Mitali Sagar and Summiyya Patni, co-founders of the House of MISU, are lovers of fashion and art. Which is why Paris, the city of lights, tops their list of favourite cities. The duo gives us a low-down on their Parisian adventures where they chronicle their entire journey, right from the luxurious hotel they stayed at to their lavish high-tea experience. If you’re planning a trip to Paris, then this is your ultimate to-do list, as told by Summiyya and Mitali.
Where to stay
Looking for a luxurious hotel that’s right in the heart of Paris? Hotel Le Belmont is that and more — situated a stone’s throw away from iconic destinations like the Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Avenue George V and Avenue Montaigne, the hotel will sway you with its oriental-inspired interiors and Romantic-style rooms and suites. “When a hotel goes from being a hotel to a home, it leaves a mark. The bilingual staff were warm and hospitable; the breakfast was perfectly Parisian; the rooms were cosy without feeling like a matchbox, like those tiny rooms Paris is famous for,” say Summiyya and Mitali.
Where to pamper yourself
Jean-Claude Biguine, the founder of Jean-Claude Biguine Salon & Spa, brought the art of grooming to Paris in 1982, and has since become the French capital’s favourite salon. Summiyya and Mitali visited the JCB headquarters in Paris and met the jovial founder himself. “The salon is grand and full of natural light. But what really blew us away was the lightning speed at which the hair stylists and nail technicians worked with precision,” the girls say.
Yet another stop for the ultimate pampering session is at Le Lobby in The Peninsula Hotel. “The High Tea at the hotel was simply exquisite, as was the hotel — the interiors transported me back to La Belle Époque with its gilded ceilings, immaculate service and enchanting live music,” says Mitali.
Where to eat
If you’re craving Parisian food, Summiyya and Mitali recommend restaurants Chez André and Miss Kô. And if you had fine dining in mind, a 7 course French meal at La Table d’Eugène will knock your socks off. “Le Grenier à Pain has succulent sandwiches and pastries and is located near one of my favourite spots, Sacré-Cœur,” says Summiyya. For a fun night scene, head to Le Marais, where you can choose from a variety of bars and cafés.
Where to shop
Paris, the city of lights, always has something fancy up its sleeve. “Avenue Montaigne is a gorgeous street to walk down and it’s less crowded than the Champs-Élysées. It also hosts some of the best designer stores. Galeries Lafayette is an iconic department store which is worth a visit. While you’re there, make sure you catch the view from the top of the store,” says Mitali. “La Vallée Village is another must-visit spot. Located close to Disneyland, it looks like a village straight out of a story book with its painted little cottages and narrow cobbled stone streets,” she adds.
What to do
If you’re looking for some entertainment, head to the Grévin Museum. “Rub shoulders with wax statues of famous world leaders, fashion icons and notable actors. And while you’re at it, ensure you check out their light installation show,” says Mitali. The Perfume Museum is another recommendation by the girls. “Our experience was a sublime marriage of history and modern technology which allowed us to experience scents that existed thousands of years ago.”
For lovers of art and culture, make sure you drop by Fondation Louis Vuitton. “Designed by Frank Gehry and sponsored by LVMH, the Fondation Louis Vuitton is an extraordinary structure once you personally witness all the architectural marvels brought to life. Modern technology and mind-bending innovation greeted us through the likes of the curved glass panels, cascading waterfalls, trippy-mirrored pillars and the best acoustics imaginable in their auditorium,” says Mitali.
When you’re in the world’s biggest fashion capital, your Parisian tour is incomplete without a fashion show, especially at the Paris Fashion Week.
“I had the opportunity to attend Paris Fashion Week with L’Oréal, and the backstage experience was unforgettable. Held on the Champs-Élysées against the gorgeous backdrop of the Arc de Triomphe, coveted designers like Balmain, Giambattista Valli and Isabel Marant showcased 2-3 designs, each with a strong beauty look, thanks to L’Oréal.”
Fashion, art, culture — Paris has it all. Planning a trip? Visit Atout France at in.france.fr to inquire more.
