tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28756371441004796942024-03-28T10:19:30.048+01:00.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger542125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-51010824433831847372013-12-17T16:35:00.000+01:002013-12-17T16:35:44.560+01:00I have moved!<div style="text-align: center;">
This blog will no longer be updated.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please visit me at my new site: <b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://jasminetartine.com/">jasminetartine.com</a></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XlxP_kwZrQ/UrBfuFXNfvI/AAAAAAAAC0E/6IJipn2lwxc/s1600/webpage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XlxP_kwZrQ/UrBfuFXNfvI/AAAAAAAAC0E/6IJipn2lwxc/s1600/webpage.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been updating there for some time now... Recent posts include cafe recommendations, a lovely and easy chocolate truffles recipe and of course, snippets of my life in Paris. There are still kinks to be ironed out but do come visit. A bientot!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-87201678070515962222013-11-27T12:07:00.003+01:002013-11-27T12:07:41.140+01:00<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sorry for the radio silence... I have been posting articles over on my new blog but still ironing out kinks before I shift permanently there.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hopefully it will be this weekend so visit again soon! xx</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YuRUJqVAEGE/UpXSHaVCtZI/AAAAAAAACyA/EEOeTams3ac/s1600/IMG_3343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YuRUJqVAEGE/UpXSHaVCtZI/AAAAAAAACyA/EEOeTams3ac/s1600/IMG_3343.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-57217330884523707552013-11-19T11:05:00.002+01:002013-11-19T11:05:36.942+01:00Autumn wardrobe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hlUlOxKo4kg/Un6dvDa6Z-I/AAAAAAAACwQ/h6Lh_yCQmMA/s1600/Image+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hlUlOxKo4kg/Un6dvDa6Z-I/AAAAAAAACwQ/h6Lh_yCQmMA/s640/Image+4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JQ5rw4hFd4/Un6dvBtRf7I/AAAAAAAACwo/ySg5i84h3TY/s1600/Image+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JQ5rw4hFd4/Un6dvBtRf7I/AAAAAAAACwo/ySg5i84h3TY/s640/Image+5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AVwXixzJflw/Un6dvxR1AbI/AAAAAAAACws/d-qikBrjxrY/s1600/Image+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AVwXixzJflw/Un6dvxR1AbI/AAAAAAAACws/d-qikBrjxrY/s640/Image+7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7prSmBFSvc/Un6dvCKuL1I/AAAAAAAACwk/AHA6OeA_x8g/s1600/Image+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7prSmBFSvc/Un6dvCKuL1I/AAAAAAAACwk/AHA6OeA_x8g/s640/Image+6.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-1549769290338876702013-11-12T21:38:00.000+01:002013-11-12T21:38:00.185+01:00La Chambre aux Oiseaux<div style="text-align: justify;">
Spending time in Paris' many charming cafes has become a way of life for the moment and this makes me a very happy girl. There's nothing better than a hot cup of coffee or tea with a slice of cake when the cold autumn winds are blowing strong outside and the rain turns everything in Paris wet and grey.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLloUzCREmg/Un6Pj5MWzLI/AAAAAAAACvw/Y4Mv2L50Qfo/s1600/IMG_3424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLloUzCREmg/Un6Pj5MWzLI/AAAAAAAACvw/Y4Mv2L50Qfo/s1600/IMG_3424.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A charming tea-room in the Canal St. Martin district, La Chambre aux Oiseaux joins a slew of cafes in this neighbourhood already well-known for <a href="http://champagnepout.blogspot.fr/2013/10/ten-belles.html" target="_blank">Ten Belles</a> , Tuck Shop (great vegetarian cafe opened by Australians) and Cafe Craft. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uFKDwXfELGk/Un6O3KUYFII/AAAAAAAACvc/p_5BDhgliL0/s1600/IMG_3474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uFKDwXfELGk/Un6O3KUYFII/AAAAAAAACvc/p_5BDhgliL0/s1600/IMG_3474.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Here, the owners have taken care to create an old-school cosy atmosphere with beautiful wallpaper, old wooden tables and well-worn armchairs; one immediately feels right at home.. or perhaps even in your granny's home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eR9wHWffNAc/Un6O2QBlO_I/AAAAAAAACvY/U_9Q1V3AjC8/s1600/IMG_3482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eR9wHWffNAc/Un6O2QBlO_I/AAAAAAAACvY/U_9Q1V3AjC8/s1600/IMG_3482.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It is the perfect place to enjoy a slice of orange almond cake (as I did) and a hot cup of tea while savoring a book and watching the world go by. I finished Salvation of a Saint by Keigo Higashino while comfortably ensconced in a sofa by the window.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFJsVdmQqws/Un6SFy7BGyI/AAAAAAAACv8/cO3r3o7nPD8/s1600/IMG_3481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFJsVdmQqws/Un6SFy7BGyI/AAAAAAAACv8/cO3r3o7nPD8/s1600/IMG_3481.