The Other Paris: Exploring the Shadow Side of the City of Light, with Tarot Scholar Laetitia Barbier and Cemetery Expert Allison C. Meier, October 2025
Date: Thursday October 2, 2025 to Tuesday October 7, 2025
5 Days / 5 Nights in Paris
Price: $1,995 for single rooms and $3,990 for twin or double rooms. Please note that these rates do not include airfare.
This trip is sold out for now, to add your name on the waiting list, send us an email at info@arcane17.co
“The journey to Paris with Laeti and Allison was an unforgettable adventure. Each day was like opening a treasure box that had been lovingly curated for us all. A perfect balance of mystery and scholarship, sprinkled with a bit of Laeti’s personal history of Paris, this trip helped me to see Tarot not as simply a tool for divination, but a way of reading the world in real time through studying its origins and tributaries.”
—Marianne McCarthy
This October, join Laetitia Barbier, former Parisienne and Allison C. Meier, cemetery expert on a tour through the shadows in the city of light, the "other Paris," as Lucy Sante might describe it.
Breaking away from the well-trodden tourist paths and postcard-perfect Parisian views, this five-day journey unveils the esoteric, extraordinary, and often hidden facets of the French capital. Discover places rarely seen, wander through private streets, explore a haunted manor in the heart of the red-light district, marvel at a psychedelic shrine of doppelgangers, and piece together the remnants of a discreetly magical city across time.
Program, Visits, and Other Festivities:
Historical and Esoteric Tarots from the Museum of Playing Cards collection, special tour with curator Gwenael Beuchet.
Housing an extensive collection of antique and modern cards from across the globe, this little known institution explores the fascinating evolution of card games, tarot decks, and their cultural significance. Beuchet’s tour will focus on Tarot as a game and its pivotal role in the development of the French occult revival.
The Paris Catacombes
Paris Catacombs is a vast underground ossuary that holds the remains of over six million people. Situated 20 meters below ground, this labyrinth of tunnels was created in the late 18th century to address overcrowding in Parisian cemeteries. Bones from various cemeteries were transferred and carefully arranged along the walls of the passageways, resulting in an eerie yet fascinating necropolis.
David Sphaeros Psychedelic Shrine.
Join us for a happy hour and special tour of David Sphaeros's lair, where the polymorphic artist and musician—founder of the noir psychedelia band Aqua Nebula Oscillator—has transformed his 17th-century cave atelier into a surrealist wunderkammer. Amid his life-size doppelgangers and gracefully bizarre creations, Sphaeros will regale us with stories as we enjoy drinks and explore his artistic sanctuary, a realm that blends dark mystique with the fantastical. Everyone in Paris knows about it, but very few have ever managed to get in. And yet, we will!
Visit of the Pere Lachaise Cemetery.
Located in Paris's 20th arrondissement, Père Lachaise Cemetery is the city's largest and most iconic cemetery. Established in 1804, it spans over 100 acres and is renowned for its serene, otherworldly ambiance, often serving as a backdrop for vampire films and nearly every 80s goth kid's photoshoot. Massive Cemetery nerds Allison and Laetitia will lead you to the final resting place of many notable figures, including Oscar Wilde and his now “kiss-proof” tomb, Marcel Proust, Alan Kardec, founder of Spiritism, famed fortune-teller Mademoiselle Lenormand and Fantasmagoria magic lanternist Roberston. Guests will be invited to wander on their own through its winding pathways to admire elaborate tombs, sculptures, mausoleums and meet the extraordinary fauna (cats, ravens and occasional foxes) for which the necropolis is a safe nest.
Soirée at the Haunted Maison Frochot
Nicknamed the "most haunted house in Paris," this neo-Gothic townhouse has become shrouded in local legend and mystery, owing to an unresolved murder and a past filled with eerie occurrences within its walls. Nestled on a private street near Pigalle's red-light district, Maison Frochot has changed ownership multiple times, partly because of its tales of ghosts and tragedies. It is now the private home of a medium who doubles as a piano virtuoso. And we'll get to party there!
A Full Day at Les Puces de Saint Ouen, the legendary Paris Flea Market.
