Welcome to March everyone.
I just love it when March rolls around. March heralds the beginning of autumn in Australia – and anyone who has been reading Distant Francophile for a while will know that autumn is my favourite season.
I adore the light. I marvel at the changing colours. I love warm days and crisp evenings. I just can’t wait to start unpacking my ankle boots and my coats. And I’m thrilled about the fact that I can start to put hearty food back on the dinner menu. Yep, it is fairly safe to say that I’m passionate about autumn – and therefore excited about the fact that it is March.
Of course, if you happen to be visiting France – or lucky enough to be in France – you’ll be celebrating the start of spring. While it is a challenging season to pack for, spring can be just delightful in France, especially Paris. In fact, Paris is famous for its spring-time beauty.
But regardless of where you are in the world, March is a great month for French inspiration if my internet research is anything to go by. I’ve tracked down all sorts of reading and viewing for you this month. Enjoy!
On Paris
In Distant Francophile tradition, we’ll start with looking at what is on in Paris during March. This month, I’ve returned to Paris Perfect for all the hints and tips. I’m somewhat intrigued by the Carnaval des Femmes – it wins my vote for the most unusual festival of the month.
Given the weather is only just warming up in Paris, you’ll probably still want to spend a bit of time indoors. Paris’ fabulous museums are an obvious choice for cold weather entertainment. And the great news is that you don’t even have to venture out for lunch! Yes, many of the museums also offer quality eating options and the team at Bonjour Paris recently compiled a list of the top options. You can check out all your options right here.
The fabulous Vicki Archer has been a source of inspiration for me for such a long time. Her writing has evolved over time, moving from regular pieces on France to a website that brings us the very best of style and beauty. Every now and then though, she delights francophiles with a piece on France. Recently she shared her thoughts on Paris – and I couldn’t resist passing them on to all of you.
On France
It probably goes without saying that our travel plans are regularly influenced by my internet research. And I’ve got to tell you, I love a good list. I’m forever reading lists – like this one – that recommend villages to visit. For the record, we loved Riquewihr and are looking forward to visiting Annecy and Saint-Émilion this year.
On video
I’m not overly into videos (I can never be bothered getting up to find my head phones, and the men in my household scowl when I play videos aloud), but this one is short and sweet and guaranteed to make you smile. It also highlights the difference between French and American cultures brilliantly.
On style
Proving the French style tips never date, this Marie Claire article from a little while back is a snappy reminder about the best of French style.
On French Culture
I’m a bit odd when it comes to superstitions. I happily walk under ladders and open umbrellas inside all the time but there is no way that I will put new shoes on a table. Don’t ask me why I honour some superstitions and completely ignore others – I think it has something to do with being raised by one superstitious parent and another that wouldn’t even know what superstitions are! (Love you Mum and Dad.) On top of this, I am endlessly fascinated by superstitions held by others. So naturally I was drawn to this article on French superstitions…needless to say, I’ll be taking more care with baguettes into the future.
Finally this month, Scott and I were thrilled to be featured in this piece from Paris by Heart. A big thank you to Sabrina and the team for highlighting our work.
Wishing you an amazing March – no matter where you are in the world.
And until next time – au revoir.