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-87607957701319750002013-11-10T19:13:00.003+01:002013-11-10T19:13:47.114+01:00Cafe Craft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bWX4vzoucIU/Un_MGiBBprI/AAAAAAAACw8/_amhwHOlcvk/s1600/IMG_3384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bWX4vzoucIU/Un_MGiBBprI/AAAAAAAACw8/_amhwHOlcvk/s1600/IMG_3384.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RILXKFTdjmk/Un_MGseW3jI/AAAAAAAACxA/rEJsd45fjQg/s1600/IMG_3396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RILXKFTdjmk/Un_MGseW3jI/AAAAAAAACxA/rEJsd45fjQg/s1600/IMG_3396.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another new kid on the Canal St Martin block with free wifi and great coffee. I also had an excellent matcha cake. The premise is simple and responsible – 3 euros per hour, deductible against coffee and cake. Sounds like a good and fair deal to me!</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RILXKFTdjmk/Un_MGseW3jI/AAAAAAAACxM/CgxKpbGCFAA/s1600/IMG_3396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RILXKFTdjmk/Un_MGseW3jI/AAAAAAAACxM/CgxKpbGCFAA/s1600/IMG_3396.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-1495890213252666052013-11-09T23:58:00.000+01:002013-11-09T23:58:00.256+01:00A day in Picardy<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">France is a beautiful country & autumn is the best season to experience the French countryside in all its glory. We visited the grandmother of my husband last weekend in the Picardy region & had a field day discovering old castles & military cemeteries. History is always alive in France. But here, it lives on in the land… the Somme département suffered terribly during the first World War where a few hundred thousand soldiers died heroically for the country.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qh5ge_i-PHI/Un5Z6iFRIrI/AAAAAAAACvE/qeud7frjYX0/s1600/IMG_3209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qh5ge_i-PHI/Un5Z6iFRIrI/AAAAAAAACvE/qeud7frjYX0/s1600/IMG_3209.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 24px;">Chateau de Couin.</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H7qj-V_Z36s/Un5Z5Ccv5jI/AAAAAAAACvI/JhmM_Ms2-dc/s1600/IMG_3168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H7qj-V_Z36s/Un5Z5Ccv5jI/AAAAAAAACvI/JhmM_Ms2-dc/s1600/IMG_3168.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Berthencourt Military Cemetery. It stood regal and undisturbed, nestled amongst hectares of rolling hills and farmland. Reading the tombs of the young men who fell during the war definitely lent a sombre note to the day.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JwWcp2i1kjs/Un5Z5piupkI/AAAAAAAACvA/8ljvT43XfnA/s1600/IMG_3187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JwWcp2i1kjs/Un5Z5piupkI/AAAAAAAACvA/8ljvT43XfnA/s1600/IMG_3187.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chateau de Huné, hidden deep in a forest..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LXa0RcE9JtU/Un5Z3VagEYI/AAAAAAAACuY/ROPBXEmMJGA/s1600/IMG_3124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LXa0RcE9JtU/Un5Z3VagEYI/AAAAAAAACuY/ROPBXEmMJGA/s1600/IMG_3124.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And my favorite, the Chateau de Vadencourt, at the centre of a family conflict, stood forgotten and unkempt, but looked like it came right out of a fairytale!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I6MR_wok40Q/Un5Z3zJD91I/AAAAAAAACug/yhAzBhP6GF0/s1600/IMG_3131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I6MR_wok40Q/Un5Z3zJD91I/AAAAAAAACug/yhAzBhP6GF0/s1600/IMG_3131.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zaViayhR5q0/Un5Z5KE1SxI/AAAAAAAACu0/c-YZXuEtwnc/s1600/IMG_3149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zaViayhR5q0/Un5Z5KE1SxI/AAAAAAAACu0/c-YZXuEtwnc/s1600/IMG_3149.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The abandoned greenhouse of my grandmother-in-law which fed a family of 12 children! A vestige of the glorious past that no one could bear to tear down.</span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-13266596083538269672013-11-09T16:14:00.001+01:002013-11-09T16:15:30.393+01:00Musée Jacquemart-André<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FhWPV-2-Bos/Un5QQt6vVRI/AAAAAAAACtc/M1vzTueSvmM/s1600/IMG_2423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FhWPV-2-Bos/Un5QQt6vVRI/AAAAAAAACtc/M1vzTueSvmM/s1600/IMG_2423.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If there was one museum in Paris which I find the prettiest no matter how many times i’ve been, it’s undoubtedly the Jacquemart-André museum. The only advice is to arrive early at opening time as it’s the favorite museum of retirees (or so my husband claims).</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FuMU-77YBlk/Un5QSLJGJGI/AAAAAAAACto/eIXlkJfFObM/s1600/IMG_3219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FuMU-77YBlk/Un5QSLJGJGI/AAAAAAAACto/eIXlkJfFObM/s1600/IMG_3219.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;">The magnificent entryway invites you to discover in all its splendor, the passion shared by the couple who owned this mansion and later donated it to the Institut de France after their deaths. Edouard André and Nelie Jacquemart amassed a vast collection of art and sculptures during their life, mostly Italian but</span><em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"> quelle beauté!