm goat cheese salads or soup au pistou and then had an omelette made with farm fresh asparagus (thank you Lionel --our favorite chef in the village --who always has local eggs and something special for my perennial omelette!)
After lunch there was sightseeing, walking, gallery hopping and, yes, more photography --yours truly even modeled --and learned there is a "walk", a "look", and, of course, not to smile too much!! For our next photography trips, there will be an option to do portraiture and we will use models.
But, ever the guide, I continued to give clear direction to all who asked!
We finished the evening with a wine tasting and meal in a private cellar --candle lit, with a menu to order. Pas Mal!
In case you were wondering --the blue in the sky is not touched up. That truly is the color!
We hope to share this and more with you on our next trips. July and August festivals are just around the corner, as is our fall photography, foliage and Chateauneuf du Pape trip! Contact us now! Wendy@blisstravels.com
Tour France: What is Bastille Day in Provence?
Tour France: What is Bastille Day in Provence?Bastille Day --July 14, is the day the peasantry stormed the Bastille (Paris prison). The revolutionary spark was presumably lit by Marie Antoinette's suggestion about the starving peasantry to "let them eat cake." Of course, we'll never know her real intent. And, truthfully, by the time the Bastille was "stormed", there weren't many prisoners left. However, the day has become a major celebration in France, much like July 4th is for us in America.Paris is lit up. There are parades, military services and fireworks over the Eiffel Tower. It's truly a sight. But, we find our Bliss in Bastille Day in Provence.If you tour France and have the chance to visit Provence on Bastille Day --you can find:Stupendous special markets with special street fairs and fun fair attached to them
Group meals with Provencal specialties that entire towns attend (and you can too)
Running of the bulls through the streets
Bull fights (but not the kind that hurt the bulls)Outdoor "toasts"Parades
We have one such trip planned --and it's going to be a once in a lifetime --probably 6 person --visit to Provence --where we spend a weekend doing all of these things--as well as wine tastings and a stay in the Luberon --the most beautiful part of Provence.Summer Vacation in Provence: 5 Tips for Shopping in Provencal Markets
Summer Vacations in Provence: 5 Tips for Shopping the Provencal Market 
The markets of Provence are world renown. They are bustling, beautiful and bursting with mouth watering produce, cheeses, meats, breads, olive oils and wines. Just to name a few specialties. And, once your hunger and thirst have been quenched, you will notice flowers, linens, jewelry, artisan products, gifts, clothing and more. 
A perfect vacation day in Provence begins with a market tour. And just wandering the markets can be great. (Though we also like to send clients on a hunt for specific picnic or cooking class ingredients –part of the fun is learning to find and purchase.) How do you decide which of the cheese stands has the best cheese? How do you find the best baguette or artisan breads? Below are some tips for getting the most out of the Provencal markets.
- Tips for buying Produce. Buy local! French law requires that all produce be marked not just with its category I, II, III (rating), but also its origin. I always stress buying and eating seasonally. I also believe local is better. So, first, look for the country. If it doesn’t say France, don’t buy it. Then look for the specific area of France. Most people think that a sign that says “Provence” is a sign indicating “locally grown”. And, to a degree, it is. But, if you look carefully at the market produce stands, some will not just say Provence –but will say the town’s name. That’s when you’re at a truly local (and probably organic) stand. That’s where you want to look to buy first. (And, if you know anything about the micro climates/towns, you’ll be able to decide whether you prefer strawberries from Carpentras or Aix-en-Provence –because you’ll know that they each have their own flavor –much the way wine from North Burgundy is different from wine from Southern Burgundy –even if they’re both Pinot Noirs.)