Sundays are for antiquing, and Paris is probably the most wonderful and last place where you can do so, find extraordinary things, and not necessarily break the bank. Join black-belt flea marketer Laetitia, who spent nearly all her Parisian years exploring the different marchés. She'll introduce you to the most intriguing peddlers and help you find your antique white whale.
The Carnival Arts Museum:
We’ll take a whimsical dive through the festive spirit and showmanship of old-time fairs and cabarets. Le Musee des Arts Forains house a jaw-dropping collection of 19th Century and early 20th Century carnival rides and carousels, vintage games, and fairground artifacts. The immersive experience brings history to life with interactive exhibits, where guests can ride merry-go-rounds and explore lavishly decorated theatrical sets.
The Gustave Moreau House Museum
The house and studio of symbolist master Gustave Moreau is one of Paris’s hidden treasures, a dreamer’s sanctuary where his singular vision permeates every detail. This decadent hôtel particulier unfolds as a realm of imagination, where sphinxes, goddesses, the languid Salome, and ancient deities come vividly to life. Palissy’s serpents, chinoiserie, and archeological marvels populate this unparalleled cabinet of curiosities—a labyrinth of beauty and strangeness. Moreau’s enigmatic world even inspired Des Esseintes’ manor in Joris-Karl Huysmans’ À Rebours, making it a living monument to sublime.
Museum of Compared Anatomy:
The Museum of Comparative Anatomy, known as the Galerie d'Anatomie Comparée in French, is part of Paris's National Museum of Natural History. Established in 1898 and housed in the Jardin des Plantes, this grand Art Nouveau museum boasts an extensive collection of skeletal specimens from both the human and animal realms. Through its epically scaled exhibits, it highlights the anatomical similarities and differences between species, offering a fascinating exploration of evolutionary connections across the animal kingdom.
The Curiouser Montmartre:
We’ll lead in a special walking tour in the less touristy part of Montmartre, we’ll go to the Saint Rita Shrine, the unofficial patron of the neighborhood sex-workers, take a quick look at the Montmartre Cemetery and visit the tomb of disco queen Dalida as well as the Samson, a dynasty of executioners. We’ll pay a visit to Marcel Belline’s former divination home, conveniently located near surrealist pope Andre Breton’s apartment.
Literary and Alchemical Saint Michel Walking Tour
We'll spend an afternoon strolling through the Latin Quarter, exploring remnants of alchemical Paris and passing by some of its most iconic literary landmarks. We'll stop at Un Regard Moderne, the best bookstore in Paris, roam in passages, see Le Procope, and the Beat Hotel, where William Burroughs finished writing Naked Lunch and Brion Gysin once lived.
Our trip will be punctuated by delightful apéros—the quintessential French happy hours—and other curated food tastings, ensuring you savor the very best of France’s intangible cultural heritage: Food and wine!
Your Tour Guides
French-born Laetitia Barbier is an independent scholar, as well as a professional tarot reader and teacher. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Art History from La Sorbonne University Paris in 2009. Laetitia has worked with Morbid Anatomy from 2012 to 2024 as a programming director, head librarian, and occasional curator. Her book Tarot and Divination Cards: A Visual Archivewas published in 2021 with a foreword by Rachel Pollack. She is the author of the Tiger Tarot Guide Book, a unique Tarot deck by symbolist artist Lori Field. As a writer and scholar, she has the privilege of collaborating with the iconic French maître-cartier Grimaud, notably on the exquisite re-release of their 1930s Tarot de Marseille and Belline Oracle.
Laetitia has lectured, taught and read cards for various cultural institutions, such as Greenwood Cemetery, Artyard, Fotografiska NY, the College of Psychic Studies in Londonor the New York Public Library. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Allison C. Meier is a Brooklyn-based writer, editor, and researcher. Her book Grave was published this year by Bloomsbury as part of the Object Lessons book series. She is the editor of Fine Books & Collections magazine and has bylines in the New York Times, CityLab, National Geographic, Smithsonian, and many other publications. She is a licensed NYC sightseeing guide who regularly leads tours in cemeteries.
