Hôtel le Canal.
New Hotels
Hôtel le Canal
Located in the 19th Arrondissement, near both the Gare du Nord and the Gare de l’Est, the Hôtel le Canal has been recently renovated. This boutique hotel was designed to be sustainable, producing its own heat and hot water, thanks to solar energy. The decor of its 36 comfortable bedrooms (2 are accessible to guests with disabilities) is inspired by cinema themes, and includes wood floors, soothing blue walls, earth-toned accents and relaxing lighting. Each guest room also comes with a desk, telephone and flat-screen television. Rooms start at 63 euros.
New Museums and Exhibitions
Suite Elle Décoration
For the third consecutive year, the former apartment of Jacques Carlu (architect of the Palais de Chaillot) will be in the hands of another great designer. This time Jean Paul Gaultier has re-created the space, which will be on view until October 2011. Gaultier’s signature nautical theme of blue stripes on a white background is present throughout the apartment, and the lounge has been transformed into an indoor garden, with green vegetation gracing the walls and furnishings. Visits are limited to Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and cost 3 euros. The space can even be rented out for private events.
Paris in Love
You still have time to catch the “Paris d’Amour” photo exhibition at the Hôtel de Ville. Through July 31 about 100 photos taken at weddings and civil unions in Paris by photographer Gérard Uféras will be on display, showcasing weddings and couples celebrating in the City of Light. The exhibition is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is free.
Antoine Watteau’s Engravings
The Musée du Louvre is hosting the exhibition “Antoine Watteau and the Art of Engraving” until October 11. The show will include about 100 Watteau works, illustrating the art of engraving during the 18th century. Admission is included in the museum ticket.
The new Lucien Pellat-Finet boutique on rue St.-Honoré.
Hot Shopping
Desigual Shop, the atypical Spanish brand, opened a flagship store in the 9th Arrondissement, steps from the Opéra Garnier. Clothing for men, women and kids, as well as hip accessories, are on offer at affordable prices.
A brand new vintage boutique called Goldymama has opened on rue Surmelin, in the 20th Arrondissement. Funky vintage prints, evening wear, designer items, handbags, hats and jewelry at bargain prices make this a fun place to shop. You can even shop online!
Known for luxe and unique cashmere, Lucien Pellat-Finet has opened a two-story boutique on rue St.-Honoré, in the 1st Arrondissement. The sparkling, bright white interior shows off his high-priced lines for men, women and children, as well as home furnishings.
Hot Happenings
Fête Foraine du Jardin des Tuileries
Through August 22 this annual funfair is enjoyed by children and adults, making it one of the biggest events of summer. For two months the Tuileries gardens is transformed into a carnival, with fairground rides, colored balloons, food and more. Don’t miss the Ferris wheel, which offers up stunning views of Paris both day and night.
Open-Air Cinema Festival
From July 17 through August 22, locals and visitors alike will flock to the Parc de la Villette for Cinéma en Plein Air, the annual open-air cinema festival. Bring a blanket, stake out your slice of lawn and watch 1 of 36 different films projected onto the big outdoor screen. Some may even be in English. The best part is that admission is free!
New for Jet-setters
Follow the Parisians and head out of town to the French Riviera for your summer vacation. Head to St.-Tropez, where Louis Vuitton recently opened a renovated boutique on rue François Sibilli, which resembles a lavish Mediterranean villa with a beach. There you’ll find stylish resort wear to don during your visit. The inner courtyard boasts fragrant orange and jasmine trees.
Hot Paris Reads
A new, alternative guidebook has made an appearance on the Paris radar. 24 Hours Paris, by Marsha Moore, groups content by time, rather than by activity. The book offers a fresh look at exploring hidden areas of the city, and it’s receiving rave reviews.
Editor’s note: For Girls’ Guide handpicked hotels and tours, see our Book It page.
Tags: Art/Culture, books, exhibitions, festivals, France, hotels, museums, Paris, Robin Locker, Shopping, travel, women