- Tips for buying cheeses. There are great cheeses from all over France. And certainly, importing cheese does not impact the quality the way it does for produce. Still, there are small local producers whose products are high quality, specially made, and cannot be found elsewhere. In Provence, this means goat cheeses.(There are no cows in Provence –so there are no cows milk cheeses made there..) The fresh goat cheeses are local. So try them. Look at what else they carry. If the cheese monger has a wide selection –he is likely to be an expert -- a knowledgeable collector of a wide variety of cheeses. If they carry one thing –just goat cheeses –then they are probably producers, and can provide you with a unique artisan product. You should look for one of these extremes. They indicate special expertise, in two different ways.
- Tips for buying Meat and Fish. Look and smell. Fish should look glossy and the eyes should look good. There should be no smell. Meat should look moist and fresh and also have no smell. It should be clear they are being kept cold. If you smell something, or it looks “tired”, this is not what you want. (Believe me, you know more than you think.)
- Tips for buying oils, jams and other “bottled and canned” products. The same principle applies. Look for a small artisan producer. Find a family business. Focus on small quality production. Look for handwritten labels (but proper canning procedure.) And taste. If you can’t taste, don’t buy. Artisan producers are very proud of their products and as such, offer tastes. They are convinced that you will buy it if you taste it. That’s the culture. So, if they won’t allow you to taste, that’ telling you something.
- Wait in line! If there are three vendors selling the same type of product –and there usually are –choose the one with the longest line (of locals). Why? Because these vendors come every week, have the same physical location at the market each time, and become as well known to market regulars as your local grocery is to you at home. If there’s a long line (of locals), there’s a reason.
5 Reasons Why July 10-20 Are the Best Summer Weeks in Provence!
The best time to go to Provence. People always ask me that. The answer --well, apart from "anytime" --might not surprise you. For summer time, the best time is July 10-20. And here are my top reasons:1. Bastille Day in Provence! Paris is Paris. And Bastille Day is quite an event. But, in Provence, in certain towns and small cities, they have the running of the bulls through the streets. Imagine sitting at a cafe, having a rose, or coffee, and watching the French cowboys herd bulls through the Medieval streets. The boys and young men jump the barrier and chase the bull trying to hold onto his tail. And there are bull fights (the kind where the bull is not hurt.)
2. Fireworks over a castle or ancient fort. When the night sky lights up a castle and then the fireworks pop up over that, that might even be better than the Eiffel Tower. (This is a hard choice to make!)
3. It's prime festival season. There are wine festivals, village fetes and all manner of special celebrations. Even a melon festival! That means there are parades, special markets, special tastings and lit up village squares where you dance the night away!
4. The best beach weather! The Mediterranean is great in July. The weather is great. The excitement level is wonderful. The sky is blue. And there are street shows to watch almost every evening -as you have your dinner outside looking at the sparkling sea.
5. Lavender. Need I say more? You are assured of lavender all July --and first half of August (depending upon the weather that season. And you are assured of lavender related festivals and special events!
Of course, we love Provence almost all year round! It's Bliss!
Paris & Luberon (Provence) See Who Rates it Top Place to Visit
It occurred to me the other day that all the experts and large publications rank vacations and destinations. So, I decided to do some research. And, you know what? Paris, Provence and the French Riviera dominate every list and every writer's mind.Here is how SIX experts rate France in 2012 (I had to narrow it down or I'd be writing all day!)1. The New York Times writes about Provence regularly --several times a year, waxing poetic about its incomparable beauty and superior dining and lifestyle.2. US Travel & News Report Paris #1 Best Vacations in 2012.3. National Geographic Luberon (Provence) Top 50 Tours of a Lifetime in 2012
Spring in Provence: Bliss Travels Newsletter
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OUR NEWSLETTER!
Spring and Summer fun in Provence and along the Mediterranean. We have great dates and special itineraries available. Tour the Provencal markets. See the Bastille Day fireworks. Witness the running of the bulls. Ancient villages, impressionist art, wineries and so much more. Book your trip now. 
Top 4 Reasons to Visit Provence in May!
4 Reasons to Visit Provence in May.Of course, there are many more than 4 reasons. But, let's just look at the top 4!
1. Beautiful Spring Scenery! May is the time for poppies, cherry blossoms, almond blossoms, and all sorts of spring flowers.
