Even with the value of the dollar approaching that of the euro, Americans traveling in Europe on a budget still need to be creative and mindful. The following suggestions can help any traveler, but especially those who prefer traveling independently. Airfare Finding the lowest airfares to Europe can be incredibly time-consuming. I turn to a reputable travel agent who may charge a fee but ... Read Full Article
Out and About in Paris – Part II: Le Restaurant
As in any major metropolitan city, eating out in Paris can be pricey if you don’t know where to go or how to go about it. After sinking nearly sixteen Euros into my first morning’s breakfast, a barebones repast consisting of a café crème, a small orange juice, and two slices of charred toast, I smartened up. INSIDER TIP: Reservations are highly recommended, not just on the weekend. If you are not ... Read Full Article
Rue Saint-Anne: a Japanese Food Haven in Paris
Looking for traditional Japanese food in Paris? Look to Rue Sainte Anne, which runs through the first and second arrondissements, near the Opera District. With a high concentration of Japanese businesses, the street forms a Japanese haven in France’s capital city. Wander the street and sample the best of what the district has to offer, from tiny restaurants to grocery stores. Rue Saint Anne offers ... Read Full Article
Eating My Way Through Venice
Before departing New York, I joke that I am going to Italy to get my Eat Pray Love on—but as soon as I step off the vaporetto (water taxi) that brings me from Marco Polo Airport, I decide these first few days in Venice will be focused on eating. Everything looks so amazingly good that figuring out what to eat nearly…consumes me. What do you do when your biggest decision of the day is what ... Read Full Article
An Insider’s View: Favorite Bars and Restaurants in Paris
We all know about Paris’ typical tourist haunts, but what aspects of the City of Lights appeal to locals? A few days ago, I was fortunate to interview Frédéric, a Parisian “insider.” We talked quite a bit about what this singular city has to offer, as well as his advice for tourists. Thank you for agreeing to share your thoughts about Paris. What brought you to the city? I arrived a year ago for ... Read Full Article
Five of the Best Terrasses in Paris
There are few things in life more enjoyable than having a drink and delicious eats on a patio when the weather is divine. No matter if it is spring, summer or fall, you need to experience a terrace in Paris, so it’s time to don your lunettes de soleil (sunglasses) and grab a table at one of (or more) of the best terrasses in Paris. Here are our Picks for the Best Terrasses in Paris Le ... Read Full Article
Berlin’s Kreuzberg Kultur: Shopping and Eating
Bordering the Berlin Wall, Kreuzberg borough was home to students, artists, leftist radicals and a large Turkish population throughout the 1960s-1080s. When the wall fell, the area became, once again, the center of Berlin. Though Kruezberg is still an eclectic area, rising rents are making it increasingly difficult for alternative businesses and artists to survive in the area. Kreuzberg is home ... Read Full Article
The Secret to Perfect Paris Crepes
On our first trip to Paris, we climbed the steps to the landmark Sacre Coeur Basilica. And finally, I saw what I had only seen in my French class textbooks--that pure white dome, the clusters of cool, chilled out students sprawled up and down the steps, laughing and chatting animatedly while rolling cigarettes with one hand. They were undisturbed by the gaping and camera-wielding tourists who, ... Read Full Article
Paris Restaurant Update
We recently spent a week in Paris and stayed in the 6th Arrondissement, also known as St. Germain des Pres. We stayed at the wonderful Victoria Palace Hotel, in the Cherche Midi neighborhood. This is a neighborhood where we had not stayed before, and I loved it. The hotel is walking distance to the fabulous Luxembourg Gardens, the Latin Quarter, and Montparnasse. The hotel is also very close to ... Read Full Article
Drinks in Paris’ Montmartre at L’été en pente douce
Last time I was in Paris, I met up with my good French friend and host sister (from my study abroad days in college) who had recently scored an amazing apartment in Paris’ coveted Montmartre neighborhood. When she asked where my husband and I would like to go for a drink, I responded that I wanted to visit her place and then go to her favorite bar or terrasse (outside seating area). So, we ... Read Full Article