I was rapt recently when two gorgeous books arrived in my mail box for me to review. Both coffee table books by Australian journalist and photographer, Janelle McCulloch, the books would make an ideal gift for anyone who loves France, or as a special treat for yourself.
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In Paris – A guide to the city’s creative heart, McCulloch takes readers on a walking tour of eleven of Paris’s arrondissements, pointing out her favourite sights along the way. Intertwined with the history of each district are discoveries that the author has found during her many visits to the City of Light, as well as her own stunning photos.
After your virtual walk around each arrondissement you’ll want to know where to shop, eat and get your culture fix and McCulloch has dedicated chapters in the book to each of these pursuits. Discover the best book shops, vintage and antique stores, fashion outlets and more in the Design section. Foodies will savour the author’s recommended cafes, boulangeries and patisseries, whilst the section on Galleries and Museums covers both famous and not-so-famous cultural spaces.
Just like the Paris book, Provence and the Cote D’Azur – Discover the Spirit of the South of France doesn’t disappoint. Again the author takes the reader on a virtual tour of many of the towns and villages of this beautiful part of France.
In the Provence section, Provencal villages are showcased in all their glory through McCulloch’s brilliant photos with her sightseeing, dining and shopping tips an added bonus. I’ve already jotted down some must-visit villages (and shops!) for my next visit to Provence.
The Cote D’Azur section will have you in a dilemma. Which town will you choose for your stay along the Mediterranean? Weaved with McCulloch’s insights on the architecture, beaches, gardens and boutiques of the French Riviera, each destination comes alive, with quirky facts and figures thrown in for good measure.
Again McCulloch shares her favourite places to eat and shop and also includes a list of places to stay but for many their favourite section will be the list of markets and flea markets to be found in the region.
Each book contains over 230 pages all laid out in a beautifully designed format. The gorgeous photos are a highlight of the books and the information provided, different to other coffee table books I have read and own, will have you making notes of things see and do on your next trip to France …. if you can tear your gaze away from the photos, that is.
Both books are published by Pan Macmillan Australia.
Paris – A guide to the city’s creative heart BUY IT HERE
ISBN 978-1-7426-1062-7
Provence and the Cote D’Azur – Discover the Spirit of the South of France BUY IT HERE
ISBN 978-1-74261-328-4
