Habitually Chic®'s Logo  

Paris is Always a Good Idea

by habituallychic

05 . 29 . 13
“Paris is always a good idea.” – Audrey Hepburn
I couldn’t agree with Audrey more especially since I’m off to Paris tonight.  I’m headed to the City of Light for a press trip with a lot of built in personal time. The weather seems a little iffy and not unlike what it’s been in New York recently so as soon as I hit CDG, I’m buying a four day Paris Museum Pass.  I’m looking forward to getting lost in the Louvre or Musée Nissim de Camondo whenever it starts to rain. Now that we have a Laduree a few blocks from my apartment, it’s not as much of a treat but I can’t wait visit the tea salon when I need a rest. I will be staying in Saint Germain where I’ll be able to walk to all my favorite places like Flamant and Deyrolle.  I hope to make it to the Marais to visit Merci this trip too.  
I’m traveling alone and actually look forward to getting lost while taking photos and not having to worry about holding someone up. Photography is becoming more of a focus in my life and I’m excited to take my better camera and better eye to Paris this trip. I also plan to Instagram my adventure if you want to follow along.  I’ll try not to post too many pics but can’t make any guarantees.  I wasn’t looking forward to eating dinner alone but I do know a few people who I plan to meet up with during my trip. 
Most of all, I’m looking forward to being inspired. Cassandra of Coco + Kelley posted about needing directing in her Uncomfortable post from yesterday and I can definitely relate.  I’ve been feeling adrift this year and not sure which direction to steer myself.  I have been in safely ensconced in my comfort zone and need to figure out what I want to do next, whether it’s another book or developing a product line.  There is nothing like a change of scenery to inspire and motivate and I hope to come back with a new sense of purpose.  
As I mentioned, I am traveling alone and want this fact to inspire you as well.  So many times people don’t go places because they don’t have anyone to go with them. If you’ve been waiting to visit Paris or another place, just do it.  There is no time like the present to follow your dream and you never know, you might just meet someone fabulous along the way. 
À tout à lheure!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

19 Comments
Comments Closed

  1. Coulda shoulda woulda May 29, 2013 | 12:45 pm

    I actually prefer travelling alone as I get to soak it all in – sometimes it is like watching a movie with someone. I actually make a point of making a solo trip every year. Have a lovely trip!

  2. DaniBP May 29, 2013 | 12:48 pm

    Have an excellent trip Heather! I look forward to your photos and thoughts when you return. Paris is always so inspiring and I’m sure it will have that effect on you! Safe travels to you.

  3. Preston Davis May 29, 2013 | 1:20 pm

    I used to go to Paris for work 6 times a year. No family or friends to cater to, bliss! Have fun and let’s grab a coffee one of these days.
    And thank you for the heads up on the ‘uncomfortable’ post, I think it’s in the air.
    Travel safely, p

  4. The New Diplomats Wife May 29, 2013 | 1:57 pm

    Have a wonderful trip! Try dinner at Les Papilles if you can. Keith Haring Retrospective. And everybody keeps going on about the Broken Arm (store and small restaurant) Haven’t tried it yet but hoping for a full report. But with Ritz and Crillon closed now for renovations, I’m all out of ideas for where to have classic champagne cocktails!

  5. Pamela Keogh May 29, 2013 | 2:05 pm

    Too many pictures of Paris? Not possible!

    Have a blast. Look forward to hearing all about your travels, views, perspective, etc.

    (What camera are you using these days?)

  6. Fashion-isha May 29, 2013 | 2:21 pm

    Traveling along to Paris sounds wonderful! Enjoy every minute!
    xo
    Sharon

  7. Ryann Swan {Shades of Chic} May 29, 2013 | 3:53 pm

    Fabulous advice to travel alone! I actually went to Paris alone last year while my husband had his bachelor party and it was the most magical time I could imagine!

    Have a wonderful time & can’t wait to see more photos!

  8. ArchitectDesign™ May 29, 2013 | 4:11 pm

    Sadly, Flamant doesn’t seem to be what it once was -HUGE disappointment. Interested to hear what you think. Have fun!!

  9. parisbeekids.com May 29, 2013 | 5:00 pm

    Enjoy Paris! We’re back on Monday too. Looking forward to it!!!

    xoxo PARIS BEE kids blog

  10. Nicole P. May 29, 2013 | 7:58 pm

    You are so right about traveling along. I went to Palm Beach earlier this year fora few days on my own and it was pure bliss! Have a safe and wonderful trip, and I hope you find the inspiration you are looking for!

  11. Karen Albert May 30, 2013 | 4:11 am

    Heather have a fabulous time and it will not be a problem at all for you to bring back lots of images!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

  12. designsourcebook.net May 30, 2013 | 9:13 am

    Bon voyage! I adore travelling alone. Dinner is a little tricky, I admit, but other than that one can indulge every whim…

  13. Home Lifestyle Design May 30, 2013 | 2:54 pm

    I hope you have a fabulous, photo filled trip to Paris! I have never been to Paris so I will have to get my thrills through the pictures you will be sharing. Thanks, Patty

  14. Heidi May 30, 2013 | 3:34 pm

    I love travelling alone–you are free to your own thoughts. If you find yourself in the 11th by the Cirque d’Hiver, visit the Clown Bar, a historic bistro with a truly excellent local wine selection. Wish I could be there!

  15. MJH Design Arts May 30, 2013 | 3:46 pm

    I love Paris. You are definitely inspiring me…traveling alone has never been very appealing, but I am considering it with new eyes. Yes, a step out of our comfort zones is always good, if not easy. Bon Voyage–updates are coming.
    Mary

  16. Inner Outer Beauty May 30, 2013 | 5:46 pm

    Happily married with three kids, I can totally relate to some alone time. It’s good for the soul. We need it. Paris would always be a good idea. And I love that uncomfortable quote earlier this week since I think it says it all. about life. Enjoy your trip! Caroline

  17. the designers muse May 30, 2013 | 8:07 pm

    Fantastic Photos!!! thanks for sharing.
    Jennifer

  18. Unknown May 30, 2013 | 10:27 pm

    Bon voyage, Heather! I hope your trip helps you decide on your next direction. It’s bound to be inspiring, as long as you keep your eyes open (which your photographs show you are very good at). I have almost always traveled alone…it offers so many opportunities. Savor every minute! À bientôt, Leslie in Portland, Oregon

  19. Elma in Cape Town June 1, 2013 | 3:58 am

    Dear Heather
    Remember to visit the original Diptyque store on Bvd St Germain, Cire Trudon, Assouline Publisher’s store and take a stroll through the Jardin du Luxembourg, all of which are close to your hotel. Lunch at the courtyard restaurant at the Ralph Lauren flagship on Bvd Saint Germain is a treat and remember to view the fabulous window displays of Hermes on Rue du Faurbourgh.
    Raining in Cape Town as well.
    Enjoy
    Elma