</em></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V0x4AlD7Th0/Un5QRgXvnUI/AAAAAAAACtk/4bbeq760txg/s1600/IMG_3245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V0x4AlD7Th0/Un5QRgXvnUI/AAAAAAAACtk/4bbeq760txg/s1600/IMG_3245.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">After the visit, have lunch or tea at the café which fills up within minutes and there’s always a long line. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The cakes and tarts are DELICIOUS and the service always friendly and quick.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5GJaFGeR3Q/Un5QXgQeRFI/AAAAAAAACt0/VlO9LXg09ww/s1600/IMG_3292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5GJaFGeR3Q/Un5QXgQeRFI/AAAAAAAACt0/VlO9LXg09ww/s1600/IMG_3292.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IE5VrWeZ_LE/Un5QXpIYifI/AAAAAAAACt4/tYQkYG7EawU/s1600/IMG_3298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IE5VrWeZ_LE/Un5QXpIYifI/AAAAAAAACt4/tYQkYG7EawU/s1600/IMG_3298.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The next time you find yourself in Paris, don’t forget to put this on your list!</span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-37700509826617799892013-10-30T17:05:00.000+01:002013-10-30T17:05:00.526+01:00Sofia, BulgariaBulgaria is one of those countries which never makes it to anyone's must-do list and I'm the first to admit that I would never have entertained the thought of visiting this place had my sister not pushed me to join in for 4 days of her trip with her husband. And as we often say, never be too quick to judge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKlpX4YKs8c/Um_M33mbGbI/AAAAAAAACr4/a2wLB6Uz6kE/s1600/IMG_2887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKlpX4YKs8c/Um_M33mbGbI/AAAAAAAACr4/a2wLB6Uz6kE/s1600/IMG_2887.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I conjured up images of crime and danger and a generally backward city before I left but once I arrived in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, it only took a few hours to realise how horribly wrong I was. True, the remnants of the Soviet Union were still present in the grey buildings and the general reticence of the older population but Sofia is a cosmopolitan city emerging from the shadows of the past and I was so glad to have visited it when it was still generally uncommercialised. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--87xTaWFVPg/Um_M7FDenGI/AAAAAAAACsY/c0VdFNOYoVo/s1600/IMG_2963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--87xTaWFVPg/Um_M7FDenGI/AAAAAAAACsY/c0VdFNOYoVo/s1600/IMG_2963.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sofia is generally safe and modern comforts are aplenty. Tap water comes from the mountains and is safe to drink. The metro stations are clean and spacious, a far cry from those in Paris. The younger generation speak good English and are so friendly and warm, offering help whenever they see someone looking lost. The prices were also very affordable; hotels and food cost less than half of those in Paris. We got decent restaurant meals for less than 10 euros each.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0FYiGZ3gdE/Um_M6Ej61tI/AAAAAAAACsQ/sOZaOed4cD0/s1600/IMG_2940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0FYiGZ3gdE/Um_M6Ej61tI/AAAAAAAACsQ/sOZaOed4cD0/s1600/IMG_2940.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sofia is nestled at the foot of the Vitosha mountains and it provided a spectacular landscape for our city walks.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YquDCVLGvXg/Um_M5dQPlHI/AAAAAAAACsI/6ranl__qPAs/s1600/IMG_2923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YquDCVLGvXg/Um_M5dQPlHI/AAAAAAAACsI/6ranl__qPAs/s1600/IMG_2923.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Alexander Nevsky cathedral - built in memory of Russian soldiers who liberated Bulgaria from Ottoman rule.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbiJk9itzlQ/Um_M8ZZ7hyI/AAAAAAAACsg/MzdZ4Ii19kI/s1600/IMG_2979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbiJk9itzlQ/Um_M8ZZ7hyI/AAAAAAAACsg/MzdZ4Ii19kI/s1600/IMG_2979.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also drove out of Sofia to visit the Rila monastery, one of many monasteries dotting the nearby mountains. The view of the mountains and small villages along the mountain roads were something I never expected of Bulgaria.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A51d6l3xjmg/Um_M-t_uL2I/AAAAAAAACsw/1RXXiJBiRA8/s1600/IMG_3024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A51d6l3xjmg/Um_M-t_uL2I/AAAAAAAACsw/1RXXiJBiRA8/s1600/IMG_3024.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nestled at 1147 metres amongst coniferous forests, the Eastern Orthodox monastery is a sight to behold with intricately painted frescoes and courtyards with mountain views. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HqnK1-Yx0cA/Um_M-lPDX7I/AAAAAAAACss/AEhVcxboDu8/s1600/IMG_2999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HqnK1-Yx0cA/Um_M-lPDX7I/AAAAAAAACss/AEhVcxboDu8/s1600/IMG_2999.