After a glorious month in France, I’ve come home with my heart full, my camera overflowing, and my suitcase suspiciously heavier than when I left (I’m blaming the cheese and wine). The first part of my trip was spent in the charming Poitou-Charentes region, where summer days melted into evenings filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and, admittedly, far too much cheese and saucisson during apéro. It was the kind of countryside escape that makes you forget about time altogether—sunny afternoons spent outdoors, simple pleasures, and a reminder of how restorative slowing down can be.
And yes, I’ll admit—I wasn’t posting as often as usual. For once, I allowed myself a real vacation. No rushing to update, no constant scrolling, just unplugging and soaking up every second. Sometimes, the best souvenir is simply the memory of being fully present.
Paris, Revisited
As promised, though, I saved my more detailed chronicling for the second half of the trip—Paris. I’ll be sharing a proper travel guide next week, but I couldn’t resist giving you a little preview now.
This time around, I didn’t load my itinerary with too many museums. Don’t get me wrong—I adore the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, but I was craving something different. Instead, I let myself wander through the city’s quartiers, letting the architecture guide me. I spent mornings and afternoons photographing facades, hidden courtyards, and sun-dappled side streets that often get overlooked when you’re rushing from one landmark to another.
Of course, I did make a stop at the Louvre—it’s impossible to resist. But the true highlight for me was the Palais Royal. It’s one of my favorite spots in Paris, a place where grandeur meets serenity. The Cour d’Honneur with its striking black-and-white columns always makes for incredible photos, while the surrounding gardens offer a more tranquil, romantic escape.
Travel Tip: Timing is Everything
If you’re planning a visit, here’s my biggest tip: arrive before 10 a.m.. The early morning light bathes the buildings beautifully, and you’ll have far fewer people in your shots. Trust me, it’s worth setting the alarm. By late morning, the space fills with tourists and locals alike, and those postcard-perfect views are harder to capture.
Fashion Meets Fall in Paris
One of the unexpected delights of this trip was getting a little preview of fall fashion. The weather in Paris was just cool enough for me to swap out my sundresses for something with longer sleeves. And, honestly, after weeks of summer heat, it felt refreshing to embrace a bit of autumn style.
I couldn’t resist a monochromatic moment. My outfit of choice: a wrap dress from ASOS that strikes the perfect balance between chic and comfortable. It’s the kind of piece you can wear now and transition seamlessly into fall. For the cooler months, I’m already picturing it with colorful tights—mustard, plum, or even teal—for a pop of personality. The best part? This dress is size-inclusive, available in sizes 0 through 26, making it a versatile staple no matter your style.
The Joy of Wandering
What struck me most this time in Paris was how much joy can be found in simply wandering. The city is endlessly photogenic, from its ornate doorways and wrought-iron balconies to its hidden courtyards and lively cafés. Some of my favorite moments weren’t planned at all—they happened when I took a wrong turn, followed the sound of music drifting from a square, or ducked into a side street just because the light hit it perfectly.
Paris has a way of reminding you that beauty isn’t only in the big, celebrated landmarks but also in the quiet, everyday details.
What’s Next
I’ll be sharing a comprehensive Paris travel guide soon, filled with recommendations for places to eat, stroll, and, of course, shop. But for now, I’m savoring the glow of this trip—both the countryside calm of Poitou-Charentes and the architectural wonders of Paris.
If this month taught me anything, it’s that a vacation doesn’t have to be packed with schedules and checklists. Sometimes the best way to travel is simply to let the place unfold around you—whether it’s a glass of wine with friends in the countryside or an impromptu photo session in a quiet Parisian garden.
Until next time, France. You were exactly what I needed.
