The Joy of Shopping - French Culture
I didn't realize I had fallen for Paris until, tout a coup, I found myself saying, "I'm happy here. I can't imagine being anywhere else in this moment." Like the timid approach between new lovers, one discovering the other, my tepid feelings [... more]
Bella Online |
Champagne! - French Culture
France in the 1700's was ruled by Marie Antoinette, the original "material girl." When she wasn't frolicking in the bucolic gardens of Versailles, she was hosting all sorts of soirees that featured fabulous food, entertainment and wine. Perhaps [... more]
Bella Online |
History in a Portrait - French Culture
I take pleasure in rifling through the contents of dusty old boxes, sifting treasure from trash. I've come to know family I've never met through photographs. Some I've rescued from curbside trash piles, the black and white images gazing back at ... [... more]
Bella Online |
A Parisian Patisserie - French Culture
Paris means many things to many people: for some, it's the ultimate romantic destination. For others, it's the place to go for haute couture. But for many, it's the pinnacle of gastronomic delights. While it's true that French cuisine is ... [... more]
Bella Online |
Dine Like the French - French Culture
Friendships are maintained by invitations extended to dine ensemble. While sipping wine and enjoying artfully presented plates, conversation is cornerstone. Around the intimacy of the table a certain connaissance is forged. With a rendez-vous ... [... more]
Bella Online |
Café Culture - French Culture
Paris, once trumpeted "the city of waiters," at some point has undergone a priority shift. Dining has evolved into negotiating the laboriously slow service of a meal via an aloof garcon. Still, tact must be applied to evasively dine amongst the [... more]
Bella Online |
The Macaron - French Culture
Since living in France, no meal is complete without a dessert après. With smaller portions distributed into actual courses, there is always a place left for something sweet. Though, I had avoided macarons for some time remembering the coconut ... [... more]
Bella Online |
Once Upon a Tart - French Culture
Sounds like a fairytale and on sunnier days my life in France does seem to resemble one. But in the midst of another long winter all I want to do is curl up near the radiator. As an alternative to hibernating during these winter months, I suggest ... [... more]
Bella Online |
The Privilege of Driving in France - French Culture
Arrive with your rental car reservation and a valid permit and keys are happily handed over to you, no questions asked. Decide to set up residence and the day your shiny carte de séjour, the visa that extends your stay beyond 3 months, arrives ... [... more]
Bella Online |
