When it comes to packing I always go against the grain and never follow advice. In fact, rather than travelling light I maximize the baggage allowance to the last pound. Travel itself is so exciting and fun. Now add to it the anticipation, the planning and the shopping for the trip, it just takes it to the next level.
When we research and plan a trip I find my subconscious mind taking into account the sights, season, location, colours and the ambience of the place. Europe of course is a whole new ball game. European fashion has always resinated with me. I love their upscale, classy, timeless, well cut clothes with minimal accessories. Don’t get me wrong as a Canadian I love my yoga pants and the comfort that comes with it. But I had to live out my European dream.
France had been on our bucket list for a long period of time. Amidst raising three children and running our business, we always dreamt of going to France one day. We had decided when we go, we would rent a convertible and drive the country side. My vision was complete with the head scarf and cat eye glasses.
When it came to outfits my first thought was that of a polka dot dress. I went on RalphLauren.com and there it was a navy polka dot dress in a light georgette fabric, and a very classy cut, staring right at me. And, it was on sale. Voila!!
Paris weather seems to be at its best in June. I knew we would be doing a lot of walking in the warm, long days. My dresses had to be light, breezy, comfortable and of course fun.
I was so excited to see Palace of Versailles. I had heard so much about its beauty and opulence. It certainly lives up to its reputation.
I did pack one denim jacket (borrowed from my daughter Supreet). Call me an optimistic but my space was precious and I did not want to waste it on sweaters and jackets. It worked out perfectly as I only needed to wear it for two evenings. (The Seine Cruise and Seine walk).
One of the outfits I throughly enjoyed wearing and felt very chic in was this navy and white (one of my favourite summer colour combinations) striped jumpsuit. The last time I wore a jumpsuit was in the 80’s. I love the ease, comfort and confidence it give you. I think its one of my favourite outfits at the moment.
From Paris we travelled to Nice by train and spent a few days in the beautiful French Riviera.
From Nice we did a day trip to Monaco and Village of Eze. What a gorgeous day and amazing places. I chose to wear this navy blue and white outfit from RW_Co.
One of my favourite and most memorable evening was our dinner at Mirazur ( a two Michelin Star restaurant that sits at number four on the San Pellegrino list). Located at the border of Italy and France over looking the Mediterranean Sea, it is a true gem. It was the best meal the two of us have ever had. Each bite was a burst of beautiful flavour and the presentation of each course was a true work of art. (All thanks to the recommendation of our daughter Supreet and her husband Rob.)
From the Riveria we rented a convertible and drove our way around Provence. I will always cherish this beautiful time.
I also absolutely love bikes and bike rides. It just so happened that our hotel in Arles actually had some for rent. Arles is a small,laid back, historical village. It was the perfect setting for a bike ride.
I truly love the European linen and hoped to find some dresses at French boutique stores. After going to a couple and not seeing anything I liked I decided we did not have time to waste in stores. However, I did find two simple, summery, perfect dresses at H & M on Champs-Elysees.
Here is a shout out to my ever comfortable and supportive Echo sandals. You can see these in many of the photos. When it comes to comfort of the feet there is no compromise. I had packed a few pair but these were my go to pair for ever lasting comfort and support.
I had heard so much about the beauty of France and had dreamt about this trip for a long time. Planning and living out each moment, each vision and each dream I ever had made it one of the most memorable trips for both of us. Looking and feeling my best and planning, shopping and dressing to meet the occasion took everything to the next level. It could not have been any better.
Je t’aime France!! A bientôt…
With Love,
Devinder ❤️
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