" La Rive Droite " : Explore the elegant side of paris.

 " The Right Bank or La Rive Droite"

                                                                                      

The Right Bank of Paris is the eastern part of the city located to the right of the Seine River. In contrast to the Left Bank, often associated with intellectualism and bohemianism, the Right Bank is renowned for its elegance, refinement, and a more bourgeois atmosphere. It boats upscale neighborhoods, luxury boutiques, prestigious museums, as well a renowned cultural and artistic institutions.

That's why, on the afternoon of October 18th 2023, Mr. Laurent Poultier du Mesnil took us on a tour of two emblematic sites on the Right Bank.

I) L'avenue Montaigne.

Avenue Montaigne is one of the most prestigious avenues in Paris, located in the 8th arrondissement on the Right Bank. It is a mecca for luxury and fashion, home to prestigious designer boutiques, haute couture houses, jewelers and luxury hotels. Internationally renowned, the avenue is prized for its elegance and central role in the fashion industry. It attracts a wealthy clientele and is often considered the epicenter of Parisian chic.

We walked along the avenue while Mr. Laurent Poultier du Mesnil told us about the different luxury groups (such as LVMH or Kering) to which the stores belong. It was interesting to note that the competing groups faced each other and were strategically located.

II) La Samaritaine

La Samaritaine is an iconic Paris department store. Founded in the early 20th century, La Samaritaine is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture. After a period of closure and renovation, it reopened in 2021 with a contemporary design. This department store offers a unique shopping experience, combining fashion, beauty and art de vivre, with panoramic views over Paris from its terrace. La Samaritaine has become a popular destination, combining history, modernity and elegance in the heart of the French capital.

We had a great tour of the department stores together, and Mr. Laurent Poultier du Mesnil taught us a lot about the building and the history of certain brands, especially Louboutin, as well as the luxury hotel next to the Samaritaine, Le Cheval Blanc.

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I'd like to thank Mr. Laurent Poultier du Mesnil for taking the time for this outing. It was a very enriching experience and I learned a lot despite the bad weather!

Kimiko Trebaol.