Paris

A stroll through the ‘City of Love’

In a city like Paris, 24 hours is just enough to give you the buzz. The well-heeled vibe, the sights on the Seine, the luxury that lingers in the air; it’s a city of sophistication with a quintessentially European vibe and inimitable charm. Rich in culture and even richer in romance, this metropolis is sure to have you returning in no time.

9AM

Assuming the weather is clear, my favourite place to start is the Sacré-Cœur. Sitting proudly atop the highest point in the capital, this stunning white basilica provides a sprawling view of Paris; even more so once you climb to the top of the dome. Absorbing the tranquillity of the basilica before the crowds arrive sets the scene for a delightful day ahead, and I relish the opportunity to appreciate the city from a distance. 

I do as the Parisians do and drop by the nearby Place du Tertre. The coffee and croissant aromas lure me in and I spend a few minutes watching the artists that fill the cafe-lined square.

11AM

The neoclassical Église Notre-Dame-de-Lorette and beautiful Église de la Sainte-Trinité in particular are well worth a few minutes of admiration. My aim however, is the Musée du Louvre – around a 45-minute walk from the Sacré-Cœur. Whether you’re an art buff or not, you can’t help but be impressed by the structure itself and the incredible artistic history that resides inside.

If you’ve worked up an appetite in the museum, stop into Le Café Marly for sustenance. This terrace under the arcades has Napoléon III-inspired interiors and an elegant atmosphere, not to mention breathtaking views of the famed Louvre pyramid.

2PM

My afternoon takes me across the romantic Pont des Arts bridge lined with padlocks to the Boulevard Saint-Germain. This pretty street at the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district is lined with leafy trees and beautiful buildings. Fashion, home decor and gourmet food boutiques lead the way to an even more fabulous shopping neighbourhood.

For those still hungry for culture, head off the tourist track in Saint-Germain-des-Prés to the ornate Chapel of St Vincent de Paul and Notre-Dame de la Médaille Miraculeuse that tells the story of Catherine Labouré.

4PM

While journeying along the Seine towards La Tour Eiffel, I stand beneath the mighty framework and look up feeling in equal parts humbled and in awe.

There may be hordes of tourists surrounding it at all times, but a trip to Paris would be incomplete without showing this feat of engineering your appreciation, and I’d highly recommend first- timers go up to the viewing platform if you can handle the height.

With the Eiffel Tower ticked off, it’s time to reward my tired feet with pampering at the Shangi-La Hotel Paris, just across the Pont d’Iéna bridge. Inside this decadent hotel is Chi, The Spa. Their partnership with The Organic Pharmacy has evolved into a deluxe experience of soothing neutral hues, essential oil aromas and relaxing music.

The 180-minute Crystal Ritual is the ultimate treat. The lymphatic Rose Crystal Facial and heavenly Rose Renewal Body Ritual are nourishing, rejuvenating and uplifting; exactly what you need to endure the hustle and bustle. Alternatively, take an hour out of your day of sightseeing to spoil yourself with the Ultimate Rose Experience comprising a 60-minute de-stressing rose and jasmine massage.

6PM

As impressive from the outside as it is once you’re through the doors, The Peninsula provides the ultimate in comfort and opulence. The suites are spacious, the location iconic and the decor the epitome of refined glamour.

Their five-star service is legendary, as is their crowning jewel: the rooftop bar and restaurant L’Oiseau Blanc that boasts an aviation theme and spectacular views of the city skyline. The apartment-like rooms have unique details too, from a walk-in dressing room and state-of-the-art technology to a valet box to cater to your every whim.

8PM

Of all the eateries in the creative district of Montparnasse, La Closerie des Lilas is the one most often recommended by Parisians. I opt for the more formal restaurant, followed by a nightcap with live music in the Piano Bar. La Closerie des Lilas was once heralded as a favourite of Hemingway and Picasso; ensuring I end my day where infamous creatives once ended theirs.