Cityorkers

What makes you a real Cityorker? I am lucky enough to live and work in both New York and Paris, two fantastic cities which I regularly travel between.

How did you become one? I am English and I moved to New York nine years ago. Last year my husband was offered a job in Paris. That is when my life as a Cityorker began!

Which other Cityorkers do you know? I personally know Chad Beguelin, a Tony Award-nominated book writer and lyricist.

What do you think makes a plane journey special? During a flight I generally use the time to meditate and dream: I escape into my own little world. Being un-contactable for a few hours is a privilege which I love.

What do you think constitutes a successful flight? A comfortable seat – the OpenSkies beds are perfect – a good meal and a movie. There’s nothing better than a good comedy to pass the time!

What is the first thing you do when you arrive in New York? I go to see my acupuncturist

And in Paris? I go to my local cheese shop to stock up! There’s nowhere else on earth the cheese is so good! Then I head to Ladurée to sample some delicious macaroons.

What do you do before leaving New York? A quick manicure and pedicure. I love Chanel’s new summer colors!

And Paris? Whatever the weather is like, I go for a walk in the Jardin du Luxembourg, I sit in a deckchair and try to soak up as much as possible of the peaceful scene before me.

What is your favorite time of day in New York? New York is a city which is a constant inspiration, but I must say that my favorite time of day is morning. Lots of people walk with such determination that it motivates me for my own plans!

And in Paris? Early morning, when the shopkeepers are getting ready to open up. I love watching Paris waking up, when the pavements are washed, the front doors of apartment buildings’ polished … Every day is like the preparation for a photo shoot.

Do you have a ritual intimately associated with either city? In New York, I love doing Tai-Chi in Central Park. In Paris, I go to the organic market on the Boulevard Raspail on a Sunday morning. My husband and I try the oils and the delicious fruit and vegetables. We love chatting to the growers. Everyone has a story to tell, especially in Paris!

What about New York do you love/get excited about? I love the fact that you never really know what is going to happen from one day to the next. It is excitement combined with unexpected inspiration on every street corner – my mind moves into “stimulation overdrive”!

And Paris? It may be too obvious, but its indescribable beauty constantly moves me. Every street has something even more sensational to offer than the last.

Are there things you do more in one city than the other? Yes, I entertain a lot in Paris! We have so many family and friends in England who come to visit us, as well as friends from the US! Weekends without guests are rare, which I like a lot as I never really have time to entertain in New York.