One of my favorite places for a glass of rosé in Paris is, Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole. More for the memories than the location, this place is one of my go-to’s! I stumbled upon this restaurant while getting lost one evening on the Ile de la Cité. I remember it being a not so great day (for various reasons not worth a mention), which meant all I wanted to do was get home. While stumbling around looking for the right street to get me back to my apartment, I randomly looked left and saw a colorful street with wisteria hanging from the facade. My mind said, “keep trekking home” but my feet took a turn. I stood there in awe of its beauty for a few minutes and then said F*$^ it (dinner and studying, that is), I need alcohol. I ended up enjoying a really delicious glass of rosé under the most gorgeous wisteria you’ve ever seen!

Luckily, that day I was the only customer, which come to find out is a rarity at Au Vieux. I like to tell myself it was meant to be. I began talking with the waiter and learned a bit about the history. It is quite fascinating. The restaurant is in the old Canon’s house built in 1512, making it one of the oldest buildings remaining in Paris. Being so close to Notre Dame, in 1723 it was sold off by the church to become a wine bar. After learning a little about the space the waiter proudly took me upstairs to see a view of the Notre Dame from a unique vantage point. I ended up walking home a little buzzed and completely content, thinking this is why I came to Paris!

I still love to go back to this place for a glass of rosé and to remember that “bad” day which turned out to be one of my favorite memories. I shot this photo as a reminder on my last trip there and thought I would share this little hidden gem with all of you. You know, incase you find yourself having a “bad” day in Paris (as if that really exists) and needing a glass of rosé.

Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole
24 Rue Chanoinesse
Paris 4th 75004

For more information and bookings check out their website here.
You can also e-mail me with any questions –  mary@sothentheysay.com

**We rode on the amazingly luxurious Vonlane to get to Austin! If you are in Dallas or Houston be sure to catch a ride. For $89 each way you get oversized, reclinable leather chairs, wifi, free food and drinks, and peace of mind knowing you don’t have to deal with Austin traffic 🙂 Seriously, they are changing the game! check them out here

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To read other reviews of LASR check out my fellow blogger friends sites:
Ashley // The Teacher Diva
Lynsey // Tomboy KC
Tanya // Tanya Foster
Cathy // The Middle Page
Heather // So Heather

Because today, August 1st, is Swiss National Day (equivalent to our July 4th) I decided to share 5 things I like to do in Geneva. Geneva has quickly become one of my favorite places to visit. My main reason I like to visit is to visit my in-laws. I absolutely love going to their home as it is one of the most peaceful places! Over the years I have gotten to know Geneva better and am frequently asked what does one do there if they visit. While my list could probably go to about 40-50 things I kept it to five of my favorites!

Eat at L’entrecote or Roberto’s
L’entrecote is a Geneva establishment. With only one thing on the menu you can’t be picky. Their steak frites become perfection once they are drowned in their very (very) secret sauce! I promise you, this is a Geneva treat.
Roberto’s is a new favorite! My father in-law has been going here since he was a child and I imagine the decor is still the same all these years later. It is an old establishment but a delicious one! I recommend the gluten free carbonara! Just make sure to save room, they bring out a second round no questions asked.

Walk the Quai
The Quai is the walk way around the lake. It has spectacular views of Geneva (which loops around the outer rim of the lake) and the Jet d’Eau. Just be sure to bring the camera! You will get gorgeous shots of the city with the lake. Oh, and if you are feeling daring, you can take the walk straight to the Jet d’Eau. Just make sure to walk a straight line!

Explore Old Town
Old Town is full of amazing history. It is really quaint and a perfect way to spend an afternoon. I recommend hiring a tour guide to take you to the wall of reformation and St. Peters Cathedral. The city is perfect for any history buffs. Don’t worry, a walking tour isn’t your thing, stop in an old fondue restaurant. It is okay to “taste” your way through a city!

Hitch a Ride Around Lake Geneva
My favorite thing to do in Geneva is to go boating on Lake Geneva in the Summer. The water is always blue and refreshing. And you get the best views of the entire city!

Celebrate August 1st
My first trip to Geneva overlapped with August 1st, Swiss National Day. What an experience! Each Canton will light fires on top of the mountains like they did hundreds of years ago to signify unity. At night the city comes alive with fireworks and celebrations. If you are planning a trip over there in the summer, make sure it overlaps with August 1st. It is something you have to experience.