From The Pumpkin Patch

Living in London means some of the most fabulous cities in the world are just a short trip away.

I’ve always wanted to visit Paris for a day, simply to drink hot chocolate and take in the sights before heading home to bed. So when my friend Koye invited me to join her in doing just that on a late September day, I jumped at the chance.

We woke up before the sun to catch the Eurostar from St. Pancras. I spent most of the journey reading The Secret History, and after a couple of hours, we were in Paris!

It’s been too long since I last visited, and I loved being back. The beautiful architecture, the stylish people… there’s something special about this city.

I had forgotten how chaotic the roads were, and we spent most of our time scurrying across the street and praying we wouldn’t get hit by a car.

Our first stop was hot chocolate. Angelina is rumoured to make some of the best in Paris, so of course we had to visit.

The line outside was long but moved fast, and we were inside after a twenty-minute wait. The decor was so elegant and beautiful, it felt as though we were in an old Parisian film.

And the hot chocolate? Incredible. It was rich and decadent, and came with a little pot of thick cream to stir in. I think it may have been the best hot chocolate I’ve ever had.

We also sampled their famous pastries. I chose the Paris-Brest, made from choux pastry and hazelnuts, as well as a wonderfully light and flaky croissant which we dipped in the hot chocolate. Everything was delicious.

After strolling through the streets for a while, we caught a bus that ended up taking us around the Arc de Triomphe before dropping us off at the perfect spot to view the Eiffel Tower.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. I’ve visited many times, but never get tired of it. It’s such an iconic landmark.

We met up with some of Koye’s family here, who were travelling around Europe. It was lovely to see them!

Paris Fashion Week coincided with our trip, and we could see them setting up for the Saint Laurent show in front of the Eiffel Tower.

Being me, I have to talk about my outfit here.

I thrifted this vintage dark red leather jacket recently, and had been saving it for a special occasion. Paired with my Wrangler flared jeans and art deco-style 70s belt, it was perfect for a day in Paris. I debated wearing a beret, as it’s a little cheesy, but ultimately decided I’d rather have fun than be cool.

Next we made our way over to the Notre Dame, which was much busier than I’d ever seen it. Despite the crowds it was still beautiful, and the bells rang out just as proudly as ever. Framed by early autumn leaves, it made for a wonderful sight.

One of the highlights of the trip was visiting Shakespeare and Company, one of the most beautiful bookshops I’ve ever seen.

Located alongside the River Seine opposite the Notre Dame, Shakespeare and Company is a must-visit for bookworms in Paris. Since its opening in 1951, the bookshop has served as a meeting place for readers and writers. It’s filled from floor to ceiling with books, and has little nooks for anyone to sit and lose themselves in words.

The building was originally a monastery back in the 17th century, and you can just feel the history. Photographs weren’t allowed, but I couldn’t resist snapping a subtle picture of this cosy little corner. I could have spent all day in there.

Of course, I bought a book. I chose Roald Dahl’s Book of Ghost Stories, and they kindly stamped it for me with their iconic shop logo. I’ll always have this wonderful memory now!

Speaking of books, we had to peruse one of the secondhand book stalls that line the River Seine. There’s something so romantic about them.

As evening approached, it was time to start thinking about home. We grabbed some baguettes (and more pastries!) as we walked back to the train station, and before long we were headed back to London.

It was a short but sweet trip, and we were both sad to leave. I’m so glad I could spend this time with Koye and see her family again, and I have a new appreciation for all the European cities and countries on my doorstep.

Au revoir, Paris! What a wonderful day.

P.S. I documented our trip in my very first TikTok video, if that’s more your thing!