Paris beckons with its timeless charms.

Paris, a timely city, is one brimming with aspirations for the future and also with yearning looks towards the past. The French capital is a bustling city of excellence, housing everything modern about humans and their innovations, among which is the Paris Fashion Week, a celebration of the glamorous highs of the realm of fashion.

Ahead of the Paris Fashion Week, KHAMSA descends into the ever-familiar city of Paris and rediscovers its many wonders with the help of Najwa Harfouch (@najharfouch on Instagram). Najwa is the founder of Wumi Intimate Care and is a former fashion stylist. She has a close association with France, having grown up in Paris.

Paris rhythms are slow and fast all at once—lazy afternoons by the Seine contrast with electric nights in underground clubs. As Najwa will affirm, it is a city of that never stops reinventing itself, yet never forgets where it came from.

Top must-visit food spots?

Localino

For Italian food, I would go to Localino which offers an intimate vibe paired with fresh products and new discoveries about Italian culinary.

Café Nuances

For a coffee, I would definitely go here!

Déviant

For natural wine and bites.

Tagine

If you want the best Couscous, go to Tagine in the 11th, she is actually Chef Jaïs’ mom.

Sugaar

For a before dinner drink, I would go to Sugaar.

Base

Best matcha and best Chaï latte.

La Cave de Septime

A wine bar with some stellar offerings.

Best places for sundowners?

https://www.instagram.com/p/C3u3jEZM1Ar/?igsh=dnVxN2JvdXQxMzZw

Langosteria is the most beautiful view of Paris and also the most delicious.”

– Najwa Harfouch

Best places for shopping?

Nice Piece Vintage and Modes

https://www.instagram.com/p/C3YjG-erf4T/?hl=en

Must-visit cultural spots?

Image courtesy Musée Jacquemart André

“My favourite museum is Musée Jacquemart André. I just love going there and see either their exhibitions or their permanent collection. The museum is small and the little café at the end is very Parisian.”

– Najwa Harfouch

Best boutique hotels to stay in?

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_0ka_wNN4F/?hl=en

L’Hôtel in St Germain is like a mini Hotel Costes in and very secret.”

Underrated places?

https://www.instagram.com/p/CpiuysqoEFq/?hl=en&img_index=1

Le Market. A classic avenue Matignon, very consistent, very nice for family lunch or friends.”

What should you avoid?

https://www.instagram.com/p/C6o0x3xSkAu/?hl=en

“Places that exist in every city of the world, you would really miss the Paris experience.”

– Najwa Harfoush

Must-pack items?

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_JetAwsGMi/?hl=en&img_index=1

“Comfortable but stylish shoes, because the best thing to do in Paris is walking.”

Any tips and tricks to tackle the city? 

“I would only get taxis, because now, traffic is insane in Paris, and they have a road specially for them. Download the G7 app.

“I love to have a lymphatic massage after travelling, the best in Paris is Jaqueline (@braziliantouch_jack on Instagram). She comes to your place and makes you feel so light right after. The effects are showing for a few days.”

I'm Leila Al Fayyez, a 28-year-old Iraqi writer with a deep love for storytelling, fashion, and the energy of youth culture. I write to explore identity, freedom, and everything that moves and challenges my generation—from digital life to self-expression, especially at KHAMSA. I aim to connect, question, and inspire through words that reflect who we are and where we're headed. You can contact me on editors@khamsa5.com
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