Where We’ll Stay:
In the heart of the 11th Arrondissement, where Parisians live, work, and enjoy authentic fun, far from the typical touristy areas. We’ll be just a five-minute walk from Rue Oberkampf—Laetitia’s former neighborhood—a lively hub of charming cafés, vintage shops, and culinary delights. Steps away, you’ll also find Hors Circuits, a treasure trove for fans of rare films and DVDs. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of the Parmentier metro station and the beautiful Saint Ambroise Church.
This Trip Includes:
Five nights at Hôtel des Métallos
A 7-day Metro Card for seamless city exploration.
Delicious local experiences including wine, cheese, and other culinary delights, beginning with our first evening’s aperitif at Sphaeros and continuing with Belladone Antiques on Sunday at the flea market.
Access to all activities, including museum visits, curator-led tours, and guided walking tours
An exclusive soirée at Avenue Frochot with food and drinks, plus comfortable transportation back to the hotel afterward.
A group dinner at Chez Justine on Monday evening, a beloved neighborhood restaurant located near the hotel.
This Trip Does Not Include:
Airfare: Round-trip plane tickets are not included.
Meals: Participants will cover most of their own breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The neighborhood offers a vibrant selection of dining options, including charming restaurants (with vegan and vegetarian options), supermarkets, and traiteurs (delis) for quick and convenient meals. Paris is celebrated for its culinary diversity, ensuring something to delight every palate and accommodate various dietary needs.
Hotel Breakfast: The hotel offers a sit-down breakfast for an additional fee, but you’re welcome to join us for a traditional café on the terrace—a quintessentially Parisian way to begin the day.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged individually.
Additional Hotel Nights: If you wish to extend your stay beyond the five nights included, you’ll need to make these arrangements directly with the hotel. While Laetitia won’t be able to book it for you, she’ll be happy to assist with personalized recommendations, help you navigate your search, and suggest neighborhoods to explore. (The hotel staff is very friendly and accommodating, making the process easy!)
Official Start of the Trip: Thursday October 2nd - 4pm
Official End of the Trip: Tuesday October 7pm - 2pm
Important Note:
Transportation:
Due to the extensive construction and ongoing renovations in Paris, navigating the city by car has become increasingly challenging. Just ask any Parisian cab driver—they’ll confirm it! To ensure efficiency and a true Parisian experience, we’ll primarily rely on the city’s excellent public transportation system and enjoy many activities on foot.
Please keep this in mind when planning your trip. We’ll be walking a lot. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
The itinerary will remain flexible, allowing you the option to take a break and explore on your own if needed. Whether you want a quiet afternoon or have a specific spot you’d like to visit, we’re always available to provide assistance and recommendations to ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Cancellations:
Cancellations made by April 1, 2025, are eligible for a full refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after June 1, 2025.
The program might be subject to change as we continue to refine the details.
Reviews:
In a literal way Peculiar Paris was a gift to myself and it turned out to contain gifts of many varieties both material and spiritual. Laeti’s organization and generosity of spirit was a gift. Meeting her friends and visiting her special places felt like a gift. Experiencing so much visual astonishment led by the eyeball enchantress herself and developing natural friendships with fellow Peculiarites were gifts. There was no pressure to do anything we didn’t want to. It was an easygoing vibe yet we did so much. Allison deeply enriched the experience with her big beautiful history brain. I would go anywhere with those women at the helm.
Michelle
Laetitia's trip through Paris was a cornucopia of delights! Highlights included the Carnival Arts museum with a dizzyingly wonderful ride on a bicycle-powered carousel, a curated tour of the Playing Card Museum, a soiree in a Haunted Mansion, a deep dive into the Catacombs, a wine and cheese gathering in a psychedelic art cave. . .Laetitia was a knowledgeable, gracious, and generous guide whose knowledge of Paris, art history, tarot, cemeteries enriched an amazing experience. If you are a grown up goth (or not!), this is the trip of a lifetime not to be missed.
Lisa
Explore Paris with Laetitia Barbier? Yes, please!
