BW Travels

France

Born in France, Brochu Walker’s Creative Director, Karine joyfully returns to her home country once a year and brings back a world of inspiration that she infuses into Brochu Walker. This trip was a little different as she went to Paris as a tour guide for her boys…so much to share.

“I must admit, the French do it best. The level of detail in their hotels, stores, and restaurants immerses you in an all-encompassing world that delights all your senses. In Paris, I was lucky to stay at the Four Seasons Hotel George V and I was in heaven. From the scent that immediately surrounds you to the beauty of the flowers that are everywhere, and the incredible, genuine service designed to fulfill any desire, it is a luxury experience like no other.” ~ Karine Dubner

Here are some of her favorite Parisian destinations.

Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries, Jardins du Palais Royale

The perfectly manicured gardens in Paris are magical. The greenery is vibrant and alive, the flowers are fragrant…oases of green that are serene and welcoming. Take a leisurely promenade through the Jardin du Luxembourg, relax in the Jardin des Tuileries after a delicious lunch at Café Marly or have an 'Emily in Paris' moment at the Jardins du Palais Royale.

Fabula Café

Next to the most unexpected small garden in the Marais , Fabula Café is helmed by Michelin Star chef, Julien Dumas. Deeply inspired by the Carnavalet Museum, he imagines a menu in the form of a delicate ode to plants, at the heart of which herbs play the leading roles. Voted the best mixologist in the world in 2022 Remy Savage further delights guests with exquisite libations.

The Eiffel Tower

The most well-known monument in France, The Eiffel Tower is of course an experience not to be missed. But did you know it houses a one-Michelin starred restaurant, Le Jules Verne? Its chef Frédéric Anton was awarded ‘Meilleur Ouvrier de France’ one of the most prestigious titles you can receive in France, so it is a gastronomical delight. Try the ‘chartreuse jaune’, a French liquor that has been produced via a secret recipe since 1605 for a little touch of French history.

Les Bateaux Mouches

When the weather is beautiful, don’t miss a boat ride on the Seine River. Start at Pont de l'Alma and enjoy the views of the city while you cruise on an open-air boat. Passing by Notre-Dame, in full reconstruction mode, is a scene of orchestrated cranes! The best artisans in the world are working together to bring it back to a state of glory…teamwork at its finest.

Le Chateau de Versailles

Inspired architecture…woodwork, beautiful materials like parquet floors and crystal chandeliers, emblems and sculptures, a trip to Versailles is a must. The Baroque Hall of Mirrors, l’Orangerie and its grand views, and Le Petit Trianon (Marie Antoinette’s pied-a-terre) are standouts, while the sheer size of the castle is an ode to an era of extravagance.

The next stop on Karine’s French adventure was the South of France, her birthplace and a forever inspiration that is infused into all things Brochu Walker.

“I only spent 4 nights in the South of France, but it was magical! Surrounded by family, the cicadas singing, and the beautiful views reminds me of my childhood and creates perfect murals of happiness in my mind.” ~ Karine Dubner

St. Tropez

The ultimate summer destination, St. Tropez’s charming streets, cute boutiques and amazing cafés are everything. Café Sénéquier, established in 1887, is a favorite and the best place to people watch and view the yachts docked in town.

Boating on the Mediterranean

A boat day is a must if you want to truly experience the Mediterranean and L’ile de Porquerolles is a special place to lunch. Perfect blue water, only bikes allowed, a little jewel in the sea. La Plage d’Argent is another magical spot with its brilliant sand that looks like golden dust. Its beaches are only accessibly by boat, so it is quiet and pristine...part of the Golden Islands, everything feels untouched, nature at its best.

SHOP KARINE’S TRAVEL PICKS