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After this, I had to return to Paris (rather unwillingly at this point) while my sister & her husband continued on east to Plovdiv, a more authentic Bulgarian city and then on to the Black Sea coast.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Definitely going to put this country on my list of places to revisit!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-71224764100258162972013-10-29T15:55:00.001+01:002013-10-29T15:59:32.785+01:00Weekend in EssaouiraSorry for the lack of updates... my autumn has been filled with weekend trips either around France or to nearby cities. I am happy to be home enjoying some quiet time at last!<br />
<br />
We had the chance to discover Essaouira, a coastal city in Morocco where we spent a weekend doing some thalassotherapy and eating lots of Moroccan food. Thalassotherapy uses seawater to massage the body either with jets of water or in massage baths; it also involves the use of algae and mud wraps. It was simply a very relaxing experience as we've been unbelievably busy with renovation works in the apartment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hU0l79-9Q6c/Ul07fp0DRNI/AAAAAAAACqw/byjwDTEur2U/s1600/IMG_1549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hU0l79-9Q6c/Ul07fp0DRNI/AAAAAAAACqw/byjwDTEur2U/s1600/IMG_1549.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VhalzrFgMEQ/Ul07gX3G2YI/AAAAAAAACq8/it4YQ9jTLYU/s1600/IMG_1670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VhalzrFgMEQ/Ul07gX3G2YI/AAAAAAAACq8/it4YQ9jTLYU/s1600/IMG_1670.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We stayed at the L'Heure Bleue Palais, a hotel built over 3 years from an abandoned orphanage and which stood regally at the corner of the old medina. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j9oHqEUqo-0/Ul07ly9pcAI/AAAAAAAACrE/u4_JaLy3nTY/s1600/IMG_2818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j9oHqEUqo-0/Ul07ly9pcAI/AAAAAAAACrE/u4_JaLy3nTY/s1600/IMG_2818.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JYfv2iKdr-w/Ul07f99C0iI/AAAAAAAACq0/amImja6CM8I/s1600/IMG_1699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JYfv2iKdr-w/Ul07f99C0iI/AAAAAAAACq0/amImja6CM8I/s1600/IMG_1699.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPLbbhHwnno/Um_M_kuQmoI/AAAAAAAACs0/p_wMfPLyl7A/s1600/photo+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPLbbhHwnno/Um_M_kuQmoI/AAAAAAAACs0/p_wMfPLyl7A/s1600/photo+1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XJ_veebhcDY/Ul07m6THW7I/AAAAAAAACrM/tFjFr3h3-gs/s1600/IMG_2866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XJ_veebhcDY/Ul07m6THW7I/AAAAAAAACrM/tFjFr3h3-gs/s1600/IMG_2866.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The medina was a complex labyrinth of shops selling silver jewellery, wooden crockery, fried fish, kilim rugs and sweet cakes. I was not a big fan of the medina but had to admit that the energy on a Saturday night was addictive. There were vendors selling fresh almond milk and families milling around, enjoying the sea breeze. It was perfectly normal to see sheep being wheeled in barrows to the abbatoir, alongside giggly schoolgirls, sinister-looking men and the odd Caucasian tourist.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yvEcNDTnVmA/Ul08Jzrff1I/AAAAAAAACrc/NmcSFICwEls/s1600/photo+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yvEcNDTnVmA/Ul08Jzrff1I/AAAAAAAACrc/NmcSFICwEls/s1600/photo+4.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tit-ih2EXSM/Ul088IrIlDI/AAAAAAAACrk/EXADIRyBMqA/s1600/photo+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tit-ih2EXSM/Ul088IrIlDI/AAAAAAAACrk/EXADIRyBMqA/s1600/photo+6.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And of course the coast lived up to its reputation as a kite-surfing paradise... for us, it was enough to just sit on a rock with our well-massaged bodies and watch the seagulls fly over our heads. x</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-88135584680013993312013-10-11T20:00:00.000+02:002013-10-11T20:00:00.585+02:00Still my favorite...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WxykXY3BCoE/UlQL0ZLndNI/AAAAAAAACqM/gTe7A1lbBdw/s1600/IMG_1472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WxykXY3BCoE/UlQL0ZLndNI/AAAAAAAACqM/gTe7A1lbBdw/s1600/IMG_1472.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_-FlpTTx6Y/UlQL0XxlD4I/AAAAAAAACqI/ZRJzWjKWOGQ/s1600/IMG_1477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_-FlpTTx6Y/UlQL0XxlD4I/AAAAAAAACqI/ZRJzWjKWOGQ/s1600/IMG_1477.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-44553707952520296002013-10-10T15:37:00.000+02:002013-10-10T15:37:00.190+02:00Autumn days<div style="text-align: center;">