This October, I had the incredible good fortune to join Laetitia Barbier and Allison C. Meier on a five-day journey into the 'other Paris.' This trip was unlike any other I've experienced, taking us deep into the esoteric and hidden gems of the city. Our group of 13 made the most of our time, exploring parts of Paris that simply are not available on average tours -- like David Spaeros's psychedelic shrine and a lively evening at Maison Frochot. Our day at the Paris flea market was a treasure hunt like no other, and staying in the 11th arrondissement allowed us to experience the authentic Parisian lifestyle. This trip was a perfect blend of history, mystery, and unique experiences, and although we were travelling as a group, everyone had freedom to do as much or as little as they wanted. I enthusiastically recommend this trip to anyone looking to see a different side of Paris! 11/10!!
Renee
Date: Thursday October 2, 2025 to Tuesday October 7, 2025
5 Days / 5 Nights in Paris
Price: $1,995 for single rooms and $3,990 for twin or double rooms. Please note that these rates do not include airfare.
This trip is sold out for now, to add your name on the waiting list, send us an email at info@arcane17.co
“The journey to Paris with Laeti and Allison was an unforgettable adventure. Each day was like opening a treasure box that had been lovingly curated for us all. A perfect balance of mystery and scholarship, sprinkled with a bit of Laeti’s personal history of Paris, this trip helped me to see Tarot not as simply a tool for divination, but a way of reading the world in real time through studying its origins and tributaries.”
—Marianne McCarthy
This October, join Laetitia Barbier, former Parisienne and Allison C. Meier, cemetery expert on a tour through the shadows in the city of light, the "other Paris," as Lucy Sante might describe it.
Breaking away from the well-trodden tourist paths and postcard-perfect Parisian views, this five-day journey unveils the esoteric, extraordinary, and often hidden facets of the French capital. Discover places rarely seen, wander through private streets, explore a haunted manor in the heart of the red-light district, marvel at a psychedelic shrine of doppelgangers, and piece together the remnants of a discreetly magical city across time.
Program, Visits, and Other Festivities:
Historical and Esoteric Tarots from the Museum of Playing Cards collection, special tour with curator Gwenael Beuchet.
Housing an extensive collection of antique and modern cards from across the globe, this little known institution explores the fascinating evolution of card games, tarot decks, and their cultural significance. Beuchet’s tour will focus on Tarot as a game and its pivotal role in the development of the French occult revival.
The Paris Catacombes
Paris Catacombs is a vast underground ossuary that holds the remains of over six million people. Situated 20 meters below ground, this labyrinth of tunnels was created in the late 18th century to address overcrowding in Parisian cemeteries. Bones from various cemeteries were transferred and carefully arranged along the walls of the passageways, resulting in an eerie yet fascinating necropolis.
David Sphaeros Psychedelic Shrine.
Join us for a happy hour and special tour of David Sphaeros's lair, where the polymorphic artist and musician—founder of the noir psychedelia band Aqua Nebula Oscillator—has transformed his 17th-century cave atelier into a surrealist wunderkammer. Amid his life-size doppelgangers and gracefully bizarre creations, Sphaeros will regale us with stories as we enjoy drinks and explore his artistic sanctuary, a realm that blends dark mystique with the fantastical. Everyone in Paris knows about it, but very few have ever managed to get in. And yet, we will!
Visit of the Pere Lachaise Cemetery.
Located in Paris's 20th arrondissement, Père Lachaise Cemetery is the city's largest and most iconic cemetery. Established in 1804, it spans over 100 acres and is renowned for its serene, otherworldly ambiance, often serving as a backdrop for vampire films and nearly every 80s goth kid's photoshoot. Massive Cemetery nerds Allison and Laetitia will lead you to the final resting place of many notable figures, including Oscar Wilde and his now “kiss-proof” tomb, Marcel Proust, Alan Kardec, founder of Spiritism, famed fortune-teller Mademoiselle Lenormand and Fantasmagoria magic lanternist Roberston. Guests will be invited to wander on their own through its winding pathways to admire elaborate tombs, sculptures, mausoleums and meet the extraordinary fauna (cats, ravens and occasional foxes) for which the necropolis is a safe nest.
