Mahya,

I arrived early..a tailwind. I lucked out again, had all 3 center row seats to myself!! Luggage arrived with me, driver was waiting with my name on a sign and we were off. My France cell phone worked when I turned it on and called Paris Perfect to say I was on my way. The gal was waiting for me in the apt. when I arrived. She helped me set up laptop, showed me everything..have free calls to US. Apt. is great...high windows, 7th floor with Eiffel Tour right out my window along with many other sights. I walked down to Le Florimond and made early (7:00) dining reservations for tonight..then I will call it a night!! All unpacked
I cannot find Rue du Rigaud.Are you sure that is right? Anyway, yes, we can get together. Lunch/dinner, what day is best for you? I am going to Spring for dinner on the 19th,but can work in another day...what interests you?

Joan

Sounds as though you're off to a great start, Joan! Keep us posted!

Sue

PS What airline had 3 middle row seats empty? What luck!

Sue,

I lucked out in April the same way...Delta...

Part of the trick is to watch online and watch for others in front of yours that are also empty. They seem to fill them front to back..also check at gate and see what is available.

I can't believe so many people wait til they get to the gate to even get their seats...

Most wonderful cross ventilation up these 7 floors...I know it will be beautiful tonight...I can't wait to eat and go to bed!!!

Joan

Joan, glad to see you arrived in Paris with no trouble, and to have three seats to yourself on the plane, how lucky!

I hope you plan to keep us up-to-date on what you're doing so we can live vicariously through you until we arrive.

Have fun, and we'll see you on the 26th.

Gina

Hello Gracejoan3,
Hope you enjoyed your first day in Paris (how's the weather?). I will be leaving in a few weeks and I am counting the minutes...

How was Le Florimond? I was thinking of putting it on my list of places to eat. Let us know the yummy details. Did you ever eat at L'Escargot Montorgueil? That's another one I was thinking of trying...
-Roberta

Hi GraceJoan,

glad you had a great flight ! And I'm glad you're there ahead of me.

How;s the weather ? cool like Fall here, or still warm?

I've only been to Paris in the Spring (April and May )both times, and found it to be coooollld. Of course being from Florida 40,50 and 60 Fahrenheit is cold for me. If it would just stay 70 it would be perfect.

Anyway Joan, I'm counting on you to report the weather before I leave next
Thursday.

I'll still be jet lagged I suppose when I arrive on the 19th - so annytime after that.

Look at the map of the 6th arr, and then look to the left of Luxembourg Gardens.

Rue du Rigaud is a tiny street,, about three blocks South and to the right of a
Monoprix.

Gosh ! I hope it exists, I already sent a deposit :)

Le Florimond is a delightful place. It only seats about 30. I believe that they have a lot of locals who know how good they are. They did have at least 2 groups of Americans who arrived before I left. A nice coupld sat next to me and were somewhat awed wih the menu and began asking me. We ended up visiting for some time. First trip to Paris and they were pleased that they had found thenselves to be in the 7th. Staying at the Hotel Walt.

When I arrived there were two tables occupied...don't know how they beat me for my early time! I did enjoy my dinner. I was then told that the woman at one of the table wanted to buy me an after dinner glass of wine...she did so, and I thanked her..a charming place and I was treated as if a long time guest..

The weather was almost hot yesterday. Rained very hard while I was dining. Early morning (8:00) grey now..temps appear to be in the mid 60's for hi's and next few days lows into the 40's. Some rain to be around. I use Yahoo weather and check the 10 day forecasts..they probably all give the same. Layered clothing!

Mahaya..are you certain of the spelling of your street? I do see a rue de Regard near the Rennes metro. Are you thinking of lunch or dinner? Simple or snazzy place? We can put something togetherwithout a problem....

a bientot, Joan

Mahaya,

I'm going to suggest this restaurant, La Folle Avoine, 91 rue de Grenelle...lunch or dinner..you choose..here is a good review to read: http://tinyurl.com/3tt6cz

It is on my list of places to try..I will call for reservation once we have decided...

Joan

This is a wonderful thread. I, too, am leaving in about 4 weeks, and although I have most of my itinerary and restaurants planned, I still a lot of work to do. I am especially interested in weather, although we all know that can be quite fickle and unpredictable. I've only been to Paris early, mid- and late summer, never fall, so this will be a challenge to pack appropriate clothing for both my husband and myself. At least I'll be able to pack some nice fall clothes (and a pair of gloves!) instead of the usual summer fare of capris and a Lacoste shirt.
Roberta (there seems to be a lot of Roberta's on this site. I'm a different one!)