We have been staying at my mother-in-law's place in the countryside since our apartment is still undergoing renovation. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Fr5R16IXLU/UlQKb86_6JI/AAAAAAAACp8/SHhbnJiAU64/s1600/IMG_1445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Fr5R16IXLU/UlQKb86_6JI/AAAAAAAACp8/SHhbnJiAU64/s1600/IMG_1445.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This means slow mornings, soft autumn light and delicious home-cooked dinners. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNyXt53tKdg/UlQJy74FF9I/AAAAAAAACp0/iHGLdq39x80/s1600/IMG_1182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNyXt53tKdg/UlQJy74FF9I/AAAAAAAACp0/iHGLdq39x80/s1600/IMG_1182.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And also time to slowly savor Kinfolk. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The images are beautiful but the writing is what makes it my favorite magazine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-62557973312234605522013-10-09T15:27:00.000+02:002013-10-09T15:27:00.134+02:00Dinner chez les amis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8M-TpSPR6YI/UlQIHVKtT5I/AAAAAAAACpg/Rh09I5trHTM/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8M-TpSPR6YI/UlQIHVKtT5I/AAAAAAAACpg/Rh09I5trHTM/s1600/photo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MG794iymKI/UlQIJzCiE2I/AAAAAAAACpo/QUQPc304EEg/s1600/IMG_1373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MG794iymKI/UlQIJzCiE2I/AAAAAAAACpo/QUQPc304EEg/s1600/IMG_1373.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-15130370745407115862013-10-08T14:48:00.000+02:002013-10-08T14:48:04.974+02:00Ten Belles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wyr2J6vGB5o/UlP-3XKXMnI/AAAAAAAACpQ/JT50gQ22Nf4/s1600/IMG_1241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wyr2J6vGB5o/UlP-3XKXMnI/AAAAAAAACpQ/JT50gQ22Nf4/s1600/IMG_1241.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ten Belles is a great place to get your caffeine fix when you are in the Canal St Martin area. None of that Parisian bitter diluted coffee here! You get a good strong brew, friendly people and a charming open concept. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8eFh0p-8ycQ/UlP6ydnmDzI/AAAAAAAACpE/0LiT7h1hvYg/s1600/tenbelles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8eFh0p-8ycQ/UlP6ydnmDzI/AAAAAAAACpE/0LiT7h1hvYg/s1600/tenbelles.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sharing a windowsill!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iWkvCO_RFUA/UlP6xb5AiVI/AAAAAAAACo0/-Un4Mhr62o0/s1600/IMG_1279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iWkvCO_RFUA/UlP6xb5AiVI/AAAAAAAACo0/-Un4Mhr62o0/s1600/IMG_1279.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-90542756428130334552013-09-25T22:00:00.000+02:002013-10-08T15:50:40.323+02:00The Plain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A simple cafe serving one of the most delicious coffees in Singapore.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7WYyReIZoYo/UkFoYgJmcMI/AAAAAAAACoM/z_cC_-RDnR4/s1600/IMG_0849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7WYyReIZoYo/UkFoYgJmcMI/AAAAAAAACoM/z_cC_-RDnR4/s1600/IMG_0849.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCPLwYGroc8/UkFoY9MiFAI/AAAAAAAACoU/1sIWkTadQ3g/s1600/IMG_0855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCPLwYGroc8/UkFoY9MiFAI/AAAAAAAACoU/1sIWkTadQ3g/s1600/IMG_0855.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7f8XIsffsLU/UkFoYyGJuHI/AAAAAAAACoQ/5iHSjsnQeXk/s1600/IMG_0821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7f8XIsffsLU/UkFoYyGJuHI/AAAAAAAACoQ/5iHSjsnQeXk/s1600/IMG_0821.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-31716807993439719172013-09-24T12:17:00.001+02:002013-09-24T12:17:21.028+02:00Chinatown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chinese lanterns from the Mid-Autumn Festival last week frame the iconic Sri Mariamman temple in Chinatown. Love the colors!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qi0L7H3MhmE/UkFk2pEt-WI/AAAAAAAACnc/fjdAJNJhTAE/s1600/IMG_0872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qi0L7H3MhmE/UkFk2pEt-WI/AAAAAAAACnc/fjdAJNJhTAE/s1600/IMG_0872.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-13ikCeEBeis/UkFk1pX2CCI/AAAAAAAACnU/WhyqQ9Pb3b0/s1600/IMG_0884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-13ikCeEBeis/UkFk1pX2CCI/AAAAAAAACnU/WhyqQ9Pb3b0/s1600/IMG_0884.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M_WHIUXoIvw/UkFk6evg6aI/AAAAAAAACns/rWnKqcatHB4/s1600/IMG_0885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M_WHIUXoIvw/UkFk6evg6aI/AAAAAAAACns/rWnKqcatHB4/s1600/IMG_0885.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GuvfE-y5GP4/UkFk6tt2wEI/AAAAAAAACnw/A5PfWlzUcAg/s1600/IMG_0886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GuvfE-y5GP4/UkFk6tt2wEI/AAAAAAAACnw/A5PfWlzUcAg/s1600/IMG_0886.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-6471988556846483302013-09-22T20:29:00.004+02:002013-09-22T20:33:11.200+02:00F1 Singapore Grand Prix<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Every year since 2008, Singapore hosts the Grand Prix, the only night race on the F1 calendar. During the 3-day event, roads are closed, tourists fly in, parties are held and the whole nation generally gets into a frenzy because well, it's hard NOT to pay attention to it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The noise is deafening beyond words and the atmosphere is electrifying. Plus the race is set amidst the colors of the city skyline.