My friend and I were lounging by the pool at the luxurious Hotel Molitor when a message from her mom popped up: “Are you at the Emily in Paris hotel?” She had only posted a picture of the lido on Instagram, but the connection was clear.
The Netflix show’s influence is unmistakable despite Parisians’ mixed feelings about the series. It’s one of the reasons we chose to stay at the five-star hotel, which featured in season three when Emily spent a day sipping poolside drinks.
Located in the fashionable 16th arrondissement, about 25 minutes by Metro from the Eiffel Tower, the Molitor is a tranquil retreat. While it’s away from the main tourist spots, that distance adds to its allure. The art-deco outdoor pool, where the bikini was famously introduced in 1946, offers a serene escape from the city.
The stylish rooms, with floor-length windows and large space-age beds, overlook this iconic pool, enhancing the atmosphere of relaxed luxury.
Paris, long the fashion capital, had recently seemed to lose its charm for younger travellers. Millennials were flocking to trendier spots like Berlin or Amsterdam. But the city has made a vibrant comeback, not just thanks to Emily in Paris or the upcoming 2024 Olympics, but because young Parisians have breathed new life into areas like the 11th and 18th arrondissements. These trendy neighborhoods are filled with cool bars and innovative restaurants, blending modernity with Parisian charm.
One standout was Pantobaguette, a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine where we dined on dishes like aubergine with white peaches, and ajitsuke eggs with wasabi mayo, all while enjoying ‘90s hip-hop beats. Another must-visit was Folderol, a quirky spot serving gelato and natural wine, where locals sip aperitifs while lounging on the sidewalk.
We also explored Paris’s vibrant flea markets, opting for the Marche aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves in the 14th arrondissement, a treasure trove for cool locals. With bargains like €5 brooches and €25 paintings, it was hard to resist. The more famous Marche aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, which features in Emily in Paris, is also a great spot for vintage finds.
Our nights were equally enchanting, from enjoying €14 deals of six oysters and a glass of wine at La Trincante in the 18th arrondissement to catching a show at Rock en Seine, a popular music festival. We were treated to performances by artists like Fred Again and Lana Del Rey, surrounded by an effortlessly cool crowd sipping rosé from delicate plastic glasses.
In all, our Paris trip perfectly blended the modern energy of the city with its timeless elegance. Taking the Eurostar instead of a flight made the journey smoother, and we returned to London feeling refreshed, having experienced a city that’s once again full of life and excitement.