Soirée at the Haunted Maison Frochot
Nicknamed the "most haunted house in Paris," this neo-Gothic townhouse has become shrouded in local legend and mystery, owing to an unresolved murder and a past filled with eerie occurrences within its walls. Nestled on a private street near Pigalle's red-light district, Maison Frochot has changed ownership multiple times, partly because of its tales of ghosts and tragedies. It is now the private home of a medium who doubles as a piano virtuoso. And we'll get to party there!
A Full Day at Les Puces de Saint Ouen, the legendary Paris Flea Market.
Sundays are for antiquing, and Paris is probably the most wonderful and last place where you can do so, find extraordinary things, and not necessarily break the bank. Join black-belt flea marketer Laetitia, who spent nearly all her Parisian years exploring the different marchés. She'll introduce you to the most intriguing peddlers and help you find your antique white whale.
The Carnival Arts Museum:
We’ll take a whimsical dive through the festive spirit and showmanship of old-time fairs and cabarets. Le Musee des Arts Forains house a jaw-dropping collection of 19th Century and early 20th Century carnival rides and carousels, vintage games, and fairground artifacts. The immersive experience brings history to life with interactive exhibits, where guests can ride merry-go-rounds and explore lavishly decorated theatrical sets.
The Gustave Moreau House Museum
The house and studio of symbolist master Gustave Moreau is one of Paris’s hidden treasures, a dreamer’s sanctuary where his singular vision permeates every detail. This decadent hôtel particulier unfolds as a realm of imagination, where sphinxes, goddesses, the languid Salome, and ancient deities come vividly to life. Palissy’s serpents, chinoiserie, and archeological marvels populate this unparalleled cabinet of curiosities—a labyrinth of beauty and strangeness. Moreau’s enigmatic world even inspired Des Esseintes’ manor in Joris-Karl Huysmans’ À Rebours, making it a living monument to sublime.
Museum of Compared Anatomy:
The Museum of Comparative Anatomy, known as the Galerie d'Anatomie Comparée in French, is part of Paris's National Museum of Natural History. Established in 1898 and housed in the Jardin des Plantes, this grand Art Nouveau museum boasts an extensive collection of skeletal specimens from both the human and animal realms. Through its epically scaled exhibits, it highlights the anatomical similarities and differences between species, offering a fascinating exploration of evolutionary connections across the animal kingdom.
The Curiouser Montmartre:
We’ll lead in a special walking tour in the less touristy part of Montmartre, we’ll go to the Saint Rita Shrine, the unofficial patron of the neighborhood sex-workers, take a quick look at the Montmartre Cemetery and visit the tomb of disco queen Dalida as well as the Samson, a dynasty of executioners. We’ll pay a visit to Marcel Belline’s former divination home, conveniently located near surrealist pope Andre Breton’s apartment.
Literary and Alchemical Saint Michel Walking Tour
We'll spend an afternoon strolling through the Latin Quarter, exploring remnants of alchemical Paris and passing by some of its most iconic literary landmarks. We'll stop at Un Regard Moderne, the best bookstore in Paris, roam in passages, see Le Procope, and the Beat Hotel, where William Burroughs finished writing Naked Lunch and Brion Gysin once lived.
Our trip will be punctuated by delightful apéros—the quintessential French happy hours—and other curated food tastings, ensuring you savor the very best of France’s intangible cultural heritage: Food and wine!
Your Tour Guides
French-born Laetitia Barbier is an independent scholar, as well as a professional tarot reader and teacher. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Art History from La Sorbonne University Paris in 2009. Laetitia has worked with Morbid Anatomy from 2012 to 2024 as a programming director, head librarian, and occasional curator. Her book Tarot and Divination Cards: A Visual Archivewas published in 2021 with a foreword by Rachel Pollack. She is the author of the Tiger Tarot Guide Book, a unique Tarot deck by symbolist artist Lori Field. As a writer and scholar, she has the privilege of collaborating with the iconic French maître-cartier Grimaud, notably on the exquisite re-release of their 1930s Tarot de Marseille and Belline Oracle.