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qm6FV0GTYTY/Uj8yABo4n2I/AAAAAAAACmo/fCNtwJdFb-8/s1600/IMG_2609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qm6FV0GTYTY/Uj8yABo4n2I/AAAAAAAACmo/fCNtwJdFb-8/s1600/IMG_2609.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3kZPzyTvu5E/Uj8zOQ2K3BI/AAAAAAAACm8/McfzYvJgXV8/s1600/IMG_0732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3kZPzyTvu5E/Uj8zOQ2K3BI/AAAAAAAACm8/McfzYvJgXV8/s1600/IMG_0732.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-ZLSOjNoVw/Uj8yAJdFG5I/AAAAAAAACms/HyJuLN2-Nvk/s1600/IMG_2602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-ZLSOjNoVw/Uj8yAJdFG5I/AAAAAAAACms/HyJuLN2-Nvk/s1600/IMG_2602.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gxZMS3R0nZA/Uj8xfGCu7AI/AAAAAAAACmc/un0001Ej6aE/s1600/IMG_2756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gxZMS3R0nZA/Uj8xfGCu7AI/AAAAAAAACmc/un0001Ej6aE/s1600/IMG_2756.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Red Bull and Mercedes? Couldn't tell... the cars were so fast they zoomed past in a fraction of a second.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-brYk7ZgimV0/Uj8xfAqrFBI/AAAAAAAACmY/lDTleUTz0YE/s1600/IMG_2780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-brYk7ZgimV0/Uj8xfAqrFBI/AAAAAAAACmY/lDTleUTz0YE/s1600/IMG_2780.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And of course, dinner before at Gluttons Bay is a must.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hm13Fhd8pLk/Uj8zOemVenI/AAAAAAAACnA/luX0PfL8yAY/s1600/IMG_0727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hm13Fhd8pLk/Uj8zOemVenI/AAAAAAAACnA/luX0PfL8yAY/s1600/IMG_0727.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CO9ZewAXHiA/Uj8zO-2T4WI/AAAAAAAACnI/nTM7SoQNx44/s1600/IMG_0729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CO9ZewAXHiA/Uj8zO-2T4WI/AAAAAAAACnI/nTM7SoQNx44/s1600/IMG_0729.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-92175149224395324822013-09-20T19:14:00.002+02:002013-09-20T19:14:51.001+02:00Hoshino Coffee's pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6HjgRZzbtGk/UjyB8TlsiYI/AAAAAAAACmA/HPNC3J2i07M/s1600/IMG_0230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6HjgRZzbtGk/UjyB8TlsiYI/AAAAAAAACmA/HPNC3J2i07M/s1600/IMG_0230.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
are the best way to pass a quiet afternoon by yourself. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been so busy meeting up with friends and settling family matters that these few weeks literally flew by! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I return to Paris next week and summer would have gone just like that. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-55362748422912287672013-09-15T07:51:00.001+02:002013-09-15T07:51:55.368+02:00Lunch with Ralphie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My friend cooked lunch for me & another brought her dog along. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy days are made of these :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ycUnlCSVvHc/UjVKigxO8PI/AAAAAAAACls/4pi4xMzeW6Q/s1600/IMG_0080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ycUnlCSVvHc/UjVKigxO8PI/AAAAAAAACls/4pi4xMzeW6Q/s1600/IMG_0080.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sxtCXFZP0R8/UjVKh9QMM7I/AAAAAAAAClk/jgEGDulhnhI/s1600/IMG_0150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sxtCXFZP0R8/UjVKh9QMM7I/AAAAAAAAClk/jgEGDulhnhI/s1600/IMG_0150.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-79058497890497759982013-09-06T17:33:00.000+02:002013-09-06T17:33:00.472+02:00Snapshots of Singapore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Duxton hill //</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Coffee at Group Therapy //</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Delicious dim sum - fried carrot cake, char siew pastry, lotus leaf glutinous rice & many more //</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Colorful tropical fruits //</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Song Fa bak kut teh (pork rib soup) //</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yes, a Singaporean's heart is never too far from food and we are spoilt for choice here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_HVmHD4jJA/UiX_o-RAipI/AAAAAAAACj8/Kjf-fIVWSNI/s1600/IMG_9514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_HVmHD4jJA/UiX_o-RAipI/AAAAAAAACj8/Kjf-fIVWSNI/s640/IMG_9514.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XGff0E-gBH8/UiX_pQvY2uI/AAAAAAAACkI/HhlkDhTbxq4/s1600/IMG_9572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XGff0E-gBH8/UiX_pQvY2uI/AAAAAAAACkI/HhlkDhTbxq4/s640/IMG_9572.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y_mKbVaaIYQ/UiX_n8xyxjI/AAAAAAAACj0/_5AtbIiyrUk/s1600/IMG_9545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y_mKbVaaIYQ/UiX_n8xyxjI/AAAAAAAACj0/_5AtbIiyrUk/s640/IMG_9545.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BvVYpApVY4E/UiX_oXpkLVI/AAAAAAAACj4/t8OeGEcXFOw/s1600/IMG_9454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BvVYpApVY4E/UiX_oXpkLVI/AAAAAAAACj4/t8OeGEcXFOw/s640/IMG_9454.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvo1Smg0hNE/UiX_rguGb-I/AAAAAAAACkY/HuT0BNNqR6E/s1600/IMG_9638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvo1Smg0hNE/UiX_rguGb-I/AAAAAAAACkY/HuT0BNNqR6E/s640/IMG_9638.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jVkYiYPQ4o/UiX_rY3ZwPI/AAAAAAAACkU/mwR6QqgC270/s1600/IMG_9628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jVkYiYPQ4o/UiX_rY3ZwPI/AAAAAAAACkU/mwR6QqgC270/s1600/IMG_9628.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-46370314432469019392013-09-03T17:19:00.001+02:002013-09-04T19:36:03.522+02:00Wedding diary III - Attire<div style="text-align: justify;">
