• 1924 Le Grand Escalier Printemps Haussmann reopened 2023
    Let's Explore

    Printemps Haussmann Reopens Le Grand Escalier

    Opening the daily newspaper, Le Parisien, the photo of a magnificent staircase in Printemps Haussmann met my eyes. After forty years, Printemps Haussmann reopened Le Grand Escalier (the Great Staircase). Get lost in the mirrors that reflect and the balustrades that twist to infinity. A major renovation project is complete. Forty years after Printemps closed off the staircase in the rotunda, the beautifully refurbished 1924 staircase once again reaches to the 7ème ciel (the seventh heaven) the rooftop. The staircase reopened Thursday, June 1, 2023. The only way to reach Le Grand Escalier is through the Caumartin women’s building. Excited to see the renovation, I entered the Caumartin rotunda, crossed the mosaic floor to…

  • image from Arts in the City and Air BnB for a night at the Opera Garnier colleensparis.com
    Let's Explore,  Monuments

    Spend the night in the Opera Garnier? 

    Glancing at the Arts in the City‘s newsletter, the headline “Reservez une nuit d’hôtel à l’ Opéra Garnier” (Reserve a night at the Opera Garnier) caught my eye. Mark your calendar and keep your computer open! Reservations open March 1 at 6 pm (CET-Paris).  The first date to reserve is July 16. Sit down for the next piece of information: 37 Euros a night. The Opera National de Paris  and Air BnB are collaborating for an extraordinary experience: a one-night stay in the Box of Honor. This loge (box) usually reserved for visiting dignitaries (without the bed, of course). Additional, fun information about the event “Guests will sleep in the largest opera box in the Palais Garnier – the Box of Honour – a…

  • August 21, no service between La Défense and Nation alternatives available
    Life in Paris & France,  Transportation,  Videos

    Paris RER A Renovating after Forty Years

    After forty years, RER A is renovating between July 23 and August 21. Alternative transportation options are available. Two videos and a website explain the details. The RER A serves forty-six stations (35 RATP metro and 11 SNCF) and carries 308 million travelers a year with two minutes between trains. Read more about the RER A project and other statistics. Guides for How to Get Around this Summer on RER A and C can be downloaded as well as the special instructions booklet, practical guide to prepare ahead, guide for the disabled and how to get around Paris and the outlying areas this summer.....