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Thursday, February 12, 2015

Pasadena or Paris?


Pasadena or Paris? 
I've just returned from a short trip to Pasadena, California one of my very favorite cities. While strolling through Old Town I couldn't help but notice the similarities between the two cities...

I first noticed several "French" shops-





and more than one boulangerie where I started my morning with a croissant au chocolat.






The weather is  pleasant and every street has sidewalk cafes with diners enjoying a meal al fresco.



There are eye catching window displays with the latest in fashion and home decor.






One shop had it own European village and country barnyard!


While it's not the Louvre, Pasadena is home to the 
Norton Simon Art Museum featuring an extensive collection of  renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Pissaro, Rembrandt, Degas (you get the idea!)





The Norton Simon sculpture garden.



 Plus, there's some fun and funky street art!



There are charming alleyways, antique stores, and  boutiques to explore.




Limoge "Lady and the Unicorn "plates patterned after the tapestries in the Cluny Museum in Paris.

And did I mention the architecture?



I could go on and on.
 I realize there is really no substitute for Paris, but if you can't get to France, a weekend in Pasadena is a charming alternative!

I like to join

7 comments :

  1. Pasadena is a fabulous city. I love it too.

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  2. I've never been to Pasadena, but through your gorgeous photos I feel like I just took a mini vacation! Thanks!

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  3. What a fun trip! I've never visited Pasadena, but you are right, it looks like it could be the next best thing to a trip to Paris! I'm drooling over those croissants:)

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  4. That is so interesting. I have never been to Pasadena, but I have lived in Paris for the last 2 years. Your pictures do look a lot like a European city. What a fun trip. Thanks for sharing.

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  5. Beautiful area!! Thank you for linking with Home Sweet Home!
    Sherry

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  6. Oh my, I really enjoyed taking a tour of Pasadena with you, filled with Frenchy inspiration! I love the beautiful signs of the French bakeries and florist! Thanks for sharing these awesome pictures of Pasadena that inspire me to visit the city :) Happily following you back via GFC! ~ Hugs, Poppy

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  7. Oh my, I really enjoyed taking a tour of Pasadena with you, filled with Frenchy inspiration! I love the beautiful signs of the French bakeries and florist! Thanks for sharing these awesome pictures of Pasadena that inspire me to visit the city :) Happily following you back via GFC! ~ Hugs, Poppy

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