After studying apparel merchandising at Indiana University, Rebecca’s path was all set —or at least that’s what she thought until she spent a semester in Italy and was seriously bitten by the travel bug. And that’s when ideas about becoming a photographer started to form.
However, it was only in 2008, when she lost her job that Rebecca decided to take the leap and make her dream come true. She packed her bags and disembarked in Paris that spring, ready for a new adventure as a travel photographer. Fast-forward 11 years, Rebecca is an accomplished travel and lifestyle photographer and blogger with a successful print shop who splits her time between France and the United States.
We recently spoke with Rebecca to talk about what her perfect day in Paris looks like.
Spring Stroll Along the Seine
“A perfect day in Paris would start with a morning stroll on the Seine. And if I could pick a season it would be a sunny spring day during blossom season. I would chase the light in the early morning and clear my head. I would walk through the Marais and photograph the cherry blossoms. The pops of pink around the city make you look up and around at buildings you normally wouldn’t notice.
But First, Coffee (And Pastries)
I love a good cup of coffee and Paris has some great spots. Boot Café is a favorite in the Marais. I love to stop here for a latte.
As I stroll through Paris with a coffee in hand, I make my way towards a boulangerie for a croissant. My top pick for a croissant is Du Pain et Des Idées (close to the Marais). Otherwise, I head over to Boulangerie Utopie in the nearby 11th arrondissement. Don’t be discouraged by the lines outside; they are both fully worth the wait.
Marais Lunch Stop
If I am still in the Marais for lunch, I love going to Israeli restaurant Miznon. Their pita bread and tahini are out-of-this-world good. I usually get the chicken salad pita. You can eat in at Miznon or take it to Place des Vosges for a picnic.
Apéro Time
In the afternoon, I would stop by Jardin des Plantes to see the blossoms and work my way towards St. Germain for a glass of wine. Café de Flore has excellent people watching if you can grab a table outside. There are also great outdoor cafés lining Rue de Buci.
After Wine Comes Cheese
As the sun begins to fade, I like to stop by my favorite boulangerie, Maison Landemaine, at 28 Boulevard Beaumarchais and wine shop La Carte des Vins at number 26, not forgetting a cheese shop that I love on rue de Bretagne called Jouannault. Here, I pick up all the necessities for a picnic along the Seine. To end my perfect Paris day I would photograph the sunset from the Seine river and join a small group of friends to end the evening in excellent company.”
More about Rebecca
Rebecca Plotnick is an observer by nature and sees the world through her lens, frame by frame. She has been documenting the city of Paris since 2010 as a full time photographer. Rebecca also writes a blog called Every Day Parisian, which is a great resource for Francophiles planning a trip to Paris or dreaming of one.
Addresses
Boot Café – 19 rue du Pont aux Choux, 75003 Paris
Du Pain et Des Idées – 34 Rue Yves Toudic, 75010 Paris
Boulangerie Utopie – 20 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, 75011 Paris
Miznon – 22 Rue des Ecouffes, 75004 Paris
Jardin des Plantes – 57 Rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris
Café de Flore – 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris
Maison Landemaine – 28 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75011 Paris
La Carte des Vins – 26 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75011 Paris
Jouannault – 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris
Related Articles
- Jane Bertch, founder of La Cuisine Paris, tells us about her perfect day.
- Wander down five of Paris’ prettiest secret streets.
- This might be Paris’ last bohemian neighborhood.
Written by Rooksana Hossenally for HiP Paris. Looking to travel? Check out Haven In for a fabulous vacation rental in Paris, France or Italy. Looking to rent long-term or buy in France or Italy? Ask us! We can connect you to our trusted providers for amazing service and rates.
WRITTEN BY
Rooksana Hossenally
Originally from London, Rooksana moved to Paris for what was supposed to be six months – it’s now been 12 years. A freelance journalist, she’s contributed to many publications from the New York Times, Forbes, and BBC Travel to Condé Nast Traveller and the Guardian. She’s headed up several print and online travel and culture magazines, and has worked with brands from L’Oréal to Glamour Magazine optimizing their online platforms. When not working, Rooksana’s scouring the city for new creative pockets, hole-in-the-wall Indian restaurants, and procrastinating about the book she’s meant to be writing.
These photographs are extraordinary!
They are. We are fortunate to have featured Rebecca! -Erica
Rebecca’s blog, Every Day Parisian, was the inspiration for my first solo trip to Paris.
Dreaming of my next Parisian adventure!
Aww so lovely to hear Marian!
Du Pain et des Idees is not in Le Marais, it’s near the Canal/Republique in the 10th arrondissement. The marais is ONLY the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, people need to stop trying to stretch it out.
Thanks for the heads up Rachel. It is changed!