Laetitia has lectured, taught and read cards for various cultural institutions, such as Greenwood Cemetery, Artyard, Fotografiska NY, the College of Psychic Studies in Londonor the New York Public Library. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Allison C. Meier is a Brooklyn-based writer, editor, and researcher. Her book Grave was published this year by Bloomsbury as part of the Object Lessons book series. She is the editor of Fine Books & Collections magazine and has bylines in the New York Times, CityLab, National Geographic, Smithsonian, and many other publications. She is a licensed NYC sightseeing guide who regularly leads tours in cemeteries.
Where We’ll Stay:
In the heart of the 11th Arrondissement, where Parisians live, work, and enjoy authentic fun, far from the typical touristy areas. We’ll be just a five-minute walk from Rue Oberkampf—Laetitia’s former neighborhood—a lively hub of charming cafés, vintage shops, and culinary delights. Steps away, you’ll also find Hors Circuits, a treasure trove for fans of rare films and DVDs. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of the Parmentier metro station and the beautiful Saint Ambroise Church.
This Trip Includes:
Five nights at Hôtel des Métallos
A 7-day Metro Card for seamless city exploration.
Delicious local experiences including wine, cheese, and other culinary delights, beginning with our first evening’s aperitif at Sphaeros and continuing with Belladone Antiques on Sunday at the flea market.
Access to all activities, including museum visits, curator-led tours, and guided walking tours
An exclusive soirée at Avenue Frochot with food and drinks, plus comfortable transportation back to the hotel afterward.
A group dinner at Chez Justine on Monday evening, a beloved neighborhood restaurant located near the hotel.
This Trip Does Not Include:
Airfare: Round-trip plane tickets are not included.
Meals: Participants will cover most of their own breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The neighborhood offers a vibrant selection of dining options, including charming restaurants (with vegan and vegetarian options), supermarkets, and traiteurs (delis) for quick and convenient meals. Paris is celebrated for its culinary diversity, ensuring something to delight every palate and accommodate various dietary needs.
Hotel Breakfast: The hotel offers a sit-down breakfast for an additional fee, but you’re welcome to join us for a traditional café on the terrace—a quintessentially Parisian way to begin the day.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged individually.
Additional Hotel Nights: If you wish to extend your stay beyond the five nights included, you’ll need to make these arrangements directly with the hotel. While Laetitia won’t be able to book it for you, she’ll be happy to assist with personalized recommendations, help you navigate your search, and suggest neighborhoods to explore. (The hotel staff is very friendly and accommodating, making the process easy!)
Official Start of the Trip: Thursday October 2nd - 4pm
Official End of the Trip: Tuesday October 7pm - 2pm
Important Note:
Transportation:
Due to the extensive construction and ongoing renovations in Paris, navigating the city by car has become increasingly challenging. Just ask any Parisian cab driver—they’ll confirm it! To ensure efficiency and a true Parisian experience, we’ll primarily rely on the city’s excellent public transportation system and enjoy many activities on foot.
Please keep this in mind when planning your trip. We’ll be walking a lot. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
The itinerary will remain flexible, allowing you the option to take a break and explore on your own if needed. Whether you want a quiet afternoon or have a specific spot you’d like to visit, we’re always available to provide assistance and recommendations to ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Cancellations:
Cancellations made by April 1, 2025, are eligible for a full refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after June 1, 2025.
The program might be subject to change as we continue to refine the details.
Reviews:
In a literal way Peculiar Paris was a gift to myself and it turned out to contain gifts of many varieties both material and spiritual. Laeti’s organization and generosity of spirit was a gift. Meeting her friends and visiting her special places felt like a gift. Experiencing so much visual astonishment led by the eyeball enchantress herself and developing natural friendships with fellow Peculiarites were gifts. There was no pressure to do anything we didn’t want to. It was an easygoing vibe yet we did so much. Allison deeply enriched the experience with her big beautiful history brain. I would go anywhere with those women at the helm.