2. Space and warmth! ...You beat the crowds and enjoy the season's first picnics!
3. Everything is new. Spring vegetables are appearing in the markets.
4.It's Bliss! Experiences most tourists don't have. Exclusive access events and opportunities. Do what you want --at your pace. Everything custom designed with ease! May 15-21, 2012
Read what our clients have to say!
Photo (re)Blog by Anthony Bianciella: May in Provence
We're reblogging a great description of one of our trips. Rick Sammon also blogged about Anthony's trips with us!
Photo Tours - An Insider is Key!
5 Reasons Why Burgundy Once Again Surpasses Bordeaux!
Well, it's official. Burgundy, the Gold Coast wines of legendary quality, are once again the preferred wines of wine lovers and experts alike.
Need further proof of Burgundy's prominence in the world? Just look at the below results of the recent auctions, as reported by the Wine Spectator:
Move Over Bordeaux: Burgundy Steals the Show at Asia Auctions
Recent sales lead top auctioneers to wonder if Bordeaux may be toppled as the premier blue-chip collectiblePeter D. Meltzer
Posted: November 29, 2011What’s top on the buyers' wish lists? ....all of which have achieved record prices in recent sales. Vintages in demand include 1985, 1990, 1993, 1996, 1999, 2002 and 2005.As a category, the 102 Burgundy listings tracked by the Wine Spectator Auction Index rose 16.42 percent from the third quarter of 2010 to the third quarter of 2011....
There are many reasons behind Burgundy’s escalating popularity. Limited supply contributes to Burgundy’s appeal. “The quantities of great Burgundies on offer are so small that we never get much to sell,” noted Sotheby’s wine CEO Jamie Ritchie. “By value, in 2010, only 17 percent of the wines we auctioned were from Burgundy. The realization that these wines are extremely scarce has created a new-found appetite.”
This is what we've been saying for years! That's why we go to Burgundy. On our most recent trip, we focused on 1999, 2005 and 2009 wines. Yep, that's right! And they were amazing! The 2007's and 2008's needed time and breathing space.
What to Plan, Pack, Wear for Valentine's Wedding in Paris!
VALENTINE’S DAYThe most romantic day of the year. Propose? Marry? Just escape from it all? Meet the person of your dreams? We’re doing our version of Romantic Bliss over Valentine’s weekend in Paris….What could be better than a romantic hotel, breakfast in bed, private chocolate and wine pairing from a world class chocolate maker, a star studded (Michelin, that is) dining experience customized to the occasion, a saunter through the best that Paris has to offer….And then the moment….What would your moment be?
HOW TO PICK A DRESS FOR A DESTINATION WEDDING.Pick something simple and elegant, or over the top stylish. Pick something you can pack easily so that your trip is effortless. Bring two pairs of shoes. One for the ceremony and dinner, and the other to walk around Paris, so you can get those cool photographs without also getting blisters! Think about what you’d like to wear to your dinner. Elegant, easy to travel with, sophisticated are the Paris buzzwords.We arranged for a bridal shoot for Nicole Miller Philadelphia in Paris two years ag0, and her dresses work very well. Contact us if you’d like an introduction to Nicole Miller Philadelphia!HOW TO PACK FOR A VALENTINE'S DAY WEEKEND IN PARIS:Paris is usually not to cold. Typical weather in February should be about 40 degrees. This past Christmas was unseasonably warm. 50 plus! So, maybe this February will be as well! Whatever the weather, bring a coat, stylish scarf, boots, thin thermal socks (great for keeping feet comfy with all the walking. Pack a pocket umbrella too. I suggest great skirts and knit dresses (everyone was wearing them this season). And, most importantly, pack a small carryall bag to bring home your special purchases! You don't want to run out of room!