Joan,
I tried to get a ParisPerfect apartment but they're still sticking to the 7 day minimum requirement. They are probably pretty filled up since the week I'm in Paris coincides with Fashion week. I'm staying in a hotel in the 7th.

Thanks for the info on Le Florimond! I may switch around my reservations since they aren't open on Sundays. L'Escargot Montorgueil may be my Sunday pick - have you or any other Fodorites eaten there?

Freberta (the other Roberta!)- I am leaving in a few weeks and will put off some packing until I check out the weather. We went to Paris 2 years ago in October and it was very warm during the day (no sweaters required). I'm hoping for another warm spell...

-Roberta

Yes, it is called layering, for sure. I actually find the Sept/Oct weather better than the April/May weather. I try to go for a month both times..Spring can be very tricky.

Beautiful but cool day today..feels good...sweater orlight coat..probably a coat tonight.

Lot of street closings today and many, many gendarmes around..they expect some 150,000 turnout for the Pope. I will just stay right here in my lovely 7th area.

Out for breakfast to Cafe Constant..stopped at the marche..caught up on some computer and paper work and the walked over to Bistro Vin Sobre on Ave Duquesne. I sat outside and had some turbot and a very nice, light squash..a fresh raspberry dessert and a glass of wine,of course! I walked back and spotted a great place that I will try in the morning for breakfast..a tea place of some sort that also serves lunch and dinner. Looked quite nice. Will have to some googleing to see what it is!

Enjoy.........

Joan

Robertal,

Yes, PP does like the 7 day...unless there just happens to be an odd period number of days that could be possible. I can forward what you posted to Madelyn (owner) and see if could help..but...the fashion time of the year is a pretty filled time to try for....

No familiar with the escargot place you mentioned...someone out there must be!!

Enjoy...

Joan, I'm looking forward to hearing your review of La Folle Avoine. It's on my list too and I'll value your input as to whether it's worth traveling for as I don't stay in the 7th.

Sounds like you're having a marvelous time!

Playfield,

La Folle Avoine is in the east part of the 7th, near Rue due Bac, and should be pretty easy to get to from anyplace. It has had quite a bit of talk about it.

I will make a reservation as soon as I hear from Mahaya re lunch or dinner.

I walked back over to Duquesne and found the little spot I had seen previously. I am going in the morning. I will check it out. It might be a discovery! Absolutely nothing on Google or Mappy..must be new. Will get all the details in the morning.

6:00 here and some cool air coming in. Will be a cool evening and early morning..feels good

a bienbtot........

Joan,

If I wanted reservations for Le Florimond on a Saturday night this October, should I contact them now or do you think it shouldn't be a problem reserving it when I get to Paris? Seems you were able to secure one the same day.

-Roberta

Robertal,

Will you be here a few days before the Sat. that you want the reservation? For no more than 4?If so, I would not think it to be a problem. If you would like, I can make it for you. I am less than a block away. They usually want your hotel name for a contact, or for you to call them when you arrive to re-confirm. I will be here til Oct. 10th.

Be happy to make the reservation for you...

a bientot....
Joan

Joan,
You are too, too kind to offer making the reservations for us! We are just so excited to be making our 3rd trip back to Paris and we try arranging dinner reservations ahead of time. Two years ago, during Fashion Week, it was difficult getting into the restaurants we wanted (not that we didn't enjoy our meals elsewhere!).

Only if you happen to be strolling by Le Florimond again, we are looking for 9:00pm reservations (for 3 people) for Saturday, October 11th. We're staying at the Hotel Duquesne. By the way, what did you eat? We love those details.

Thank you for your offer! We're taking a ladies only trip (spouses/kids not allowed) and dream of doing what you're doing (a whole month!!). Some day...

-Roberta

Roberta,

All I will need is the name! I will probably do it tomorrow.

The place where I am going for breakfast is on Duquesne..If it is good you may want to check it out..will see how close to your hotel.

You gals will have a great time!!'

You arrive the day after I leave...

Joan

Thank you again, Joan!

The reservations can be under the name "Roberta". Enjoy your breakfast tomorrow - let us know how it is!

-Roberta

Hi Joan,

I'm amazed at all the restaurants you know !

Of course you are right, the street is rue du regard where I have rented the apt for 10 days. Too too bad that it is getting so cool -
and rainy. It presents a problem for me because I only want to bring one large suitcase and a carry on, but I'm going to Nice after Paris and Athens after Nice...so I expect them to be warmer than Paris - meaning two different types of clothing - bwwwaaaa - in one suitcase ?

