The Greatest Little Luxury of All.
In this 4-part series of luxuries from Paris, I’ve shared a few of my favorite small indulgences—a beautiful brush discovered in a tiny shop, the irresistible chocolates that seem to appear around every corner, and the decadent luxury of a beautiful bar of soap.
But the greatest little luxury of all isn’t something I buy or bring home in my suitcase. It’s the rare gift of being completely present.
Because I’m alone in a foreign country, and my surroundings are unfamiliar enough to make me pay attention, my mind naturally slows down.
In Paris, there is something lovely everywhere you look. The architecture rises gracefully above the streets. Florists on nearly every corner with buckets of impossibly beautiful blooms. The pastry and chocolate shops, those irresistible windows filled with confections that seem to appear on every block.
It’s a feast for the eyes before you’ve taken a single bite.
And when I allow myself the time to truly notice it all, without distraction, it feels like the greatest indulgence of all. Sitting quietly in a park, watching the fountains. Noticing a bird land on a statue. Watching the light shift through the trees.
No appointments to rush to, schedules to keep, just a few stolen hours of simply being there.
Sometimes I wander into a little shop with no intention other than to look. The fabrics, books, and small treasures are displayed so thoughtfully. Just browsing fills me with creative energy. It reminds me that inspiration often arrives when we give ourselves the luxury of noticing.
I’ve been writing about some of my favorite luxuries in Paris. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the greatest gift the city offers me. It isn’t something I buy or bring home in my suitcase.
It’s the gift of being completely present.
So the next time you find yourself in Paris, I hope you’ll steal a few hours to simply be in the city. Sit in a park. Wander a street, and notice the beauty all around you.
It truly is one of the greatest little luxuries of all.
Dreaming of a trip to France? A Taste of Paris small group trips will open for registration beginning very soon. Now is the time to join the WAITLIST so you’ll be notified FIRST!!
What to expect in April 2027?
Paris FLAGSHIP — April 18 – 25th, 2027
We’ll cook and taste our way through Paris while seeing the major sites and museums. This trip is ideal for first timers and guests who simply LOVE Paris
The Loire Valley — April 9th – 15th, 2027
Cook. Sip. Chateau, repeat!! A week spent in this charming area of France will inspire and invigorate gardeners, history buffs, wine lovers, and food aficionados.
I can’t wait to welcome you to the group!
XOXO Lorie