WANT TO BRING FAMILY AND FRIENDS?Of course they can come! And we can entertain them. They will sightsee and wine and dine while you and your fiancé decide upon your final plans. They will attend your ceremony, whatever meals you like, and celebrate all over Paris with you…If you like. We arrange for a special itinerary for your loved ones so that they have as memorable a time as you.
Think of these images while you decide whether you want to experience true Bliss!
3 Myths & Some Advice on Weddings and Elopements in Paris!
So, you want to have your wedding in a place imbued with timeless romance....What could be more romantic than Paris (or Provence)? If you can think of something, let me know!
Myth 1: Destination Weddings are more expensive than weddings at home:
The average cost for a wedding in the United States is $26,542.00. This doesn't include the honeymoon. The average honeymoon price is between $5,200-$10,000 for international travelers (depending upon whether you choose a luxury or standard honeymoon).Destination weddings offer you the opportunity to combine wedding and honeymoon in ways that are very cost effective....And allow you to make your special day a truly unique and memorable experience. Elopements to Paris range from $10,000 to $20,000 and include the ceremony, reception, hotel, meals and "a honeymoon".And, where else can you get a background filled with jaw dropping beauty and world class sites? Champagne on top of the Eiffel Tower? Check! Romantic photos by the Seine river? Check! French pastries and great wines? Check!But, it's not just about money! It's about the most important day of your life.
Myth 2: Destination Weddings are more complicated than weddings at home:And Destination weddings present wonderful opportunities to make your wedding day about you and your love for each other. 
People often think that these events are impossible and difficult to plan because of the distance. Not so. At Bliss Travels, it's simple. We do everything for you (other than say "I do")! You talk with us (in English, in the US). We design your unique wedding weekend or week. And then we make it happen. Think of this as your chance to escape the clutter of daily life, leaving the minutia behind, so you can focus on the most important thing: Your partner and your ceremony.
Destination weddings are for couples who want to focus on each other and their commitment. These couples not only have a sense of adventure, they want to look back on their wedding day and remember each other, not the hoards of people, seating arrangements, and catering problems that typically dominate a wedding. Because you do not have these things to worry about when you go to Paris or Provence for your wedding, the day/weekend/week is much simpler! So, kick your feet up and enjoy your wedding!
Myth 3: You must either celebrate at home (with family and friends) or abroad, and miss out on family and friends:Not so! You can eat your cake and have it too! Certainly, you may have a few people who wish to travel with you.
But, even if that's not possible, it's still possible to share your special day with your loved ones. We work with several photography partners who create DVD slideshows of your ceremony and entire weekend/week as well as video of your ceremony. These are edited, set to music, and presented to you soon after your ceremony. Thus, when you get home we can arrange a champagne reception for your family and friends where your guests get to view your special event!So, if you're ready to be the envy of your friends, create a weekend that is truly unique, and thoroughly enjoy yourself, give Bliss Travels a call!
Thanks to our great photography partners: Anthony Bianciella, Sarah Miller, and Bill Mathesius for allowing us to share their work!
6 Holiday Shopping Tips: How to shop in France
Shopping, that "all American sport" is one of those cultural obsessions we share with the French. Paris is one of the shopping meccas of the world
And, although it's done differently, it's something, especially at this time of year that both the French and the Americans do with gusto! Holiday Shopping. Whether you visit the Christmas markets, the shops, Paris or Provence, here are some great tips for how to pick up the best gift and also make the experience one to remember.
Here are some tips to make the most of your experience.1. The French are more formal than Americans in their commercial encounters. Begin each transaction --indeed, each entry into an establishment, with a formal "bonjour". Always say "merci" and "au revoir" as well. We Americans like to pop in and out of stores and, if we aren't seriously considering a purchase we don't like to "bother" the staff. The French see it differently. Whereas we might find it rude to 'interrupt', they find it rude not to say hello and goodbye.