Michelle
Laetitia's trip through Paris was a cornucopia of delights! Highlights included the Carnival Arts museum with a dizzyingly wonderful ride on a bicycle-powered carousel, a curated tour of the Playing Card Museum, a soiree in a Haunted Mansion, a deep dive into the Catacombs, a wine and cheese gathering in a psychedelic art cave. . .Laetitia was a knowledgeable, gracious, and generous guide whose knowledge of Paris, art history, tarot, cemeteries enriched an amazing experience. If you are a grown up goth (or not!), this is the trip of a lifetime not to be missed.
Lisa
Explore Paris with Laetitia Barbier? Yes, please!
This October, I had the incredible good fortune to join Laetitia Barbier and Allison C. Meier on a five-day journey into the 'other Paris.' This trip was unlike any other I've experienced, taking us deep into the esoteric and hidden gems of the city. Our group of 13 made the most of our time, exploring parts of Paris that simply are not available on average tours -- like David Spaeros's psychedelic shrine and a lively evening at Maison Frochot. Our day at the Paris flea market was a treasure hunt like no other, and staying in the 11th arrondissement allowed us to experience the authentic Parisian lifestyle. This trip was a perfect blend of history, mystery, and unique experiences, and although we were travelling as a group, everyone had freedom to do as much or as little as they wanted. I enthusiastically recommend this trip to anyone looking to see a different side of Paris! 11/10!!
Renee
Date: Thursday October 2, 2025 to Tuesday October 7, 2025
5 Days / 5 Nights in Paris
Price: $1,995 for single rooms and $3,990 for twin or double rooms. Please note that these rates do not include airfare.
This trip is sold out for now, to add your name on the waiting list, send us an email at info@arcane17.co
“The journey to Paris with Laeti and Allison was an unforgettable adventure. Each day was like opening a treasure box that had been lovingly curated for us all. A perfect balance of mystery and scholarship, sprinkled with a bit of Laeti’s personal history of Paris, this trip helped me to see Tarot not as simply a tool for divination, but a way of reading the world in real time through studying its origins and tributaries.”
—Marianne McCarthy
This October, join Laetitia Barbier, former Parisienne and Allison C. Meier, cemetery expert on a tour through the shadows in the city of light, the "other Paris," as Lucy Sante might describe it.
Breaking away from the well-trodden tourist paths and postcard-perfect Parisian views, this five-day journey unveils the esoteric, extraordinary, and often hidden facets of the French capital. Discover places rarely seen, wander through private streets, explore a haunted manor in the heart of the red-light district, marvel at a psychedelic shrine of doppelgangers, and piece together the remnants of a discreetly magical city across time.
Program, Visits, and Other Festivities:
Historical and Esoteric Tarots from the Museum of Playing Cards collection, special tour with curator Gwenael Beuchet.
Housing an extensive collection of antique and modern cards from across the globe, this little known institution explores the fascinating evolution of card games, tarot decks, and their cultural significance. Beuchet’s tour will focus on Tarot as a game and its pivotal role in the development of the French occult revival.
The Paris Catacombes
Paris Catacombs is a vast underground ossuary that holds the remains of over six million people. Situated 20 meters below ground, this labyrinth of tunnels was created in the late 18th century to address overcrowding in Parisian cemeteries. Bones from various cemeteries were transferred and carefully arranged along the walls of the passageways, resulting in an eerie yet fascinating necropolis.
David Sphaeros Psychedelic Shrine.
Join us for a happy hour and special tour of David Sphaeros's lair, where the polymorphic artist and musician—founder of the noir psychedelia band Aqua Nebula Oscillator—has transformed his 17th-century cave atelier into a surrealist wunderkammer. Amid his life-size doppelgangers and gracefully bizarre creations, Sphaeros will regale us with stories as we enjoy drinks and explore his artistic sanctuary, a realm that blends dark mystique with the fantastical. Everyone in Paris knows about it, but very few have ever managed to get in. And yet, we will!
Visit of the Pere Lachaise Cemetery.
