36 hours in Paris

Earlier this year I felt I needed some inspiration, so took myself on a 36 hours field trip to Paris. Nothing like exploring the city of love with a notebook to come back refreshed and full of ideas.

40.000 steps later, I thought I'll share my itinerary in case you're visiting Paris anytime soon.

It's always best to choose one of the 20 arrondissements (municipal districts) as our base. The numbering begins in the heart of Paris and continues in the spiralling shape of a snail. 

I stayed in the 3rd arrondissement and walked from there. First stop was Merci. I used to love Merci, but felt it has really lost its way. Lazy buyers, nothing really new and exciting. See for yourselves. 

From there I walked and stumbled across Dejima. What a gem. "Through a curated selection of unique homewares and gifts, Dejima offers a creative and contemporary vision of Japanese craftsmanship." I highly recommend visiting.

A few doors down you'll find Papier Tigre. Again, I used to love the brand. Was a bit disappointed in the shop and the reduced stock. It felt more like a small warehouse than a boutique.

I didn't make it to L’Ecritoire (26 Passage Moliére 75003). A family run and original stationery. The reason was that I was rushing to go to La Maison du Pastel, (the oldest pastel manufacture in the world) which ONLY opens on a Thursday between 2-6pm. It's legendary and I had never been before. This was a unique experience in itself. People come from all over the world and the lovely ladies will show you any of the hundreds hues they stock.

Another address I didn't get to is Officine Universelle Buly (45 Rue de Saintonge, 75003 Paris). They have got a concession in Selfridges, but their stand alone shops are something else. A real treat for the eyes with incredible product packaging. 

MAD et LEN (27 Galerie Vivienne, 75002 Paris) is one of those boutiques you only find in Paris. Their products capture the scents of memories through objects crafted by artisans and experimental fragrances. My favourite fragrance of theirs is Ambre Nobile. But they are all great!

To put a smile on your face, you have to go to the of Marin Montagut boutique (48 Rue de Madame 75006 Paris).  Marin Montagut is a French illustrator and designer, who collaborates with many French and international brands. Through his collections, he celebrates his favorite neighborhoods with elegance and accuracy.