Antique Adventures Part 1: Uncovering Paris's Hidden Treasure with a Local Expert

One cold and rainy Sunday afternoon, I discovered the famous antique shops with my new Parisian friend, who took me on this adventure. They are a must-visit the next time you are in Paris! They are about 20 minutes north of the city center.

To get there, take the metro to Porte de Clignancourt in the 18th arrondissement and walk for approximately 10 minutes. You'll be in a unique place in Paris: one of the largest antique markets in the world. Nestled in the city's beauty, it's a sight to behold.

On this particular day, gray clouds covered the city, sprinkling light silver drops in plain sight. My adventure for the day starts with afternoon tea. My Parisian neighbor invited me for afternoon tea at her apartment, two floors up and with a much better view than my temporary home. I found out she is not only my neighbor, but also the building owner of where I am staying, and her apartment in Paris is her home away from home. She currently resides in Switzerland but visits Paris often. Right away, I recognized my new Parisian friend was a businesswoman; she proudly told me that she owned the building, so in broken English, she said, "This I can call mine, only mine." Suddenly, I am transported to my childhood by a memory of something my mom would say to me growing up, expressed in a different context, "Education is something no one can ever take away from you." I could hear the resemblance between what my new Parisian friend was saying and what my mom said, of the sentiment to acquire that which is only yours, the thing you worked too hard to obtain, no longer floats as an idea but as a tree representing growth and ownership. Representing the effort and perseverance required to achieve knowledge and skills that are profoundly personal that changes you for the better.

Her elegance and sophistication exude; I realize she is a high-society woman. She highlighted the lack of Botox or fillers, and she liked to say, "She was all-natural." She walked and talked like a social elite—maybe she was, maybe she wasn't.

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As she opens her apartment door to greet me, I am welcomed by the cutest furry baby, reminding me how much I miss what I no longer have and how much love I still have to give. His name was Pucci, and he was so happy to welcome me; I could feel his happiness.

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After sharing pleasantries during our afternoon tea, gazing out the window facing the busy streets, and getting to know each other better, we discovered a few things in common: a strong work ethic, a love for coffee, a passion for espresso martinis, an affection for dogs, and experiences with divorce. She realized she had two broken hearts in her living room, and we agreed that it was time to explore the charming streets of old Paris, one of her favorite hobbies when visiting.

À bientôt ..... look for Part 2