Paris Cooking Class: L’Atelier des Chefs
Part reward, part an opportunity to put our French to the test, when I was studying in Paris, my French teacher took our whole class to L’Atelier des Chefs. It is one of my favourite experiences from the trip because it was an unusual experience that I didn’t expect to have, and because I love cooking. The class was conducted in French, but luckily the … Continue reading Paris Cooking Class: L’Atelier des Chefs
Brunch in Melbourne: Two birds, One stone
Brunch is my favourite meal because it combines the frivolity of a fancy breakfast (no room for sensible-shoes sandwiches) with the generous servings of a hearty lunch. Essentially, larger doses of delicious-but-not-neccessarily nutritious food enjoyed in no particular hurry at all. In an ideal world, every day would begin with a leisurely brunch. I can’t be sure, but I have a suspicion that one of … Continue reading Brunch in Melbourne: Two birds, One stone
Why the French are rude (to you)
If I had a dollar for every time I heard “But the French are so rude!” I would finally be able to fund my dream of living in Paris. Paris is perfect, it’s just the people. Right? I disagree. I’ve met rude French people, but I’ve met rude people from all sorts of cultural backgrounds. People are rude, it’s not a domain the French rule exclusively. In … Continue reading Why the French are rude (to you)
Underground Rome: Capuchin Crypt
The Capuchin Crypt in Rome makes the Parisian catacombs look like a walk in the park. Underneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione, the small crypt is not easy to find but is worth the effort. After walking past the church several times, we asked for directions and finally found the crypt. Photography is banned inside the crypt, so I have none, although there … Continue reading Underground Rome: Capuchin Crypt
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
Brisbane takes off
Buzzing with events, fine food, diverse nightlife and culture, Brisbane is a sleepy little town no longer. Brisbanites have caught on, but it has taken the citizens of Sydney & Melbourne a little longer. As Brisbane continues to bloom, it seems that the rest of the country – and the world – are finally getting the message. I was at a dinner a few weeks … Continue reading Brisbane takes off
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
11 Queensland Trip Ideas
It’s a feeling that has been growing, slowly but surely over the past few months. My job has let me discover the best of the Queensland, the state I lived in for my entire life yet have often failed to notice. Admittedly, my discoveries occur in an office in the city, using the Internet, email and telephone calls to connect with other places and hear … Continue reading 11 Queensland Trip Ideas
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
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