Visiting Paris, Summer Fitness & Clogs
Just the important stuff :)
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Going to Paris? 3 Hot Tips To Get More out of your stay
I was lucky enough to visit Paris for a few days with my youngest son this past January. I wasn’t sure about going on my own with him, but when I walked out of the Metro into the middle of Paris and looked around I thought - hell ya. It was SO gorgeous and the whole time felt like a dream (well - most of it!)
Here are my 3 Tips:
Plan…
Unfortunately, gone are the days when you can just rock up to the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay and walk in. Tickets are by the hour and are sold out in advance. There is a line for walk-ins for the Eiffel Tower, but if you want to skip the line, you have to book in advance. Also bring a boatload of patience if you are visiting at peak time.
Rue Madame
We stayed in a fairly inexpensive & beautiful hotel room on this street which was recommended to us. It was super quiet and fairly residential - there were daycares and schools in the neighbourhood. It was surrounded by great local bakeries and restaurants and within walking distance of the larger attractions. There’s even a small supermarket on the next street over. Bonus: this cutie store is also on the street.
With Kids? Here are my top two experiences:
Do the Paris d’enfants tour of the Louvre. It’s very intense to visit the Louvre these days and by doing one of these tours, you get to move ahead of the ‘Guide Entrance Line’ and the kids got to walk in front of the security line straight in front of the Mona Lisa. French Only. Book well in advance.
The Catacombs de Paris were not something that would have been on my list, but out of our ENTIRE trip including Harry Potter Studios this was BY FAR my son’s favourite activity. You have to book in advance - don’t even try going without tickets.
Someone want to take your picture? Always say yes! Want your picture taken? Ask a content creator. Honestly they are everywhere in Paris, will know what to do and I guarantee their gear is better than yours so they won't run off with your stuff. Last hot tip: On the Eurostar over there were tons of people with HUGE luggage. I have no idea what they did with it. If you are planning on taking the metro, and staying in a standard size Paris hotel room (and using that tiny elevator) bring carry on.
Spent all winter getting fit? Here are 3 easy ways to not let it slide this summer
Summer is here, and with it comes pool parties, BBQs, and all these temptations - we do want to have fun, but.. we also don’t want to go (that much) overboard….
Don’t worry, staying healthy doesn't have to mean sacrificing all the fun.
Here are 3 surprisingly small things to help you stick to your healthy habits this summer:
Ditch the sugary cocktails!
Stick with wine, vodka (or any clear liquor) with soda water & lime or a gin and tonic with low-calorie tonic water.
Even on lazy beach days, a little movement goes a long way.
Try these quick exercises you can do without leaving on your towel: 3 rounds, 12 reps each!
Craving chips? Choose a healthier alternative! Reach for these high-protein, high-fibre options instead:
Roasted Chickpeas - The Good Bean Original Salted Chickpeas
Seed Me - a Montreal-based seed snack is a perfect alternative (you can buy it at National amongst other places)
Carrot Sticks with Hummus Dip
Want more tips on staying active and eating well? Follow me on Instagram @mel_hagn for more inspiration.
Mel Hagn, a NASM certified personal trainer and nutrition coach with a pre- and postnatal fitness specialization, is passionate about helping people, especially mothers, achieve lasting health and fitness. With a background in martial arts (including a 2nd degree Black Belt in Tang Soo Do) and extensive experience with various fitness programs, Mel believes in a balanced approach that combines strength training, balanced and goals targeted nutrition as well as proper recovery.. Recognizing the challenges faced by mothers, she creates customized online programs that fit busy lives and prioritize sustainable lifestyle changes. She also teachers a Mommy Baby Fitness in person class in Montreal. Mel's motto, "Making Fitness Fit" reflects her commitment to creating fun and engaging experiences that make fitness achievable for everyone.
Links Clockwise Starting Top Left: Sezane Lilac Clogs, Dr. Scholl's X Free People Original Clogs, GoldRushRach, J. Crew Clogs, Sarah Jessica Parker
Let’s Clog!
Someone asked me the other day, "What's with those clogs you keep wearing?" I replied….
"Wooden shoe like to know”
Ahahaha. Get it!?!?!
Seriously though, let’s talk about clogs. Love them or hate them?
I think I love them!!! I came across a gorgeous lavender suede pair earlier this spring and when I asked my friend what she thought about them, her reply was instant “I hate clogs. No.” So I held off, doubting myself….are they really that bad? Then I saw someone wearing a silver pair, darn it!!! I should have gotten those purple ones of my dreams….THEN I saw a picture of SJP wearing the OG pair of Dr Scholls, in an image of her filming 'And Just Like That' in NYC. I mean if SJP approves they must be at least tolerable …… right?
So, to clog or not to clog???? Let us know what you think!
Amanda Eaman is a Montreal-based stylist that works with clients that want to look and feel their best. She offers recommendations, personal shopping, closet cleaning, and more. Her services are included for all of my photography clients. Don’t hesitate to reach out to her at amandaeaman@gmail.com.
Okeya Kyujiro - Omakase Restaurant in Montreal
Food is amazing, definitely a $$$pecial occasion spot, theatrics are there but doesn’t feel gimmicky, seats only 10 people and you have to show up on time. You will also try things you’ve never had before!- Elif
These two ladies are amazing! I’m going to bookmark this for whenever I feel like I’m too old or it’s too late to do something.
Heading to Italy this summer or just know an Italian fan? This coffee table book full of the most beautiful photos would be such a gorgeous gift.
Ever wonder what happens to unclaimed luggage - it goes here (at least in the USA) Here is a report on what they found last year, which I found kinda fascinating.
The best summer read. It’s super easy and light, so even if you aren’t much of a reader you’ll float through it. I can’t wait to try some of her other books!
Are you into Estate Sales? Or maybe just snooping in people’s homes? Follow this Instagram Account for local Estate Sales.
Bon Appétit listed the Best Poutine in Montreal. What do you think?
Is this the travel accessory we never knew we needed (well, I think I kinda always knew I needed it and am very tempted!)
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I am a photographer and specialize in Family, Maternity, Newborn, Boudoir and Headshots. If you are interested in a session please take a look at my website (pricing in included) or contact me.