There's no better time to dive even deeper into your yoga practice than when you travel. Keeping to a familiar routine grounds you as you zip across continents and time zones, and helps bring a sense of calm and well-being that does wonders to temper the stresses of travel. After you've unpacked your bag and settled in, seek out one of these three fabulous studios where you'll be welcomed like an old friend--in English!--and where serenity and a good workout await.
| Centre de Iyengar Yoga de Montmartre 16 rue des Cloyes Metro: Jules Joffrin Ambiance: Calm, welcoming, and warm (thanks to a heated floor and a friendly proprietor!) What makes this compact, bright, and spotless studio so special is its lovely owner/instructor, Sophie Boller. Boller, who studied extensively with BKS Iyengar in India, also spent many years living in Santa Monica, and brings a relaxed, welcoming California sensibility to her classes. Mats, blankets, and accoutrements are provided to every student, and each 2-hour class is limited to 12 so everyone gets individualized attention. Book in advance! Private instruction is another solid option. Tip: Refuel with a veggie burger at Boller's nearby local favorite, Hope Cafe, when class lets out. | |
| Ashtanga Yoga Paris 40 avenue de la Republique Metro: Parmentier or Republique Ambiance: East-side hipster with a side of hippy Run by a Franco-American husband-and-wife team, this yoga studio tucked into a little courtyard offers bilingual classes in a relaxed atmosphere. Mats are available for rent for €2, and the weekly, sliding scale Community Class is great for students and others on a budget. Events are held at the studio year-round, and an annual open house allows you to test drive a class or two for free. Tip: If you're a yogini who hankers for a good cup of coffee before or after a class, nearby Fondation Cafe delivers the goods. | |
| Le Tigre Yoga Club 17-19 rue de Chaillot Metro: Iena or Alma-Marceau Ambiance: Chic, sleek, and full-service This chi-chi yoga club in the equally chi-chi 16e arrondissement opened with much fanfare this year, thanks to its elegantly designed interior and unusual perks, including valet parking and on-site cafe. English-speaking owner Elodie Garamond describes the space--which is housed on the ground floor of a modern apartment complex--as a place where "people take time to chill and enjoy, meet friends, relax, have fun, enjoy a massage or a fresh squeezed juice," Classes, which run the gamut from Ashtanga and Vinyasa to the more intriguing Hormones Class (which we can recommend!) and Meditation, are offered 7 days a week--a rarity in the City of Light--and 8 of those classes are taught in English. Tip: If your traveler's budget includes a stipend for high-end yoga gear, you'll love browsing the rack of €250 sweatshirts and other designer duds for deluxe yoginis. | |
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