blog-posts

Discover the inside scoop on the latest events in Paris, hottest shopping and dining spots, travel tips, best Paris tour experiences, exclusive offers and latest news from the Paris Perfect team.

5 Bookstores Every Book Lover Should Visit In Paris

November 30th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

If Midnight in Paris is anything to go by, Paris is arguably the greatest literary city in the world. Between its poets and philosophers, novelists and playwrights, this city is a historic melting pot of famous thinkers and revolutionary ideas. Where else could you discuss existentialism in the seats of Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre, or pay your respects at the graves of Molière and Proust? … Read More

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10 Magical Christmas Light Displays To See In London

November 30th, 2017 by London Perfect

Are you feeling festive yet? We are! At London Perfect, we are loving the Christmas lights in the city. It’s the most magical time of the year in London and mesmerizing light displays are everywhere. Every year, the streets of London are decked out with dazzling Christmas lights of all shapes, sizes, and colors. From the shopping districts of Oxford Street to the Kew Gardens, almost every popular spot is decorated in festive attire. … Read More

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The Merlot Apartment: An Amazing Small Home Remodel in Paris

November 28th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

Fifteen years ago, owners and now good friends, purchased the Merlot apartment. Named after the wonderful red grape from Bordeaux, the stunning views merited the name of this rich red wine. Ten years ago, they were thrilled when the Fine Living Network called the Merlot apartment,“The most romantic apartment in Paris.”In June 2016, we helped the owners put the perfect finishing touches on it after a comprehensive renovation. … Read More

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The Perfect Way To Buy London Theater Tickets

November 28th, 2017 by London Perfect

At London Perfect, we can help you find the very best deals and score tickets to the hottest West End shows. Who wants to spend time standing in ticket lines? Why not book your tickets in advance, and rest assured you’ll get to see the best theater shows during your London vacation. Visit the London Perfect Theater Tickets website to find out what’s on during your stay. … Read More

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9 Luxury Department Store Dining Spots In London

November 24th, 2017 by London Perfect

Black Friday is here! With the biggest sales now on (read our blog on the best of the Black Friday deals) and Christmas shopping underway, London’s luxury department stores are extra-alluring, with their bevy of bargains and glitzy window displays. Harrods, London’s iconic store, is said to boast 11,000-12,000 lights as part of its renowned Christmas decorations – meaning around 300 bulbs are changed daily. … Read More

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A Guide to Shopping in Paris’ Covered Passages

November 24th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

It’s Black Friday, so we’ve got shopping on our minds. As the days shorten and the weather gets colder, seek refuge in one of Paris’ enchanting passages couverts. These traditional antique shopping arcades are hidden in scattered locations across the 9th, 2nd and 1st arrondissements. With eclectic offerings from second-hand books and stamp collections to designer Louboutin’s, here are some of our favorite secret spots. … Read More

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Where To Shop For Candles In Paris

November 21st, 2017 by Paris Perfect

To the untrained nose, candle shopping in Paris might seem like a no-brainer. But with so many diverse and intoxicating scents to sniff, from honeyed tobacco to Mexican orange blossom, it’s difficult to know where to begin. Here’s a handful of our top recommendations, so you can come up smelling of roses (or maybe lavender – whatever your preference). … Read More

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Rome Pasta Favorite: Cacio e Pepe

November 20th, 2017 by Italy Perfect

Will we ever run out of delicious foods to enjoy while in Rome? The answer: Never! While there are obvious Roman classics like spaghetti alla carbonara, the humble yet delicious cacio e pepe – a long-time favorite among Romans, is worthy of equal praise. ‘Cacio’ is pecorino in the Roman dialect, and pepe means pepper … Read More

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London’s Top Shopping Destination This Black Friday

November 20th, 2017 by London Perfect

London’s top shopping destination, Oxford Street, offers a whole host of inspiration for you this Black Friday. It’s one of the busiest shopping streets in London, but that shouldn’t put you off enjoying all the great bargains on offer. At London Perfect, we have done the hard work for you and have rounded-up some of the very best shopping deals at the most beloved UK stores. … Read More

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We Talk To Tulio Galinda At Fortnum & Mason’s 45 Jermyn St.

