It’s not too late to visit the “Portes Ouvertes” in Menilmontant. During this event, many studios throughout the 19th and 20th arrondissements will open their doors to the public in an attempt to unite artists with the communities that surround and nurture them. Today is the last day of the Ateliers de Ménilmontant 2009. Use this map and first and second keys to locate studios to visit. (And stay tuned for Montmartre-aux-Artistes from October 16-18).

Anne from Pret a Voyager provides insight into this year’s Portes Ouvertes Festival in Menilmontant.

“This morning in class, my professor remarked that of the 20+ years he’s lived in Paris, this is the best fall weather he’s ever seen. I fear by typing this I’m jinxing my good luck, but seriously in the 4 weeks I’ve been here now, it’s been sunny and gorgeous for all but like two or three days. We’re all trying to soak in the sun before the long, dreaded Paris winters. But fall is definitely my most favorite season in Paris. Something about the layering of clothes, yet still being able to picnic outside, along with falling leaves – it adds charm to charm. It’s also the season for many Portes Ouvertes, or open studios around the city. This weekend is kicking it off in Belleville. Click here more info about the flyer above, and here for the studios below.”

Edited by Tory Hoen for the HiP Paris Blog.  Looking for a fabulous vacation rental in Paris, Provence, or Tuscany? Check out Haven in Paris.