Interview: Susan Paulson

How would you describe yourself in three adjectives?

Creative, artistic and passionate.

What is your connection to France?

My grandmother went to school at the Sorbonne in Paris, she used to talk about Paris in the ’20s.

I have always been drawn to Paris. Growing up in California everyone took Spanish in school, I took French.

What is it about Paris, in particular, that has really captured your imagination and heart?

I love walking through the streets of Paris, looking at the  buildings… imagining the history and the stories, if these buildings could talk. Paris inspires me, keeps me going, and creates ideas for design projects. Whether designing a dinner party, interior space or painting….

Professional

Business information:

Business name: The Five Senses of Paris
Address: P.O. Box 577, Diablo, Ca. 94528
Telephone number: 9258589079
Web address: www.thefivesensesofparis.com

Business questions:

How do you describe your new business, The Five Senses of Paris?

The Five Senses of Paris is a travel experience for women. Where women would come together in Paris, with me, and experience Paris from a creative perspective. Where one could engage, or observe, the arts, ask questions and listen to authors, poets, chefs, and documentary film makers… recreating the salonsof the 18th century.

Who are your customers?

Women who love to travel to Paris for a different experience. While connecting, learning and experiencing the city and its rich history.

When and why did you start your business in France?

I started my business, The Five Senses Of Paris, because I wanted to bring women together to experience this amazing city… to see, hear, taste, touch and smell the creative energy of Paris.

Are their any recent changes in France that have impacted your business?

My business is new, and the only impact that I can foresee is the changing tide of the Euro.

Paris favorites

Where is your favourite place to eat in Paris?

That is the beauty of Paris. Wherever you are, there are wonderful restaurants around every corner, sometimes you need to walk down the small streets to discover a new restaurant. One of my new favorite relaxed restaurants is in the 12th arrondissement, Le Square Trousseau. The restaurant sits on a small park where you can watch the children play. The food is delicious, and the service is friendly. I especially enjoyed the crab and avocado salad, served in a parfait glass. If you are looking for a culinary experience, the Arpege in the 7th is like no other restaurant, from the service to the architectural designed cuisine, I am always inspired by the combinations of foods.

Where is your favourite place to drink in Paris?

I guess it would depend on the season. In the spring, I love to sit on the terrace at the Mini-Palais under the grand corinthian columns and have a glass of wine or across the river seine, Café d’Alma, sitting outside and taking it all in.  In early summer, Place Dauphin (in the center of the Île de la Cité), it is cool, quiet and relaxing. In autumn, looking at the Church of St. Germain des Prés. while having a drink on the terrace at La Société.

Where is your favourite place to shop in Paris?

Walking in the 6th arrondissement to rue Bonaparte turning on to rue de Sèvres meandering over to Cherche-Midi then walk around rue Grenelle. I enjoy exploring neighborhoods in Paris. But, always remembering to look up at the architecture, as art and history are everywhere.

Where is your favourite place to play (a nightclub, a park, a museum etc.) in Paris?

Play in Paris…  isn’t that what it is all about! My favorite park would have to be Jardin du Luxembourg. It’s perfect for running, walking, playing tennis or having a picnic. The museum of choice for me is out in the 16th, musee Marmottan. The largest collection of Monet’s anywhere in the world is for you to enjoy in this beautiful mansion that overlooks a park.

Where is your favourite place to go for a day trip from Paris?

Without a doubt… Reims, Epernay, the Champagne region, northeast of Paris. The countryside is breathtaking. The Châteaux are historic, and the champagne… delicious.