November 16th, 2017 by London Perfect

At London Perfect, we have a penchant for Fortnum & Mason, the legendary brand. The epicurean’s dream department store with its luxury hampers and fanciful afternoon teas is the home for gorgeous, quality goods. A royal supplier, Fortnum’s holds warrants from HM The Queen and HRH The Prince of Wales. 45 Jermyn St. is the handsome fine dining establishment which is part of the landmark store, offering a suitably swoonsome experience. … Read More

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Paris’s Best Crème Brûlée

November 16th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

Remember the scene from Amélie where Audrey Tautou ponders life’s little pleasures? One of them is cracking into a luscious crème brûlée. A rich and creamy vanilla-laced custard covered in a crisp sugar shell, it’s hard not to love the classic French dessert. It takes time to perfect this sublime dessert and while it’s a staple in Paris, it isn’t that easy to find a first-rate version of the scrumptious treat. … Read More

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Lorette & Jasmin: Vintage Designer Shopping

November 14th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

Looking to find a really special designer piece while in Paris? Look no further than Lorette & Jasmin, an alluring consignment store (dépôt vente in French) in the heart of the chic 16th arrondissement. At Paris Perfect, we also have a host of guided shopping tours for those that want a more expert-led option. Specializing in high-quality second-hand clothes, this is the place to find a real bargain. … Read More

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7 Sunday Roasts In London

November 14th, 2017 by London Perfect

The Sunday roast: a British staple and tradition with an estimated 1.4 billion eaten annually. What could be more comforting in colder climes than a mountainous plate of tender meat, crispy Yorkshire puddings (now that’s another blog) roasted vegetables and buttery mashed potatoes, drenched in a rich gravy? When it’s paired with a local ale in a toasty pub, a happy marriage occurs. … Read More

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Magical Holiday Celebrations in Florence

November 13th, 2017 by Italy Perfect

Experience an enchanting holiday with friends and family in Florence where you can participate special holiday events, fine dining and the art and history of Florence.  A family holiday while staying at an apartment in Florence allows people with different interests to head in different directions following their own stars, yet you come together for … Read More

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Five Christmas Gift Ideas From Paris

November 10th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

Starting to write your Christmas shopping list? Gone are the days when two turtle doves or a partridge in a pear tree would have sufficed for festive gifting. Originality is everything in gift-giving this holiday season (think monogrammed velvet slippers and personalized perfumes). But if you’re in Paris, you’re in luck – it’s the best city to discover unique treasures and custom gifts, unavailable back home. … Read More

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The Finnish Rooftop Sauna At London’s Southbank Centre

November 9th, 2017 by London Perfect

Heard of hygge? The Danish term for “coziness” is pronounced “hoo-ga” – to be precise. Hygge is best described as a lifestyle, promoting wellness. As the winter evenings start, it’s time get on board with the concept. The temperature may have dropped, but there’s no reason not to feel cozy. When we heard about the one-of-a-kind Finnish sauna opening on the rooftop of the Southbank Centre as part of the Nordic festival running through 2018, we had to investigate.  … Read More

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Incredible Savings At The Winter Sales In Paris

November 9th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

It’s that time of year again! Yes, it’s already time to start planning your Paris trip to take advantage of the amazing winter sales (or soldes in French) from January 10th to February 20th, 2018. Snag the latest French fashion must-have items, statement accessories, and stylish homewares with steep discounts of up to 70% off the original prices. Pack your travel bag and bring an empty suitcase – you’ll need it. … Read More

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Floris: Perfumer To The Queen

November 7th, 2017 by London Perfect

When it comes to creating customized fragrances, Floris has it covered. The perfumer to the Queen knows a thing or two about it, after receiving a royal warrant back in 1820. Floris offers an array of fabulous in-house scents and a unique bespoke service. A customized perfume session is a thoughtful Christmas gift: choosing the right notes is a complex process, but creating a new, personalized scent is a fascinating experience. … Read More

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The Best-Kept Parisian Shopping and Style Secrets

November 1st, 2017 by Paris Perfect

As Maria Callas, the influential opera singer said: “Paris dictates fashion to the whole world.” We know Paris is one of the best cities in the world for fashion, but where to begin? With so many incredible stores, how do you maximize your shopping time? We enlisted some of Paris’s top fashion experts on our tours, helping to uncover the city’s best-kept shopping secrets. … Read More

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Favorite Easy Italy Souvenirs – from the Supermarket

