Things are back in full force after la rentrée – the return from vacation to school/work, etc. – and Paris is as full as I’ve seen it since February 2020. It’s exciting but also a definite adjustment. I realize now how just how quiet and calm things actually were. And while the circumstances were certainly less than ideal, I feel lucky to have seen and experienced that version of the city for so long. This week’s Five Friday Finds from France features a book on the art of drinking wine like the French, a new Paris-scented candle from Diptyque, the charming Rueil-Malmaison just outside of Paris, a note on the French Health Pass and more.
New Paris-Scented Candle from Diptyque
I’m a seasonal scented candle burner. I love candles on a dinner table year-round, but otherwise tend to burn scented candles in the fall and winter. I love woody scents (including the holiday firs), so I can’t wait to get the new Diptyque Paris candle. It has notes of wood and spicy vanilla to evoke Paris. If you’re a Francophile or Paris lover, after reading this description you’ll be hooked:
This stopover is illustrated in a candle that has been conceived as a Parisian stroll. We walk along the Seine, its quais lined with weeping willows and chestnut trees, passing antique shops before losing ourselves in the pages of old books found on the booksellers’ stands. At the heart of the composition, notes of polished wood, and the spicy vanilla accents of weathered books and paving stones evoke this Parisian atmosphere where art meets history.
The candle is presented with a lid of sculpted black wood inspired by the design of old diptyque candle stands. On the label, a compass rose symbolises the starting point of diptyque’s Grand Tour. It is inspired by the compass rose carved on the forecourt of Notre-Dame de Paris to mark Kilometre Zero, the point from which every road in France starts.
Diptyque
The Diptyque marketing department did their job. If you aren’t already familiar with Diptyque’s fascinating history you can read more here.
The Paris Picnic Spot Along the Seine River
The weeping willows Diptyque mentioned in the Paris candle description? You’ll find one (there used to be two) at the Paris picnic spot along the Seine River. The tree is located at the very tip of Île de la Cité. On a pretty day you’ll find Parisians sitting underneath the tree watching the boats go by on the river. Last Friday I met my friend Emily for a picnic and it was perfect. We had sandwiches, strawberries, and a crisp white Burgundy from Edouard Delaunay wines. I’m no wine master, but I do know when I like a wine and this one was delicious.
Monseigneur le Vin: The Art of Drinking Wine (Like the French Do) Book
As I’m still working on my wine knowledge, I’ve found the perfect book to add to my collection. Monseigneur le Vin: The Art of Drinking Wine (Like the French Do) was originally published in 1927 as a set of promotional books for Nicolas, a chain of wine stores that you’ll find all over France (they also have good tequila for inquiring minds). This cheeky (and very French) book is broken down into three parts. You’ll learn how to prepare, serve, and bien sûr, drink wine. I love the illustrations and how easy it is to read. It would make a great gift for any wine lover in your life.
20 Minutes Outside of Paris: The Charming Rueil-Malmaison
I’m constantly amazed by how many wonderful places there are within an hour drive of Paris. Sometimes in as little as 15 minutes you can feel like you’re in a completely different world. Last weekend Romain and I were just driving around and exploring and I fell in love with the charming Rueil-Malmaison. The colorful buildings and shutters instantly made me smile along with the lively square in town. Coupled with the warm weather, it really felt like being in the south of France. The town is famous for being home to the Château de Malmaison, which is where Napoleon I’s first wife Joséphine lived and eventually died. I highly recommend a visit!
Website for the French Health Pass for Foreigners
The process to get a French Health Pass is proving to be a bit complicated for visitors. There is a new system that will hopefully make things easier. Instead of using the email address to apply, try applying through this website. It’s uncertain when exactly you’ll receive your QR code, although to date all of my clients have received theirs before arriving in France (sometimes within 24 hours of arrival). If you’re planning on traveling to France, I recommend applying in advance of your arrival to ensure you get the QR code in time! If you have any France travel related questions feel free to contact me here.
I hope you enjoyed this week’s Five Friday Finds from France. I’ll be back tomorrow with Weekend Links!
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