One thing I noticed about French weddings in general was the bride's simple approach & attitude towards the dress. It was not uncommon for a bride to wear Repettos and a loose slouchy dress, traipsing in the fields with her beau. I rather loved this attitude & while I enjoy seeing Singaporean brides with their huge princess-y elaborate gowns & grandiose ballrooms, I knew it was not what I wanted nor was it me. We just wanted everything to be simple & elegant. In fact, none of my 2 dresses had a single embellishment on them.<br />
<br />
And instead of getting an elaborate updo, I chose to keep my hair natural. Some of my friends were worried I was being too slipshod haha.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another thing I noticed about French weddings was the guests' attire. I have seen in Singapore, how some guests actually out-dress the bride at the dinner banquet, decked out in the sexiest gowns. I think that is pretty rude, seeing as it is the bride's day to shine.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My husband was amused & reassured me that no well-brought up French would think of usurping the bride's glory on her day by turning up in a long gown or a sexy dress. And it turned out to be true. We saw smart pantsuits, wrap dresses and sharp jackets; no one was there to see and be seen.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And with all the wedding stress, I was grateful that the dress I chose, a long simple column gown was not too simple after all :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uuo-AaLCbKQ/UiX9VM4bBFI/AAAAAAAACjY/j501XY4whzk/s1600/cocktail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uuo-AaLCbKQ/UiX9VM4bBFI/AAAAAAAACjY/j501XY4whzk/s1600/cocktail.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0000ee; text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mh7-qZKVZmA/UiX5FPcTy4I/AAAAAAAACjE/KMO2rgCGRw4/s1600/Photo00537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mh7-qZKVZmA/UiX5FPcTy4I/AAAAAAAACjE/KMO2rgCGRw4/s1600/Photo00537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mh7-qZKVZmA/UiX5FPcTy4I/AAAAAAAACjE/KMO2rgCGRw4/s1600/Photo00537.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Yl1NWKowZo/UiX918SXqPI/AAAAAAAACjk/qrISarZ3dCM/s1600/LEF1894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Yl1NWKowZo/UiX918SXqPI/AAAAAAAACjk/qrISarZ3dCM/s1600/LEF1894.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-87404295435692555172013-09-02T19:13:00.000+02:002013-09-03T17:20:37.281+02:00La Jasoupe<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were in Burgundy to attend a friend's wedding & thought to extend the stay over a long weekend because, quite frankly, we love any excuse for a holiday.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Tk5KlOvzDk/UiTCfdNXAhI/AAAAAAAAChs/r-7DprKxtQU/s1600/IMG_2454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Tk5KlOvzDk/UiTCfdNXAhI/AAAAAAAAChs/r-7DprKxtQU/s1600/IMG_2454.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So we did some research online & found this charming holiday cottage called La Jasoupe near Beaune, the wine capital of the region. After a 4-hour drive from Paris, we were greeted by a huge shaggy dog and the owners who had just come back from holiday. They were kind enough to make dinner reservations on our behalf so we were not left stranded in Beaune on a Friday night. Which we quickly realised could have been our fate, as tourists and locals love dining out.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0857jatTOmI/UiTCil8sLTI/AAAAAAAACh0/6HgM0xf_W6g/s1600/IMG_9104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0857jatTOmI/UiTCil8sLTI/AAAAAAAACh0/6HgM0xf_W6g/s1600/IMG_9104.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gvgz_H6FQvg/UiTFQb4oYbI/AAAAAAAACic/51lmc-wTJAA/s1600/IMG_9096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gvgz_H6FQvg/UiTFQb4oYbI/AAAAAAAACic/51lmc-wTJAA/s1600/IMG_9096.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--HNRzL03NYQ/UiTClxhyzjI/AAAAAAAACiM/f3-aib4YnhU/s1600/IMG_9143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--HNRzL03NYQ/UiTClxhyzjI/AAAAAAAACiM/f3-aib4YnhU/s1600/IMG_9143.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We were so pleased with our room that we didnt want to leave it ever! Well except to go to the pool which looked so inviting in the morning AND evening sun.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6meFLZIGk-M/UiTCdsVQrnI/AAAAAAAAChk/HbHvLWW7BPA/s1600/IMG_2385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6meFLZIGk-M/UiTCdsVQrnI/AAAAAAAAChk/HbHvLWW7BPA/s1600/IMG_2385.