Category: Culture

Musee de Moyen Age, Paris
Culture, Europe, France, History, Paris

Exploring the Middle Ages at the Musee National du Moyen Age, Paris

Paris, like many European cities, is bursting at the seams with museums and galleries. Admittedly, I struggle to justify spending time indoors looking at ancient artefacts from Egypt, for example, when I’m in Paris. As fascinating as they are, how can I learn about Paris and experience the culture when I’m looking at mummies? Generally, my museum count is fairly low. There are some that … Continue reading Exploring the Middle Ages at the Musee National du Moyen Age, Paris

Genevieve Lauren4 Comments
Festivals & Events, France, Paris

Stumbling across the final leg of the Tour de France, Paris

My student exchange program in Paris coincided with the Tour de France, and many of my classmates had got up at the crack of dawn to stake out a good spot near the finish line. Me? Not so interested. I My friend Meredith and I were on our way to the Musee de l’Orangerie when we clambered out of the Tuileries metro stop to find … Continue reading Stumbling across the final leg of the Tour de France, Paris

Genevieve Lauren1 Comment
Europe, France, History

Classic cars & Relaxing in Reims

Charming Reims is a breath of fresh air after the hustle and bustle of Paris. I felt myself relax and loosen my tight grip on my handbag as I slowed down to a leisurely stroll along wide, cobbled streets. Despite being the capital of the beautiful Champagne region, the streets were quiet and the town was cloaked in a soft silence that encouraged a slower … Continue reading Classic cars & Relaxing in Reims

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Melbourne, The Arts

Free in Melbourne: Ballet in the Bowl

A recent weekend getaway was the perfect introduction to the sophisticated city of Melbourne. In a few short days I fell in love with the southern city which was bursting at the seams with boutiques, laneway cafes, and opportunities to appreciate the arts. The importance of art and culture is reflected in the myriad of boutiques where friendly shop girls know the name about the … Continue reading Free in Melbourne: Ballet in the Bowl

Genevieve Lauren2 Comments
Europe, Food & Drink, France, Paris

Eating in Paris: A Chew with a View

With so many restaurants tucked away in charming but pokey side streets or crammed in bustling boulevards, sometimes in Paris you have to take matters (and food) into your own hands. Don’t miss Paris’ five best places to eat al fresco. On the banks of the Seine Doesn’t matter if you’re left or right, the Seine is beautiful from whichever bank you sit on. Watch … Continue reading Eating in Paris: A Chew with a View

Genevieve Lauren14 Comments
Architecture & Design, Culture, Europe, Luzern, Switzerland

Postcards: Monster Murals in Lucerne

Quaint little Lucerne’s buildings are sensible shades of brown, khaki and cream. Against the grey winter skies, this would almost look a little dull were it not for the beautiful, colourful murals splashed across  buildings in the centre of town. I’ve never seen anything like it! in Australia it’s a big deal when a building is 100 years old, so buildings tend to fall into … Continue reading Postcards: Monster Murals in Lucerne

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France, History, Paris

Frozen Stories: Tripping over history in Paris

There is more to Europe than meets the eye. There is a tale on every corner because history is embedded just beneath the surface in public art and landmarks. In Paris, it’s hard not to find an old building without its historical significance duly noted in a plaque, often small and fixed on the top floor, only sharing secrets with those who are looking. Some … Continue reading Frozen Stories: Tripping over history in Paris

Genevieve Lauren2 Comments
Architecture & Design, Culture, Europe, Florence, Italy

Ponte Vecchio perspective

I found Florence instantly more likeable than Rome. The streets were quieter and the city is walkable. It was the birthplace of the Renaissance and has been a magnet for artists for centuries, who come to study the masterpieces inside the Uffizi gallery and lining the streets of Florence. The Ponte Vecchio is one of my favourite parts of Florence, although I prefer admiring it … Continue reading Ponte Vecchio perspective

Genevieve Lauren2 Comments
Europe, Food & Drink, France, Paris

A Visit to the Paris Christmas Markets

Europeans overdose on the Christmas spirit and I love it. The Christmas Markets in Paris are delightfully festive all over town. My favourite was the the Marche de Noel du Mail Branly, underneath the Eiffel Tower. Such a gorgeous sight! We left Australia on Christmas Day but I didn’t miss out on any festivities because Europe clings on to the Christmas season and carries it all the … Continue reading A Visit to the Paris Christmas Markets

Genevieve Lauren3 Comments
Europe, Food & Drink, France, Opinion, Paris

Petit-déjeuner à Paris: an ode to French bread

Parisian boulangeries have ruined me for all other bread. Yes, Rome ruined me for all other pizza, but I was never a huge pizza lover and I got over it. But bread? Dead to me. I wish it wasn’t so, but there it is. This is one of the breakfasts my Dad made one dark, winter’s morning in Paris. The photo still brings back feelings … Continue reading Petit-déjeuner à Paris: an ode to French bread

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