Saint Gervais, a Gorgeous Out-of-the-Way Church

St. Gervais 2

There are many huge—and hugely popular—churches in Paris that make it onto most tourists’ must-see lists: Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, Saint Sulpice, etc. But the City of Light is home to more than 125 churches, and some of the most interesting and most beautiful are among the less-popular and out-of-the-way houses of worship. One of my favorites of these less-visited sites is also one of the oldest churches in Paris (it’s roots going back to the 4th century)—Saint Gervais-Saint Protais, located just east of Hotel de Ville in the 4th Arrondissement. Continue Reading →

Free Exhibit Chronicles Paris’s 20th Century History

Paris, 1953. By Marc Riboud © Marc Riboud/Magnum Photos

A free exhibit of 150 photographs chronicling the sometimes turbulent history of Paris, its residents, and its challenges and triumphs throughout the 20th century has just been extended by a month so that Parisians and visitors to the City of Light can experience the region’s rich history as seen through the lenses of some of the world’s best photojournalists. Titled “Paris Magnum,” the exhibition includes images taken by 30 photographers from the renowned Magnum photo agency. The photo display, which opened just before last Christmas, was originally scheduled to conclude on March 27, but recently was extended an additional month through April 25. Continue Reading →

7,000 Same-Sex Weddings in France!

French gay rights protest flier 2

New reports out today show that there were 7,000 same-sex weddings in France in 2013, the first year in which marriage equality became the law of the land. And you know what, Manif Pour Tous (a hate organization that has organized violent attacks against LGBT people) and spokeswoman for homophobia, the ridiculously named Frigide Barjot: The world has not come crumbling down. Continue Reading →

Joyeux Noel!

Christmas 1

I am — and always have been — a huge Christmas Queen. And the City of Light is a delight during the holiday season. Here’s a peek at some of my experiences from my visit a year ago. There’s lots o’ pics here, so you’ll really get a good sense of what the holiday season is like in Gay Par-ee. For me, it was an absolute thrill and provided me with holiday memories I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. Joyeux Noel! Continue Reading →