Good morning from classy and refined Paris!

Having just spent three sunny June days in Paris, I am relaxed and at peace.  Does the feng shui ever work here!  The buttery yellow buildings create a soothing backdrop for the brightly colored flowers on window sills and in lush green gardens.  The Luxembourg Gardens (as well as others) are beautifully manicured and inviting.  The statutes and extraordinary stonework apprise of the city’s abounding history of world influence, craftsmanship, and romance.

It takes only a few minutes for this American to take notice of the French’s great pride in appearance and mannerisms.  Although I am not qualified to compare world city folk, I have to say the French are among the best dressed and are very classy (American tourists be prepared to up your game).

My daughter, Alison is a fashion merchandising major (sustainability minor ) at the University of Delaware and is studying abroad in Paris this summer, including working behind the scenes at Haute Couture Fashion Week!  In addition to garden walks and cafes, these three days were spent settling Ali into her apartment and helping her learn her way around the city.  Many thanks to Lyndsey and Susanne (Ali’s lovely roommate and her very helpful mom) who are more familiar with Paris, including the best dining view of the Eiffel Tower!  Although very busy, the ambiance of the city made the three day trip feel like a vacation – a much needed one.

Until next time! Enjoy a few photos of the trip, including Ali, the Luxembourg Gardens, the Effiel Tower, and my hotel:  Hotel Observatoire Luxembourg.

Au revoir!