2. Comment on the items for sale. Talk about them. Ask questions. Find out where they're from, or how they're made, or how to wear them etc. There's a lot of merchant pride and there are a lot of small artisans and producers who take great pride in their work, and they will likely show you even more special things, once they see that you care about their craft. Plus, you'll learn a little something and connect with someone. (Bliss always makes it a point to introduce people to at least one artisan producer or craftsperson on our trips so people can learn about the product but more so, connect with a different person and culture --the raison d'être for travel!)
3. When you make a purchase in the United States, you hand the money to the merchant and they put the change back in your hands. In France, the money goes on the little tray in front of the register and the change gets put there as well for you to pick up. Rarely do you see a "hand to hand" transaction.4. More than likely, if you buy something, you will be asked if it's "a gift". If it is, it will be charmingly and uniquely wrapped for you. It's so great to return home and give a gift that not only is unique, but looks unique. So, if it's a gift, by all means say so!5. Remember to visit some of the smaller shops and boutiques, as well as window shopping (or as the French phrase translates --licking the windows!) the big named designer shops. So you can get a taste of the region and culture instead of the world popular market.
6. If you're in the countryside --Provence, for example, find out what the specialty of that town is, and then visit those shops. If you're in Sault, it's Lavender. If you're in other places it's pottery or paint pigments or cherries or a particular type of cheese or candied fruit...You get the idea. Local is extremely significant in France. And local means a very small area. (Let me tell you a story. One evening I was sitting at a friend's dinner table, in a small village in Provence. She had a fabulously delicious olive oil on the table. I complimented her on it and asked if it was local (almost rhetorically, because I assumed it would be). She said no. I was shocked and said, "really?" Her response was telling: "No, it's not local, it's from my grandfather's tree." Now, that's really local!!!Have a Blissful Holiday shopping experience! And write us if we can help!Wendy@blisstravels.com
In Paris & Brussels, Tis The Season for Chocolate
Now that the weather outside is frosty (hear the tune in your head), it's time for chocolate! Real chocolate. Delicate chocolates. Chocolates that don't like too much heat because they are filled with real, fresh, flavored cream, or stamped and painted with gorgeous drawings, or melted and stirred into thick unctuous decadent drinks. Is your mouth watering yet?
Each winter --in both December and February (Valentine's Day, anyone?) Bliss Travels visits the most magnificent chocolatiers and patissieres to see what new creations and exciting treats are available. (And, we don't just visit, we taste, and taste...and then have a glass of Champagne --whoops, got distracted. Sorry!)This year is no different. Even if you can't come on our Christmas week trip (where we do this in Paris) or our Valentine's weekend or add on a visit to Brussels, you can still look at these amazing treats and learn what to find here. What could be better ?Smaller than American confections, and typically more delicate, with thinner shells, these treats also have significantly less sugar, making them (in the opinion of Bliss Travels) practically a health food! (Truth: they are less fattening, and less addictive, because there is less sugar and nothing that's chemical in them.) If you talk to an artisan in Brussels or Paris, they will tell you chocolate in proper "doses" is medicinal and very good for you. I wouldn't argue with that if I were you. I sure don't!
Some of the flavors below include lavender and a fresh cream of tiramisu!
The chocolates in this photo are from Neuhaus. You can buy this brand in the US, but you cannot buy the fresh creams. They are too delicate to travel. The photo here depicts chocolates filled with a very light flavored whipped cream (this is not the cloying sweet gummy stuff we call "creams" in the box of assorted chocolates you get in the US). You must get these in BRUSSELS.So, what to do here. Look for small batch chocolates, make by artisans. Look for higher quality (and darker, more pure) chocolates. Avoid anything with a list of ingredients with things you personally wouldn't cook with. Look for smaller pieces, interesting flavors, freshest ingredients.Then there are other things you can do with chocolate...If you're in Paris or Brussels! Take a look at a typical, well done treat. (But, you have to know where to go!)
