My Life in Paris and Travels Around France
Now more than ever, I think Valentine’s Day should be less about grand gestures and more about doing heartfelt things to honor the people you love, whether that’s a friend, a family member, a partner, or yourself. I created this list of Valentine’s Day gift ideas for Francophiles last year and updated it this year. There’s a little something for everyone – I think these French-inspired gifts (all available online) would make the day extra special!
Year after year some of my very favorite Christmas ornaments in Paris come from Astier de Villatte. They are truly fabulous and are never exactly the same. Today I got to see (and shop) the 2020 Astier de Villatte ornaments and I couldn’t wait to share them!
It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year again to be thinking about holiday gifts, but it is! This year I wanted to put together a group of French gifts all available online. Now that shops are reopening in France starting on Saturday I hope to be able to provide even more options from local places. This list of 32 gifts for Francophiles available online has a little something for everyone!
I’m excited to put up my Christmas tree and am already thinking about new ornaments to add. I truly believe more is more when it comes to the Christmas tree so I always keep my eyes out for festive ornaments. Some of my favorite Christmas ornaments in Paris are at Astier de Villatte. While I can’t get there right now this list of 40 French Christmas ornaments available online will keep me occupied!
Christmas seems to be on hold at the moment in France because of the lockdown. Lights are up but not turned on. Windows are decorated but stores are closed. It’s a little bizarre, but it’s 2020. Luckily, La Grande Épicerie is considered to be an essential store and it is filled with all sorts of French Advent Calendars, many of which are available online. I know this is a little bit early…but Advent Calendars require a little bit of advance thinking so you’re ready to go on December 1st (which I’m usually not).