> I do see a rue de Regard near the Rennes metro. Are you thinking of lunch or dinner? Simple or snazzy place? We can put something together without a problem....<

Joan, I think to meet for dinner would be nice and I don't mind if it's on the snazzier side since I wouldn't go snazzy to eat alone (: - it will be wonderful to have your company (and knowledge of French menus :) lol lol,
so I leave the choice of restaurants to you. I should tell you that I have preferences for fish and veal, not so much beef, and I have chicken coming out my ears .

How about Saturday night Sept 20 ?

Before I leave the US I should receive my French cell phone and when I receive it and the French phone number I'll give it to you.

I hope it doesn't rain the whole 10 days I'm there (:
I had visions of walking through and sitting in the Luxembourg Gardens enjoying a warm sunny day.

Mahya

Hey Fodorites,

Look what I found is going on in France for Sept 20 and 21st. And for free!



Discovering the heritage of Paris For Free on 9/20 & 9/21

http://www.paris.fr/portail/english/...rtlet_id=19237


"On the European heritage days, the City Hall and most local town halls will be open to the public on 20 and 21 September. The Paris city council is offering visitors an opportunity to explore its museums, church restorations and archives free of charge as well as to enjoy a number of activities designed for the general public such as Discovery Walks, exhibitions, workshops, talks, etc.

(much more when you click on URL above)

Mahya,

How would you like to go to the l'Obelisque for dinner in the Hotel Crillon on Sat the 20th? I can make the reservations..

Joan

48 this morning...for next week similar lows and highs from low to mid 60's..with some possible showers.

Mahya and all,

We have reservations at l'Obelisque for Sat Sept. 20, 8:00. We can then go into their bar and have an after dinner cognac..or whatever..how does that sound??

I am making reservations at La Folle Avoine for Tues. Sept.16th.

I went to the little place "Flirt'The" 3,ave. Duquesne for petite dejeuner..cafe with crem, baguette, croissant, orange juice 8 euros. He also serves lunch and depending how busy may stay open til 5..his board listed about 10 different items for lunch..many salades..all in the 13 euros
area...it is a simple place!

When I stepped outside this morning mobs were heading towards Invalides for the Pope..they expect about 150,000. When I returned after breakfast you could hear all the music and I could see some stands in that direction..I am staying right here in my 7th domain today..plenty to do and places to dine.I will stop by Le Florimond for Roberta's reservations.

I was told that some rain maybe later today..will see..has warmed up for the early chill!

a bientot.....Joan

When you ladies have had enough French cuisine and want to venture out of the 6th/7th, come over to the 4th and have Italian at L'Enoteca on Rue Saint Paul, corner of Rue Charles X. Italian spoken in the kitchen and genuine dishes. Was there yesterday and very reasonably priced.

Enjoy!

s

Have been over to Grenelle and made dinner reservations at 153 Grenelle restaurant for this evening..very pretty place..met the owners..

Wandered down to Les Cocottes and ran into Christian..he speaks less English than I speak French..fortunately a nice gal could translate for us..Catherine will be there about one..I will return..I had e-mailed her that I was here.

Went into a little shop around corner on r. Augereau where I always find some small goodies..usually wooden chats..voila, another chat!!

I am making dinner reservations for Tues. evening at La Folle Avoine.

I will go up to the Marais tomorrow. Places are open on Sunday in that area.

It is quite warm out now...

Ran into the Le Florimond man..he stopped me on the street. I told him that I would be by to make a reservation for 3 gals.

a bientot...Joan

Gracejoan-

Could you please tell me if the Parisian women are wearing their fall attire yet? We will be there for a week beginning ont he 23rd and I've been following the weather and see it's been in the low 70s and 60s during the day.

Enjoying your reports. Thanks for your help.

I am seeing mixed clothing. The weather is hi 40's in the am and low to mid 60's in the afternoon..should be that way for the next week along with some scattered showers.

I am leaving in a bit to walk over to the restaurant, 153 Grenelle, which is also the address. It is a very, very pretty and small place. I will see what the ladies are wearing there...so many tourists in the area now, as usual this time of the year.

I will let you know later about all..

a bientot.....Joan

Thanks and I'll await to see what your thoughts are. I am more interested in what the Parisian women are wearing vs. Americans or other cultures. Thanks and have a great dinner.

I just returned from a great dinner at 153 Grenelle. Roberta, I know that 3 gals would really enjoy this place..lunch or dinner!!

The French women that I saw were wearing fall clothes.

It is a bit breezy out and somewhat chilly..has sprinkled a bit..trying to rain..should be down in 40's tonight...seems to warm up pretty fast....

a bientot....
Joan

Joan,
So glad (but not surprised) you had another great meal in Paris. We will definitely keep 153 Grenelle in mind. Hey, but you must include your menu choices to wet our beaks!