What could be a better gift than Chocolate --well, taking that person tasting in Paris --but, if you can't do that, find the real thing here. It makes a difference.We wish you a truly sweet season....And hope you'll join us soon! It's BlissIf you want to know more, write me. I love to hear from people! Wendy@blisstravels.com
How to Fall in Love in Paris: A True Story
Paris is the city of Love and Romance. Mais Oui! And never more so than over Christmas and Valentine's Day. This is a true story about finding love in Paris. One I like telling as I begin to plan for all the holidays.About this time, two years ago, Bliss Travels, was leading a group through France for a photo shoot of wedding gowns for Nicole Miller Philadelphia, when the first of three paralyzing snow storms hit the East Coast of the US. The photographer and I arrived in Provence for our destination wedding photo shoot, only to find that the model and all of the clothing were snowed in at home.Our intrepid photographer and I were sitting in a tiny village restaurant having a Christmas lunch with the town (yes, pretty much the entire town)
trying to decide how to photograph a destination wedding without a bride or bridal clothing when our waiter appeared-handsome, blue eyed and very photogenic. As we munched on pâté and warm toast, followed by a red wine soaked Provencal daube (for her) and a duck confit (for me) and the traditional 13 desserts (okay, it wasn't a hardship!) we hatched a plan with the town councilwoman whose hospitality we were enjoying.
For the next 36 hours as we received frantic updates from our 'bride' saying she (and our wedding dresses) were in transit, Julien continued to show up for photo shoots with a bow tie and a grin.Finally, on our last night in this little village, we invited Julien to dinner and told him that our "bride" would be waiting when he arrived. Secretly, Sarah and I joked that Julien could not possibly believe we really had a model on the way. There had been so many canceled meetings. As this became more and more comic, we plied Julien with pre dinner aperitifs and attempted to convince him -over his laughs and eye rolls -- that our "bride" did exist. At that moment, our "bride" , Mia Calona, sauntered in as if she was only "fashionably late" for a party. Julien took one look at her, smiled and said "oui, oui" (without asking if it was pretend).
However, like any 'marriage of convenience', theirs was over before it it began. Julien was off to see his family for the holidays and we left for Chateauneuf du Pape and Paris. We spent three more days of photography and then spent Christmas Day in Paris (which I highly recommend) together celebrating the success of our trip.The next morning, another paralyzing storm hit the East Coast, and Sarah found herself stuck in Charles de Gaulle airport for several hours, unable to leave France. So, she struck up a conversation with another delayed traveler (yes, part French) and, you guessed it, they hit it off. Within weeks, he had moved to Philadelphia. Within months they were engaged. And, now they are getting married! So, finding love in the City of Light and Love is always possible. Just ask Sarah!
5 Tips on how to find a GOOD restaurant in France
Everyone likes to eat well. But, just like not everyone knows how to cook, not everyone knows how to find a restaurant or pick a dish that meets their expectations --especially when traveling to another country. Given that it's Thanksgiving weekend (gobble, gobble) and we are only 3 1/2 weeks away from our Christmas week in Paris, I thought a few pointers would be helpful. What I'm saying is particularly true in France --though in general, this could be applied in other countries.1. Get off the Beaten Track: While you may not be able to find the truly "off the beaten track" spots, you can, and should, avoid the huge boulevards in favor of smaller neighborhood streets. (Unless you've decided to eat in a very expensive world class gourmet restaurant, where the chef's reputation and the gastronomic offerings support that sort of "store front") Why? Because the big tourist streets come with "big" rent. That means that to survive, the typical restaurant must make a number of culinary concessions just to pay their rent. They have to turn tables, buy bargain "product", and, in general, crank out enough business to keep the lights on. So, don't be seduced by the big, bright restaurant with the large dining room. Find a more intimate setting. You're likely to have a better (and better priced) meal.
