For both business and pleasure I needed to be in different parts of Europe recently and decided it was the perfect opportunity to embark on my version of a “Grand Europe Tour”. Historically, the Grand Europe Tour was the custom for younger members of the British aristocracy during the 17th-19th century, which comprised of a lengthy trip through central Europe. The Tour was regarded not only as a rite of passage but also an invaluable component of a classical education.

PARIS

First stop is Paris where our days are focused on fashion, art, returning to familiar haunts and discovering new ones. We then spend our evenings indulging in some of the best restaurants Paris has to offer.

Le Voltaire, located steps away from the Musée d’Orsay on the left bank is famous for traditional, elegant yet creative cuisine. As one of our favorite restaurants it’s usually our first stop and helps us get into a Parisian frame of mind by way of an authentic dining situation. With one seating you can settle in for the evening without worrying about giving the table back after 90 minutes, typical in New York.

After doing some damage in Dior, Phyllis and I needed a bit of a breather…

The sculpture garden at Dior, Avenue Montaigne

Visiting Dior it turns out is about much more than mere shopping with its own museum, restaurant and art collection to discover and admire.

Messrs Dior and St Laurent momentarily share the same screen in the Dior Museum

I’m a huge fan of La Tuile A Loup, the pottery shop owned by Eric Goujou and have wanted to visit for the longest time. I’ve been following this emporium of unique handmade pottery created by artisans throughout France for the past couple of years and was thrilled to finally make it to the shop. Dmitri, the manager was in the middle of packing and shipping oh-so-many boxes bound for the US, but never the less took the time to help me find some beautiful pieces that were then added to the collection of boxes to be shipped out. So worth the visit…to learn more about Eric and La Tuile A Loup read my blog posted in June 2020 here.

With Dmitri, the manager - *La Tuile a Loup*

You’re spoilt for choice with artisanal pottery options - *La Tuile a Loup*

If chic and of the moment is your thing and it’s certainly mine, Hōtel Costes will meet your needs. It’s my first time and can’t believe it took me so long to visit. Decorated with the elegance and finesse Jacques Garcia is famous for, the public rooms are chic, timeless, moody and dramatic. I found inspiration in every corner from the dining room to the bathrooms. Food’s great too - have lunch in the courtyard!

*Hötel Costes* bar becomes spectacularly seductive at night

Mirror image of me taking it all in - *Hötel Costes*

Next stop is Italy…