VIP AREA DECEMBER 2011

THIS MONTH… DECEMBER
Looking for great shopping, delicious cuisine, beautiful sights, and a spot of romance this festive season? We recommend a trip to Paris.

WE’RE BOOKING… EUROSTAR
You can fly to Paris, of course – but we prefer jumping aboard the Eurostar. Not only is the ride comfortable, but the service is incredibly quick with a speedy journey time of a just 2 hours and 15 minutes from London. You’ll arrive at Gare du Nord in a flash and stroll out of the station to be greeted by typically Parisian boulevards and ambient brasseries. The perfect start to your festive trip to the city!
Book: www.eurostar.com

WE’RE STAYING… HOTEL THOUMIEUX
Looking for somewhere to lay your head? We strongly recommend checking into Hotel Thoumieux – an uber-stylish Art Deco hotel in the Left Bank. The boutique hotel has just 15 rooms and a quirky interior courtesy of designer India Mahdavi. We love the statement wallpaper, splashes of bright colour, and striking accessories.
Visit: www.thoumieux.fr

WE’RE SHOPPING… AESOP PARIS
When it comes to shopping in Paris, there are few places higher up our must-visit list than Aesop. Based in a gorgeous eighteenth century building close to the Palais Royal, this amazing store is packed with bottles of skincare, bodycare and haircare. We spend hours reading the labels and always leave with brimming bags.
Visit: 256 Rue Saint Honoré, Paris 75001. Call +33 (0) 14020 9614

WE’RE VISITING… RUE DU PONT LOUIS PHILLIPPE
We recommend a visit to Rue du Pont Louis Philippe - a tiny street that runs from the Rue de Rivoli to the Seine, a distance of only 200 yards. This quiet street is off the tourist track, giving you space and time to explore the tempting array of shops that feature high quality, well-designed, locally made goods, such as handbags, jewellery, stationary, and homeware. If you love art, you must visit the art galleries and photography exhibitions too.
Visit: Rue du Pont Louis Philippe, Saint Gervais.

WE’RE EATING… LA SOCIÉTÉ
All that shopping and sightseeing is going to build up an appetite – and we like nothing more than settling down to eat at restaurant-cum-jazz bar La Société, located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The interior is by acclaimed designer Christian Liagre and has a classic bistro feel, which is perfect on the coldest December evenings. You can look forward to delicious Parisian dishes that include French Onion Soup, Steak Frites, and Seafood Platters!
Visit: 4 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, Paris 75006. Call +33 (0) 15363 6060