Once upon a time, when it was time to choose my university major, I told my mum I wanted to study art history. She replied, “Anything else please! You’re not Kate Middleton. What will you do with that?”
So I spent two years studying German language and literature… and I was miserable. Finally, I found the courage to follow my passion. I’ll never forget my first art history class: the professors’ eyes lit up as they spoke, and we wrote down every word. That’s when I knew I had found my place.
In my family, we still joke that my mum worried so much about my future in Serbia that she had to find a Serbian-French guy to take us to Paris, the portal to my dreams, with its incredible history and world-class museums.
As a guide, I learned it’s never just about facts, it’s about love and energy. And with kids, that energy is pure magic. When I see a spark in their eyes inside a museum, I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. ✨
Growing up in Serbia, I studied art history at a time when most museums were closed. Back then, the country had bigger problems to solve, and culture wasn’t exactly a priority. But crisis makes you creative. The contemporary art scene around me showed me that art is a powerful language, a subtle, inspiring way to share ideas and record history through the most imaginative minds. Then I moved to Paris, the land of revolutions and modern art, and my path took a new turn. A friend once asked me to guide a group of students at the Louvre, and after just one tour, I knew: this was it. I had found my purpose.
I continued my studies in Paris to become a licensed guide and even wrote a project called “How to Talk to Kids About Art.” That’s also where I met Ferit. And today, from Paris and beyond, I truly enjoy every moment guiding families and kids through art. ✨
For Ljiljana, the Musée de l’Orangerie is a truly special place to experience the beauty and emotion of Impressionist art.
Best known for Claude Monet’s magnificent Water Lilies, displayed across two remarkable oval rooms, the museum invites visitors into a peaceful world of colour, light, and reflection. As you take in Monet’s sweeping compositions, you’ll discover how he transformed the beauty of nature into an immersive artistic experience. Beyond Monet, the museum also houses an impressive collection of works by artists such as Renoir, CĂ©zanne, Matisse, and Picasso. Intimate and inspiring, the Orangerie offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down, appreciate the details, and see Paris through the eyes of some of the greatest artists of the modern era.
Les Arlots
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For lovers of authentic Parisian bistro culture, Les Arlots is a true neighbourhood gem in the 10th arrondissement. With its traditional wooden bar, vintage tiled floors, and walls lined with wine bottles, this welcoming spot captures the warmth and character of old-school Paris. The kitchen celebrates generous, comforting French cuisine, with its famous homemade sausage and creamy mashed potatoes among the signature dishes, alongside seasonal specials inspired by the market. Complemented by a carefully selected wine list and a lively, convivial atmosphere, Les Arlots is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and experience the unpretentious charm of a classic Parisian bistro.
Ljiljana Perovic works with Paris and Beyond Tours, a company that’s part of A la Française Tourisme group and holds official French tourism accreditation (Atout France). They can be reached at +33 633 860 314 or via email at [email protected].
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