It's funny you ran into the owner of Florimond while walking around. From all these posts I'm reading, you seem to be our resident Parisian, especially with your up-to-date local weather reports! Details like this are valuable to those getting ready to travel!

- Roberta

Gracie Joan,

Many thanks for the weather reports. It is colder than I expected and so I'll pack accordingly.

I have my fingers crossed that I can get out of here before another hurricane forms. In truth I'm running away to France to get away from them.


>We have reservations at l'Obelisque for Sat Sept. 20, 8:00. We can then go into their bar and have an after dinner cognac..or whatever..how does that sound??<

Mon Dieu - l'elegance !!

I think I would be happy to just sit in the lounge for a few days and drink in the atmosphere.

Joan, what a wonderful way to start out my trip to Paris ! I'm already planning which little black dress I should wear - and somewhere I have an old Hermes scarf to dress up the plain coat I'll be bringing. I'm certainly looking forward to this :)

Fodorites,

I am trying to pay online for a fashion show billettt at the Galleries Lafayette for 21 Sept.

Problem: It is written only in Francais.

Some knowledge of Italian and Spanish has helped me to some extent, but I am stumped when it is asking for my Fnac and 8 number "chiffres bas adroit"
and a "FNAC"

I think it wants my credit card number, but our CC 's are 16 numbers - it cant be asking for a social security number. ....and then it wants an address
[ I suppose they only want zee French people attending this otherwise they would have written it in German and English and maybe even Japanese :) ]

Then they want your address - is that the address on the CC [if I get that far] or is it the temporary address in Paris ?

Soon, soon I will begin French language lessons in earnest - but until then,

HALP !

Mahya2,
Shall ws meet in the Hotel Crillon lobby a bit before 8:00 on the 20th??

Roberta and all,

153 Grenelle..Entree:I had a foie gras that was sauteed or (?) on top of some celery..melted in your mouth.Main: canard confit..2 plates with the duck..the 2nd had some mashed potatoes, the first one had some peas and some greens. I skipped the cheese course. Had 6 plates/dishes of various dessert items, cafe creme!

What was interesting as an American. I am using the European use of silverware more and more at home..some of each. While here I try to use it completely. Add some peas to a plate for most (?) Americans can create a fun situation! You can't push them on the back of a fork, you can't stab them very well..doesn't look nice, either...you can just decide that you really don't care for peas, and not eat them..or give up and change hands for your fork!! Last night I watched a table nearby of 4 French people. They also had the confit. The man in easy view, with the fork in fist, simply rolled it to be flat and used the knife to push the peas onto it...voila..simple..for him! Americans..go to the store and buy some frozen Birdseye peas and dump on a plate and try it!!

The European use of knife and fork can be so delicate and a joy to watch, when done so well. How did this difference happen? Most of our ancestors are from Europe. When they left the "old" world for the "new" world did they want to change the way they used their silver? I don't think it came from the American Indians. Someone out there might know.I laugh every time I think about the difference in knowing the location of the 1st floor!! Europeans reading this will be laughing.

Weather forecast for today: hi 66 and sunny..can hardly beat that!

a bientot....Joan

Roberta,

I just made your reservation for Le Florimond. Saturday, Oct. 11, 9:00 for 3 people. You do need to re-confirm upon arrival in Paris:
01 45 55 40 38.

Joan

Grace:

Really enjoy your posts! Have a wonderful stay-the perfect time to be in Paris.

Taking notes for my long weekend in December.

Joan,

I have been following your post with great interest, especially the weather conditions since I will be arriving in Paris on Friday!

Thank you so much for the up-to-the-minute correspondence!

Now I just have to get through the next 3 days at work! :-D

Lowlander,

The weather is beautiful..going to be for next 10 days..but,weather does have a way of changing...it is layered type...bright and sunny, but a bit of coolness in the air..sweater, light jacket..also depends where you are coming from!!
Joan

This little "Flirt'The" place that I found is really a find! 3, Ave. Duquesne..next door to Derby Hotel.

I have been going there for breakfast, as I previously mentioned. Today I went there for lunch. They have a board with 9 items on it..13 euros. I had a grilled chicken, which was a drumstick/thigh, a flan des legumes(excellent)along with a nice green salad, bread, of course,a glass of wine and then an apple and berry crumb dessert..total 23.50!! Simple, tables a bit crowded, some outside, very clean and neat and most friendly owner. Is open til maybe 5, depending on business..he does tea and dessert..cooks on the healthy side..not too much sugar, etc....keep it on your list.

Joan

Gracie-Joan,

I haven't received the phone in the mail yet, but they tell me the number for Europe is 06-25-36-85-85 and I expect to arrive at the apartment some time after 11 AM.

Mahya