Susan lives in Coulommiers, a rural town which is thriving thanks to its location 20 minutes from Disneyland, yet manages to retain its rural character including a farmers market twice a week selling local produce. In describing the features of the town, Susan highlights some attractive features of the area. "There is "La Commanderie des Templiers" which dates back to the 12th Century, with a spectacular structure, a commanding courtyard and pigeon loft. It boasts a garden that grows plants cultivated for medicinal purposes in medieval days.
One of the most fascinating buildings is the bibliothèque (library) which was built in the town centre in 1860, it served as a women’s prison and has been beautifully restored. The town also has a spacious park "de Capucins" with excellent sporting facilities. There is the "garnished" section of the park where newly married couples congregate in the summer for wedding photos. It also boasts a charming old chapel, recently renovated and re-opened as a museum. A canal runs through the town centre and in summer you can hire kayaks to get a ducks view of the town. Talking of ducks, they are in abundance in the park.
Restaurants worth a visit include "Atmosphere", although the portions wouldn't keep a big appetite satisfied it offers authentic dishes and is well-presented. The open terrace with a view of the canal makes it a popular location in summer. For authentic local produce I favour a farm at Lumigny-Nesles that sells a variety of artisanal produce from the area. It's also a good day out as you can pick your own vegetables and fruit."
When asked about her experience of Paris and favourite haunts, Susan offered these recommendations: ‘When I go to Paris it's normally for a set reason - an exhibition, a specific purchase or taking
friends and family to "see" Paris. I can quite openly boast of having been up and down the Eiffel Tower 7 times, a feat that many Parisians have rarely undertaken once, it being kind of taken for granted. One of my favourite eateries in Paris (for originality) is "Les Ancètres des Gaulois" which can be found in the heart of Isle Saint Louis and offers a complete menu for 40€ per person.
The best view of Paris in my opinion is from the Sacre Coeur, especially when the sun is setting. Unfortunately many others think the same, and in the summer time you have difficulty finding a seat on the steps or even wending your way through the bodies to the top.’
Visiting Europe’s capital cities, especially Paris, can prove to be the trip of a lifetime blighted only by the charges imposed by small and large hotels alike. So how about housesitting only an hour from Paris?
By Lamia Walker
Founder – HouseSitMatch.com
The online network for home owners and housesitters.
Susan with her beloved dogs at home in France