Finding French Inspiration – In December

I love it when I get to write the monthly French inspiration posts from France. It just adds something to the whole experience for me.

Maybe it’s because I’m feeling so inspired myself.

And I have to tell you that where we are – France’s Alsace region – would have to inspire anyone. Situated right on the border between France and Germany it is one of the most picturesque places we’ve ever visited.

But I’m also inspired this month by family. For the first time in a long time our son has joined us on a trip. I’d almost forgotten how much fun it is to travel with him – and I think it is even better now that he is an adult.

And we are visiting a part of the world with family ties for us. My great grand-father’s family came from the Alsace. And while our family lineage is recognised as German, his name Henry Franz Lorrain certainly has a decent dose of French about it. This really isn’t surprising given the region has switched between French and German ownership numerous times over the years.

I really haven’t paid too much attention to my ancestry up until now (read – paid no attention at all) but I’m thinking that after this trip, maybe I should.

Given how inspired I’m feeling, and with a little more time on my hands, I’ve been able to track down all sorts of bits and pieces of French inspiration for you this month.

I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed putting it together for you.

All things Parisian:

Let’s start this month as we always do with some things to do in Paris.

But before I get to that particular to-do list, apparently there are numerous travellers who are rethinking their trips to Paris in the wake of the Paris attacks. I thought this article from the United Kingdom’s Daily Telegraph was a good reminder as to why we should still be visiting Paris.

If you’re lucky enough to be travelling to Paris during December, you’re likely to be on the lookout for some different things to do. This month, I’ve turned again to the fabulous Judy from My French Life for advice.

Winter in Paris is a great time to take in an extra cultural experience or two. You stay warm and dry and you are almost guaranteed to learn something. With all that in mind, I thought I should also share Paris Perfect’s list of fascinating, Parisian art exhibitions. You can check them out here.

Taking in all that Parisian art may well leave you thirsty. Doni Belaus, of Girl’s Guide To Paris recently took on the entertaining task of tracking down Paris’ best cocktails. She has shared her three most outrageous Parisian cocktails with the team at Hip Paris blog. Personally, I could be tempted by the Erudite…

And if you are headed to Paris this month, don’t forget to check my advice on what to pack. And make sure you download your free packing list.

Moving on to French beauty and style:

First up, Distant Francophile favourite, Vicki Archer recently published an article on travelling and the importance of looking after your skin. Vicki’s piece was extremely timely. Not only did it remind me to take extra special care of my skin while travelling but it gave me a new product range to try while I am in close proximity to fabulous French pharmacies.

Secondly, a couple of weeks ago Huffington Post Australia shared some of Garance Dore’s style secrets which are definitely worth a read. I love how Garance injects fun into everything she does!

More gift ideas:

Earlier in the week I published another list of gift ideas for francophiles. To supplement this list, I came across A Literary Gift Guide:Top 15 Paris books by Janice MacLeod-Lik. I’ve read a few of the books on the list, including the Hemingway title. I’ll never forget buying that book – the store owner felt extremely uncomfortable selling it to me, declaring that he wasn’t too sure women should read Hemingway. You’ll be pleased to know I survived both the encounter and the book.

And a recipe:

I don’t know about you, but I love that French chicken classic Coq au Vin. However, to do it properly takes forever. That’s why I was intrigued by this seemingly simple recipe that was published recently, again on Paris Perfect. Now I’ve not tried this recipe because we’ve been travelling but I’ll definitely be interested to see how a Coq au Vin tastes with the addition of sweet potato!

Wishing you a French inspired December, wherever you are in the world.

Until next time – au revoir.