2. Read Menus: What is on the menu? Does it highlight a particular sort of cuisine? Do the dishes on the menu feature seasonal products? Do they have "blackboard" specials, or is everything special, every day? Other than the exceptional chef (who you are unlikely to "discover" as a tourist), most chefs have a particular cuisine that is their specialty, and a few signature dishes or techniques (cooking show video). I'm sure you've heard the expression, "Jack of all trades, master of none". Well, if the menu looks like it's a United Nations manifesto --you may be dealing with a master of nothing. Also, if the menu seems to be the same 12 months out of the year, providing the diner with the comfort of eating the very same things in December as they eat in June, then it probably relies on packaged, processed or frozen foods. Things simply aren't fresh year round! And fresh tastes better. Find a chef who knows what he likes to cook, is influenced and inspired by seasonal products and the food will be good. Look at the menu and see if you can identify the type of cuisine and that the products are seasonal. For example, this Christmas in Paris, our menus will have things like scallops, chestnuts, foie gras, lamb, oysters, and chocolate (not on the same plate of course)! Why? Because these things are winter specialties. In summer we see melon, tomato, peach, zucchini and similar produce dominate our meals.
3. Similarly, don't read "English" menus. If it's been translated, then they are telling you that tourism is their mainstay. You can have people cater to your "American" tastes when you're back at home, right? Why not try something that speaks to the French culture? Find a restaurant with a French menu, in French, that's market fresh, and ask them what their specialty is. Order the "prix fixe" (the set menu) even if you don't know what the dishes are. They will be the market fresh chef's specials of the day (not the left over meatloaf). Then, order the local wine to accompany the meal and sit back and relax.4. Look at the patrons. Walk around, especially if you're in Paris. If you're in the countryside, you will be able to tell who is dining where by talking to people as well as doing a bit of "sightseeing". As you stop and read the menus (all menus are posted outside the restaurant) look at and listen to the patrons. First, are there patrons? Second, are they local or tourists? What language are they speaking? If the answer is that the restaurant is full of people who look like a group you'd want to socialize with, and they are speaking French (for the most part), then it's a good bet that this restaurant has something wonderful to offer! However, it also might be full and require a reservation. The places we go require not just reservations, but relationships. They are popular local spots (or open for us) and they have creative chefs...
And if you want that, then you may have to plan in advance (or come with us)!!! If you're on your own, you'll need to know whether "dropping by" is the best way to get a table (counting on last minute cancellations or snagging a late or early table) OR whether making a reservation for the next night or lunch is better. Some of this requires more information than you are likely to have as a tourist, but give it a try. If they're too full, ask if coming back later or making a reservation for a different date or meal is a better idea.
5. Consider the Source! If you're choosing your restaurants based upon recommendations --in books, by reviews, or because "someone" recommended it (friend, concierge, person you meet while traveling), then it's very important not just to listen to what they are telling you, but to listen to who they are so you know what they know! I don't know about you, but I would consider a recommendation from a friend who lived in the area, and who was a chef or in the "food" world much more seriously than I would from someone I met while standing in line for a movie! But when people travel, all of a sudden, literally everyone they meet and everyone they chat with, has the "it" spot that they "must" go to! People blindly follow internet reviews or tourist guides, as does everyone else who's traveling. Sometimes, I think that Air France should offer a shuttle directly from the plane to the restaurant being profiled by the "big guides" and save me the trouble of booking the same old thing for people! Again, if you're not talking about the top few world renown Michelin chefs, who, of course, everybody knows, then seriously consider the source of your recommendation.
Nobody can guarantee a perfect meal, but find someone local, or in the food profession or with extensive travel experience in France to recommend the dining experience that you crave. You're more likely to have a "blissful" experience, than if just blindly follow your neighbors' brother's cousins' recommendation. Who knows what he considers "good"!And, then Bon Appetite! How apropos to discuss eating well on Thanksgiving weekend!
Video of Provence, Mediterranean, Paris
Watch our Video:
Our October trip to Paris, Provence and the Mediterranean.
Just as the song in the video says: you can do anything. Why not follow your Bliss?
You only live once!
- Yours Truly, on a Bliss-ful trip
A Bientot,Wendy