Hidden Gems of Paris: La Flottile, a Gourmet French Restaurant in the Château de Versailles

La Flottile is a charming brasserie located at the center of the Château Versailles Estate, which showcases traditional French gourmet cuisine at its finest. You can dine at the restaurant, or  you can order take away, if you would enjoy having a picnic on the estate grounds. The service is prompt with delicious food, and …

Hidden Gems of Paris: Coin Pop, a Convivial Restaurant in Oberkampf

Nestled in the heart of Oberkampf, one of Paris’s most vibrant and eclectic districts, Coin Pop is more than just a restaurant. It’s a community hub, often hosting art exhibitions, concerts, and private gatherings, blending culinary delights with cultural experiences. Overlooking a small square, it is loved by locals and visitors alike, boasting a 4.8-star …

Hidden Gems of Paris: Cafe L’Industrie Brasserie, a Traditional French Restaurant in Bastille

Café de L’Industrie Brasserie is a traditional French restaurant known for its retro bistro décor and convivial atmosphere. The menu features classic, generously portioned dishes from the French terroir—think steak frites, braised lamb, and crème brûlée—served from morning through late night. Often overlooked, it’s a reliable spot for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch in the …

Hidden Gems of Paris: Sucré Coeur, an Innovative Pâtisserie in Montmartre

Sucré Coeur is a pâtisserie in the heart of Montmartre, which blends tradition with innovation. In this Sucré Coeur Montmartre pâtisserie review, we explore how its exquisite pastries—each as visually stunning as they are delicious—are created. From delicate lime and basil-infused treats to rich, velvety brownies, every bite reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and …

Hidden Gems of Paris: Shakespeare and Company, a “Must Visit” Bookstore in the Latin Quarter

Once a hidden gem for literary drifters, Shakespeare and Company has transformed into one of the most visited bookshops in the world. Tucked beside the Seine, across from Notre-Dame, it formerly was the kind of place you stumbled upon—where aspiring writers could sleep among the shelves, and curious readers could discover poetry by candlelight. Today, …

Incognito in Europe – a Journey of Self Discovery!

Travel with Erik Taylor on his ‘Grand Tour’ as he journeys incognito into self-discovery, while seeking out the hidden gems in some of Europe’s most iconic cities. First stop? Paris! This is the first in an Accidental Travel Writer series. Fasten your seatbelts!   After what was possibly one of my worst years ever, I …

Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe with Mocha Mascarpone and Cherry Jam – a Celebration in Every Bite!

Looking for the perfect chocolate layer cake recipe? Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, a promotion, or just indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe for Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake with Mocha Mascarpone Frosting and Cherry Jam Filling will be a celebration in every bite! Your Next Showstopper Dessert Imagine moist, decadent chocolate cake infused …

How to Improve on Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

Every holiday season, Starbucks rolls out Cranberry Bliss Bars. And who doesn't like them? And if you want to try making a similar cranberry dessert at home, you will be spoiled for choice. The Internet is flush with recipes for cranberry bars. More precisely, a Google search for "Starbucks cranberry bliss bars recipe"  yielded 1.9 …

Apple-Orange Cranberry Sauce with Bourbon

Looking for a cranberry sauce recipe to liven up your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner? Not only does this homemade recipe for apple-orange  cranberry sauce with bourbon call for apples and oranges. In addition, there is a splash of brown sugar bourbon, which adds an undeniable kick. And some other secret ingredients! And it can be …

Beauty and the Beast Castle Debuts at Tokyo Disneyland

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As Disney celebrates the 29th anniversary of the release of the feature cartoon, Beauty and the Beast, a castle inspired by Le Chateau de Chambord in France opens at Tokyo Disneyland. It is part of the biggest expansion of the park since it opened in 1983.