Tour à la Carte Menu
There’s so much more to Paris than just the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Moulin Rouge. Here are just a few of Heather’s favorite tour themes and experiences to whet your appetite. Don’t see what you’re looking for here? Don’t hesitate to ask!
- Tag Along Reconnaissance Tours **New in 2011**
Part of Heather’s job as a journalist and guide involves visiting the latest hotels, restaurants, boutiques, museum expos, galleries, tea rooms, chocolate shops, etc. Join her on her next reconnaissance mission! No guarantee that it will be good or even interesting, but you’ll definitely experience something before it hits the mainstream, and help Heather decide if it gets the thumbs up or thumbs down. Special rate starting at €150.
- Bryan's "Welcome to Paris" Tour **New in 2011**
First time in Paris? Let Heather's friendly young assistant Bryan give you a crash course orientation to the city. In two hours he will show you how to use the metro, explain local customs, dining etiquette, an introduction to the history of Paris, the best sites and neighborhoods based on your available time and interests, dining recommendations, and answers to all of the questions you might have...even the stupid ones. ;-) Just €150 for up to 6 adults, contact Bryan directly on his website, Where is Bryan?
- Heather's Custom Orientation Tours
For anyone renting an apartment or moving to Paris, Heather’s custom orientation tours give you a local’s knowledge of your neighborhood, including the best food markets, bakeries, closest post office, Laundromats, convenience stores, banks, pharmacies, newsstands, and the most convenient public transportation links. Note: This can also be done as a Custom Travel Itinerary.
- Flea Markets, Vintage & Thrift Shops
Let Heather guide you through the maze of the largest flea market in Europe, from luxury vintage clothing boutiques to bargain basement thrift shops.
- Artists’ Ateliers
Explore the artist studios of Paris, with the opportunity to meet and buy direct from the artists. Ask about regularly scheduled open studio days and vernissages (gallery receptions).
- Food & Wine
Paris is a foodie’s dream come true! Enjoy an open-air picnic in some of the city’s most magical settings. Indulge shamelessly in a Sweet Tooth Tour of the best chocolate and pastry shops. Learn to cook a meal alongside other busy Parisians. Test the mythical green liquor Absinthe, also known as “The Green Fairy”. Or cram into a popular wine bar with local market stall owners for fresh oysters and a glass of white wine…standing room only!
- Multicultural Paris
African markets, Japanese pastry boutiques, Middle Eastern cafés, Indian bazaars, the largest Chinatown in Europe, and a Russian cathedral…travel the four corners of the world without leaving Paris!
- Ethical Commerce Shopping Tour
Visit the shops that promote independent and up-and-coming artisans, as well as boutiques that support fair trade with developing nations.
- Paris after Dark
Discover where Parisians go for a night on the town, from zinc bars and jazz clubs to DJ lounges and open-air salsa dancing. Heather can also take you on an alternative, underground tour of the Parisian Punk-Goth-Steampunk scene.
- Historic Gardens & Cemeteries
More than just trees and flowers, the parks and gardens of Paris are rich in history. Visit the vast botanical gardens created for the king of France over four centuries ago, the stunning Medici Fountain that the ill-fated wife of Henri IV never got to enjoy, or stroll through the largest green space in Paris, the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery, with its impressive collection of funerary statues.
- Religious Heritage Tour
From the basilica of France’s kings and queens to the most famous Parisian cathedrals and precious chapels, see great artworks, amazing architecture, touching ex votos, and the most famous Parisian pilgrimage site. If the timing is right we can catch a real Latin Mass with Gregorian chant, a recital on a 17th-century organ, or the display of the holy relics brought to France by Saint Louis (King Louis IX) in the 13th century.
- Meet the Locals
Mingle with Parisians, practice your French, or meet the local English-speaking community at events such as literary readings, networking dinners, conversation groups, or other informal gatherings.
- Graffiti Art Tours
Paris has become the preferred canvas for many top graffiti artists, with a particularly large concentration in certain neighborhoods where the local shopkeepers and residents invite the “graffeurs” to decorate their facades.
- American Patriot Tour
Visit the virtually forgotten American monuments, war memorials, military cemeteries and Franco-American tributes in and around Paris.
Ideas for Tours Beyond Paris
- Versailles
More than just the Sun King’s palace and gardens, Versailles is also a great town for antique hunters!
- Chantilly
An elegant town deep in the forest, Chantilly is home to an impressive chateau museum, the Living Horse Museum, and some of the most prestigious equestrian events in France.
- The Champagne Trail
Take a tour of family-owned Champagne vineyards and cellars, where you’ll learn all about the history and making of the famous bubbly -- tasting included, of course! Can be combined with a visit to the perfectly-preserved half-timbered village of Troyes, renowned for its stained-glass heritage…and outlet malls!
- Other possibilities include Morêt-sur-Loing, Loire Valley, Giverny...and Disneyland Paris!
