Hannah Wilson

Hannah is a young twenty-something blogger who decided to swap the constant sunshine of her California hometown for the grandeur and charm of Paris. She loves discovering unique shops, parks, cafés and restaurants in Paris, and currently lives in Versailles with her Swedish husband.

Website: http://www.frenchcalifornian.com/

French Cultural Tips: 5 Ways to Avoid Awkward Moments with the Locals in Paris

When traveling to a new country, it’s essential to know some cultural basics. For instance, how does tipping work in Paris, and how does one obtain free glasses of water at a cafe? You can either learn the hard way, or come prepared! Here are 5 tips that will prevent any awkward moments with the locals in Paris. ... Read More

The Most Unique Pastries of Paris in One Shop!

Many of the most innovative pastry chefs in the world reside in Paris, selling their incredible creations in their own respective pastry shops. But what if the best pastries from chefs around the city were brought into one single shop on the famous Rue Montorguieil? That’s exactly what has happened at the brand new Fou de Pâtisserie! ... Read More

A Closer Look at Ladurée’s Newest Macaron Boxes

Maison Ladurée’s most recent collaboration with Australian illustrator Kerrie Hess brings together all the best elements of the Parisian dream: beauty, femininity, fashion and of course, macarons. Come take a closer look at her exclusive, limited edition designs, and learn the fascinating history behind this world-renowned pastry shop and the adorable pastel-colored confections they create! ... Read More

The Amazing & Unique Cream Puffs of La Maison du Chou

There’s never a shortage of pastries in Paris, but not all are created equal. At La Maison du Chou, where cream puffs are filled before your very eyes, the balance between sugar and flavor has been perfected. Head over to their newest location on the village-like Île-Saint-Louis to satisfy your sweet tooth in the shadow of Notre Dame! ... Read More

Art Lessons in Paris – Commemorate Your Trip in a Meaningful Way

Before cameras became so popular and easy to use, travelers to Paris would remember their voyage through sketches and paintings. This artistic tradition remains alive today, and you can be a part of it! All you need are a few simple art supplies and a teacher to guide you. Soak in the sights of Paris like you never have before! ... Read More

European Museum Night in Paris – Free Art & Performance for All!

European Museum Night 2016 is quickly approaching. Mark your calendars for May 21st, one of the only nights you can get into all the major museums of Paris for free! There will also be a plethora of exciting demonstrations and performances taking place throughout the city, so check this list of events to make the most of this culture-filled night! ... Read More

See 300 Years of Stunning Fashions in the Chicest City on Earth!

As one of the most important fashion capitals of the world, is there any place better than Paris to see an incredible fashion exhibition? Spanning three centuries and showcasing 300 exquisite garments, Fashion Forward, now showing at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, is an event that fashion lovers and costume design enthusiasts won’t want to miss! ... Read More

Shakespeare & Company Café: Books + Coffee = A Match Made in Heaven!

Nothing goes together quite as perfectly as a good book and a fresh cup of coffee or tea. Add to that a view over Notre Dame Cathedral, and you’ve reached one version of Parisian heaven. The famous English language bookstore, Shakespeare & Company, recently opened a stellar coffee shop that’s a must-visit for all book and coffee lovers! ... Read More

Springtime in Paris: A Marvelous Eruption of Blooms and Blossoms

Springtime in Paris is absolutely marvelous. After many months of rain, clouds and leafless trees, sudden, bright shocks of yellow and pink start to liven up the city again. First come the daffodils, followed by magnolias and then oodles of cherry blossoms! See what it’s like to experience Spring’s awakening through the eyes of a Parisian. ... Read More

Whipped Cream Heaven Can Be Found on Rue Cler!

Believe it or not, there’s a café on Rue Cler dedicated entirely to the art of whipped cream! It’s called Maison de la Chantilly and it’s fabulous. If you’re looking for a way to satisfy your sweet tooth, but you’ve already had your fill of traditional Parisian pastries, be sure to stop here for some light, fluffy, whipped goodness! ... Read More

Paris Art Exhibitions Coming this Spring & Summer!

The Fall-Winter art season will soon be coming to a close, which means a whole new, exciting tide of art will be flooding the museums of Paris. From Barbie and James Bond to Impressionism, Picasso and fashion, the Spring-Summer 2016 art season in Paris is not only going to be exciting, it’ll also please every type of viewer! ... Read More

Public Transportation in Paris – Everything You Need to Know

Metro, bus, RER, zones, maps and tickets! Do these words make you feel anxious? It can be quite overwhelming to figure out the Paris transportation system, especially on your first trip. This blog post will give you a run-down of the system in easy-to-understand terms, so you can feel more confident getting from point A to point B! ... Read More

5 Paris Valentine’s Day Activities For Everyone to Enjoy!

You don’t have to have a ring on your finger to enjoy the romance of Valentine’s day, especially when you’re in Paris! The city itself radiates romance through its architecture, divine foods and overwhelming beauty. Although Paris is fabulous for lovers, anybody can celebrate their love of Paris in so many sweet ways. From tempting treats to early blossoms read on to find out our five favorite Parisian Valentine’s Day activities! ... Read More

A Terrific New Tea Emporium Just Opened on Rue Cler!

The famous market street, Rue Cler, already has individual shops dedicated to honey, chocolate and even whipped cream, so it was about time they made room for tea! Mariage Frères is arguably the finest and oldest tea brand in France, and perusing their shop is an exciting sensory experience. Come have a peek inside this fascinating tea emporium! ... Read More

Travel Back in Time at the Musée Gustave Moreau

Big names like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay certainly deserve their good reputation, but there’s so much to discover in the small museums of Paris. At the Musée Gustave Moreau, you’ll dive into the past, discovering Moreau’s family home and art studio. Peer into the fantastical mind of this Symbolist painter, known for his elaborate settings and mythological subjects! ... Read More