October 31st, 2017 by Italy Perfect

You’ve had a wonderful vacation in Italy and at the end of your trip you suddenly realize that you need to bring back a little something for the neighbor who took in your newspaper and watered the plants, the friend who gave you a ride to the airport, your cleaning person, your hairdresser and the … Read More

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Fall And Winter Special Offers On London Apartments

October 31st, 2017 by London Perfect

Now is the time to plan an incredible getaway to London with our spectacular Fall and Winter Special Offers. The city provides a whole host of exciting activities for all the family to enjoy, including world-renowned museums, picturesque parks, boutique shopping and Michelin-starred dining. Read on to find out more! … Read More

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Paris Hits New Record as Prices Continue to Surge

October 30th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

It’s official: Paris real estate is hot right now. The market is sizzling, according to new sales records and surging prices in 2017. A recent report by Notaires confirmed sustained price rises across the Île-de-France region between July 2016 and July 2017, where apartments have increased by 5.2% and houses by 2.2% on average. Paris represents a significant proportion of these accelerated growths. … Read More

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Harry Potter: A History Of Magic

October 26th, 2017 by London Perfect

The newly-opened British Library exhibit, Harry Potter: A History of Magic is the hottest ticket in town for fans. Visitors can experience the true magic of Harry Potter, immersing themselves in previously unseen artifacts including drafts and drawings by JK Rowling, as well as illustrator, Jim Kay. Join our Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour, which covers the most famous sights from the movies. Spellbinding! … Read More

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Braving The Catacombs And The Dark Underworld Of Paris

October 26th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

Labyrinthine subterranean passages, chilling tales of macabre carryings-on and spooky anecdotes of bones transported across the city. As Halloween approaches, what better time of year to take a deep breath and plunge into the depths of the sinister Catacombs sixty feet below the surface of the bustling Parisian streets? Avoid the eternally long lines, and join us for an intrepid visit to the largest necropolis in the world. … Read More

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London Real Estate News

October 25th, 2017 by London Perfect

During October, the market has continued to be price sensitive and attractive properties priced realistically are selling. Buyers can afford to be very choosy – it’s vital to only buy a solid property without major flaws—as when there is a downturn, these still sell. Prime central London prices are down 15.2% from the peak in 2014, according to Savills Research … Read More

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Six Fantastic Museum Exhibitions To Look Out For

October 24th, 2017 by London Perfect

At London Perfect, we’re excited about the glut of new exhibitions underway this season. Our artful London Perfect apartments are just a wander from the biggest (and best) museums: there’s really no need to trek too far to see the latest art installation. We round-up some of the best displays on offer, including the much-awaited debut of Harry Potter: A History of Magic. … Read More

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Affordable Shopping In Paris

October 24th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

Chic, high-end and enviably couture: ‘affordable’ isn’t something that springs to mind when thinking about shopping in Paris. However, you may be pleasantly surprised. We’ve handpicked some stores where you can get voguish brands year-round at a fraction of the price. Whether you’re searching for the best designer consignment stores, discounted beauty products, or simply clothing that won’t break the bank, we’ve got every option covered. … Read More

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Our Team Share Their Favorite Festive Activities

October 18th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

“Paris is always a good idea” – said Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina. This, we know. However, it’s magnificent in winter. There are trees draped in fairy lights, pretty festive markets, and a Christmas ambiance like no other city. Even better, many things are actually open on Christmas Day. Starting in early December the main shopping streets – and pretty much all of the stores – start putting up their Christmas decorations, giving Paris a glitzy makeover. … Read More

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Spooktacular Spots In London This Halloween

October 18th, 2017 by London Perfect

London’s sinister side always comes alive in October with lots of spooky Halloween activities. Little ones will enjoy ‘Boo at the Zoo’ which includes a chance to see the wild and wonderful animals at London Zoo. There’s also a brewing at Balthazar with delightful Balthoween treats and eerie surprises. However, don’t miss out on the ghoulishly good cocktails at Café Royal. … Read More

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The Finest Discounted Beauty Products At City Pharma

October 16th, 2017 by Paris Perfect

Looking to bring home some of the finest French beauty products but don’t want to break the bank? Then you have to visit City Pharma, the only discount parapharmacy in Paris. A parapharmacy is a wonderful hybrid: a regular pharmacy, beauty and homeopathy store, all rolled into one. It’s where French women buy the bulk of their fabulous hair and skin care products, alongside regular painkillers and prescriptions. … Read More

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