Dream comes True

I've always dreamed of living in Paris and finally I was able to make my dream come true. I find myself relishing in the beauty of this city every time I step outside. It’s almost as if there is something new to be discovered every day and it never ceases to amaze me. Everything from its architecture, culture, art exhibitions is a sight to behold. If you love art and history you are sure to have fun. Everything in the borough feels different, fresh and exciting. There isn’t a second you feel bored, it’s as if everyday there was a new exhibit, festival, gallery or museum. Not to mention the food; there are so many small markets where you can find quality produce and café where young people go to enjoy a nice meal and cup of coffee at any time of day with the view of such a wonderful city.

If you asked me at any other point in my life if I would go out and have lunch by myself at a restaurant, I would scoff. However, after arriving here, I feel as though it taught me how to enjoy my own company. I find that a long walk has become so fulfilling in a way I could’ve never imagined. I love stopping to admire every little bookshop, boutique, café and even just to watch people going about their days.

How can you not feel lucky to be here?

Let me tell you a little bit about myself and what led up to me settling here.

I started my adult life as an engineer, god knows what led me to make that decision. It took me some time that what I truly loved most was traveling, eating good food, discovering different cultures and cooking.

While I was living in Montréal, Canada, I was a caterer. I organized parties, got the chance to share my food and meet tons of interesting new people.

After that, It was thanks to my Husband’s work that I was able to spend the next 4 years living and exploring Mexico, when suddenly I got the news that they were transferring him to Pairs!

Voila!

What do I do now for a living?

I run an Airbnb! I’m a proud superhost, which means I try my hardest to make my guests feel like I’m always there to help them. I try to make their stay as comfortable as possible. I feel as though it is my duty to do homework and discover new places so my suggestions can help them make the most out of their trip.

Sindel Demers

Cherishing Paris

As a Turkish woman deeply rooted in my country and culture, I find myself yearning for my hometown every single day. This longing has inevitably made my life in Paris quite challenging. Recently, I confided in Okan about how, even after more than 15 years, Paris still feels transient, like a “rental” - actually, and told him I often daydream about living in Turkey.

Okan’s reaction was to offer a thoughtful suggestion: he suggested compiling a list of my favorite places and routines in Paris, believing it could help me rekindle my connection with the city—a city that many dream of living in.

So here are a few of the things I hold dear.

Firstly, after enduring four apartment changes during Covid, my - now - husband and I moved to the 18th arrondissement in mid-2021, and it is one of the best decisions we ever made. I quickly fell in love with this neighborhood, enjoying strolls along the pedestrian-friendly corners and Avenue Junot pausing to admire Dalida's former home and imagining her singing "Gigi l'amoroso" from the beautiful balcony. I relish my afternoon golden lattes at Two Doors (bobo assumée), indulging in cocktails at Hotel Particulier or Chez Ginette, pain aux noix and croissants at Atelier P1, savoring a delightful dinner at Loulou Montmartre, devouring the "18e" pizza from Il Brigante, and experiencing culinary excellence at L'Arcane or l’Arpaon. Above all, the simplest joys, like Sunday grocery shopping on Rue du Poteau, have become cherished traditions.

A true sanctuary for me is my florist, Maison Mirabilé, where we celebrated our marriage after the official ceremony at the city hall. The array of colors and shapes in that store is simply extraordinary. Catherine, the owner, is delightful, often showcasing creations from mainly female artists during pop-up events.

Living close to Marché aux Puces de St Ouen has been another highlight. When we first moved here, I couldn't resist a weekend without browsing my favorite shops and enjoying a coffee at La Crème. We've adorned our home with beautiful and unique finds from the Marché. I am eagerly awaiting sunny days to return and perhaps hide another few purchases from my husband.

Venturing beyond my neighborhood, I find joy in exploring open markets, with Marché d'Aligre being a perennial favorite. Marché de Breteuil holds a special place in my heart - which may or may not be due in part to the Turkish gözleme stand. When it comes to food and markets, it’s impossible not to enjoy le Marché des Enfants rouges. So many good stands – les Enfants du Marché stands out as a personal favorite.

Paris boasts an abundance of incredible restaurants. The list is long, and my favorites might not be too original for viewers of this blog. But here are a few experiences that I cherish. First off is Ellsworth, not just for its cuisine (which is great) but for the memories of date nights with my husband. Hutopi, founded by childhood friends Hugo, Thomas, and Pierre, is always a gastronomic delight (you can see their picture together exposed in the bathroom dating from pre-school). It particularly resonated with me due to my own very close relationship with my childhood friends and hence felt very close to home. Special mention goes to Amagat, favorite terrace for sunny weather, currently showcasing the talents of Turkish chef Sahin Erdal.

Ultimately, my favorite place in Paris is our home, and my favorite meal is whatever my husband cooks that day. Reflecting on it all, I realize how fortunate I am to call this magical city my current home. While it may feel like a rental, it's certainly worth the price.

Ceyda Cengizer