Merci, Merci.

Paris Fashion Week is happening right now, and suddenly the typical conversation starter becomes “Parlez-vous anglais?” Yes, apparently not many people found the need to pick up basic French. I'm not complaining though, because I'm always more comfortable with English, even if it's spoken zis way.

During this week, everywhere feels like one of the sets in The Devil Wears Prada. Packs of editors and buyers hopping from showroom to showroom in the Marais, lunch-talks are often about how the shows went, and assistants helping their seniors with coffee and coats (I'm not kidding!)

While the Tuileries and the various Palais get flocked with celebs, models, and media people, I took a step back to enjoy a quieter time at my favorite spots in Paris. Right opposite where we stayed along Boulevard Beaumarchais is a place called Merci, a retail-cafe concept store with ever-changing products and exhibits, along with a used-book cafe by the side for those who need a respite from all the shopping. This time, I was greeted by an elevated fashion installation by Bess Nielsen and several products coming all the way from India.

Photo Taken By: Anil Gawade.

Another place that I frequent all the time is Holybelly. Here, you'll find good (comfort) food, as well as coffee that'll be worth your money. My favorite is their Pancakes and Eggs which comes with two flapjacks, eggs sunny-side up and greasy bacon (yes!) all of which is drizzled in Bourbon butter and maple syrup. They do change certain items on their menu on a monthly basis, so I always visit with an open mind, in case anything suits my fancy.

After a long winter, the weather is finally turning warmer in Paris. I can't wait for spring to come in full force, I reckon the city will be much prettier then.

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