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They even had chickens, rabbits and horses on the compound! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NifYaa99-6A/UiTFQpjSYXI/AAAAAAAACig/PG8N5HFhDpQ/s1600/IMG_9117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NifYaa99-6A/UiTFQpjSYXI/AAAAAAAACig/PG8N5HFhDpQ/s1600/IMG_9117.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the place so much. Every single detail was well thought of and perfect. Furnishings were vintage looking but modern. The breakfasts served were delicious. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aRgqm8TcunU/UiTCbrXD31I/AAAAAAAAChc/xCei6Tf_b6c/s1600/IMG_2440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aRgqm8TcunU/UiTCbrXD31I/AAAAAAAAChc/xCei6Tf_b6c/s1600/IMG_2440.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BD0bG8XVhsQ/UiTCkJ60mnI/AAAAAAAACiA/PgO77aNl8ig/s1600/IMG_9126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BD0bG8XVhsQ/UiTCkJ60mnI/AAAAAAAACiA/PgO77aNl8ig/s1600/IMG_9126.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
On the last day, we took a walk around the pond and felt so sad to leave!! Being Bordeaux fans, we tried to justify a trip to Burgundy the next time just to stay at this hotel again. Luckily Beaune is just nearby; it was breathtakingly beautiful. The unity in architecture was intact and well-preserved. Here we are at the Hospices de Beaune which was built by a chancellor in 1443 as a hospital for the poor.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1GgpiNp6p0/UiTClZZlyTI/AAAAAAAACiI/snIB6-_UyRk/s1600/IMG_2499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1GgpiNp6p0/UiTClZZlyTI/AAAAAAAACiI/snIB6-_UyRk/s1600/IMG_2499.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-91944290574602586452013-08-28T20:41:00.003+02:002013-08-28T20:41:32.484+02:00Golden vineyards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JeKrkbUzMHA/Uh411cyv0LI/AAAAAAAACgc/z1pjskXJKUQ/s1600/IMG_2337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JeKrkbUzMHA/Uh411cyv0LI/AAAAAAAACgc/z1pjskXJKUQ/s1600/IMG_2337.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFX05BbjIYc/Uh411WvKleI/AAAAAAAACgY/JPUsn3odFxQ/s1600/IMG_2345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFX05BbjIYc/Uh411WvKleI/AAAAAAAACgY/JPUsn3odFxQ/s1600/IMG_2345.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GCi_X18Sk20/Uh411wThlsI/AAAAAAAACgg/ZZ1aJMIywxA/s1600/IMG_2358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GCi_X18Sk20/Uh411wThlsI/AAAAAAAACgg/ZZ1aJMIywxA/s1600/IMG_2358.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DmF2fZ9mcUk/Uh414BLH-RI/AAAAAAAACgw/SD0XzDhceGk/s1600/IMG_2364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DmF2fZ9mcUk/Uh414BLH-RI/AAAAAAAACgw/SD0XzDhceGk/s1600/IMG_2364.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-20587825609140239352013-08-21T23:03:00.001+02:002013-08-21T23:03:12.260+02:00<div style="text-align: center;">
The month of August is quiet in Paris... The city is practically dead and most Parisians are away on holiday. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmwoXE_whoc/UhUpG3e7b8I/AAAAAAAACfw/aVMGqn9hPIo/s1600/1151011_10151899370444673_1831020029_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmwoXE_whoc/UhUpG3e7b8I/AAAAAAAACfw/aVMGqn9hPIo/s1600/1151011_10151899370444673_1831020029_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eyde2qPzODY/UhUp1q3VCgI/AAAAAAAACf8/Snyck7p3tKY/s1600/1185082_10151899370824673_1525975214_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eyde2qPzODY/UhUp1q3VCgI/AAAAAAAACf8/Snyck7p3tKY/s1600/1185082_10151899370824673_1525975214_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We spent some time in Normandy, as we do every summer with the family, just eating, walking by the beach, gardening and playing some sports. This weekend, we will be off to Burgundy for a friend's wedding. Plus the apartment needs to be emptied & packed for the renovation work in September... And next week I'm going home to Singapore for a whole month! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Needless to say, this space might be empty for a while... But do check back from time to time as I will be launching my new blog very soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great summer! xx</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-20631417912767288362013-08-10T17:00:00.000+02:002013-08-10T17:00:00.630+02:00On holiday... See you soon!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k95FBaQBbuY/UgS1d2AwzSI/AAAAAAAACfQ/1xmvQaIn5pc/s1600/IMG_8392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k95FBaQBbuY/UgS1d2AwzSI/AAAAAAAACfQ/1xmvQaIn5pc/s1600/IMG_8392.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2875637144100479694.post-26156964252726982162013-08-09T11:24:00.003+02:002013-08-09T11:24:39.362+02:00Morning ritual<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLQSSynXFac/UgS1O1RldTI/AAAAAAAACfI/8z8pBaNrldc/s1600/IMG_8470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLQSSynXFac/UgS1O1RldTI/AAAAAAAACfI/8z8pBaNrldc/s1600/IMG_8470.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2