Located in Paris's 20th arrondissement, Père Lachaise Cemetery is the city's largest and most iconic cemetery. Established in 1804, it spans over 100 acres and is renowned for its serene, otherworldly ambiance, often serving as a backdrop for vampire films and nearly every 80s goth kid's photoshoot. Massive Cemetery nerds Allison and Laetitia will lead you to the final resting place of many notable figures, including Oscar Wilde and his now “kiss-proof” tomb, Marcel Proust, Alan Kardec, founder of Spiritism, famed fortune-teller Mademoiselle Lenormand and Fantasmagoria magic lanternist Roberston. Guests will be invited to wander on their own through its winding pathways to admire elaborate tombs, sculptures, mausoleums and meet the extraordinary fauna (cats, ravens and occasional foxes) for which the necropolis is a safe nest.
Soirée at the Haunted Maison Frochot
Nicknamed the "most haunted house in Paris," this neo-Gothic townhouse has become shrouded in local legend and mystery, owing to an unresolved murder and a past filled with eerie occurrences within its walls. Nestled on a private street near Pigalle's red-light district, Maison Frochot has changed ownership multiple times, partly because of its tales of ghosts and tragedies. It is now the private home of a medium who doubles as a piano virtuoso. And we'll get to party there!
A Full Day at Les Puces de Saint Ouen, the legendary Paris Flea Market.
Sundays are for antiquing, and Paris is probably the most wonderful and last place where you can do so, find extraordinary things, and not necessarily break the bank. Join black-belt flea marketer Laetitia, who spent nearly all her Parisian years exploring the different marchés. She'll introduce you to the most intriguing peddlers and help you find your antique white whale.
The Carnival Arts Museum:
We’ll take a whimsical dive through the festive spirit and showmanship of old-time fairs and cabarets. Le Musee des Arts Forains house a jaw-dropping collection of 19th Century and early 20th Century carnival rides and carousels, vintage games, and fairground artifacts. The immersive experience brings history to life with interactive exhibits, where guests can ride merry-go-rounds and explore lavishly decorated theatrical sets.
The Gustave Moreau House Museum
The house and studio of symbolist master Gustave Moreau is one of Paris’s hidden treasures, a dreamer’s sanctuary where his singular vision permeates every detail. This decadent hôtel particulier unfolds as a realm of imagination, where sphinxes, goddesses, the languid Salome, and ancient deities come vividly to life. Palissy’s serpents, chinoiserie, and archeological marvels populate this unparalleled cabinet of curiosities—a labyrinth of beauty and strangeness. Moreau’s enigmatic world even inspired Des Esseintes’ manor in Joris-Karl Huysmans’ À Rebours, making it a living monument to sublime.
Museum of Compared Anatomy:
The Museum of Comparative Anatomy, known as the Galerie d'Anatomie Comparée in French, is part of Paris's National Museum of Natural History. Established in 1898 and housed in the Jardin des Plantes, this grand Art Nouveau museum boasts an extensive collection of skeletal specimens from both the human and animal realms. Through its epically scaled exhibits, it highlights the anatomical similarities and differences between species, offering a fascinating exploration of evolutionary connections across the animal kingdom.
The Curiouser Montmartre:
We’ll lead in a special walking tour in the less touristy part of Montmartre, we’ll go to the Saint Rita Shrine, the unofficial patron of the neighborhood sex-workers, take a quick look at the Montmartre Cemetery and visit the tomb of disco queen Dalida as well as the Samson, a dynasty of executioners. We’ll pay a visit to Marcel Belline’s former divination home, conveniently located near surrealist pope Andre Breton’s apartment.
Literary and Alchemical Saint Michel Walking Tour
We'll spend an afternoon strolling through the Latin Quarter, exploring remnants of alchemical Paris and passing by some of its most iconic literary landmarks. We'll stop at Un Regard Moderne, the best bookstore in Paris, roam in passages, see Le Procope, and the Beat Hotel, where William Burroughs finished writing Naked Lunch and Brion Gysin once lived.
Our trip will be punctuated by delightful apéros—the quintessential French happy hours—and other curated food tastings, ensuring you savor the very best of France’s intangible cultural heritage: Food and wine!
Your Tour Guides
French-born Laetitia Barbier is an independent scholar, as well as a professional tarot reader and teacher. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Art History from La Sorbonne University Paris in 2009. Laetitia has worked with Morbid Anatomy from 2012 to 2024 as a programming director, head librarian, and occasional curator. Her book Tarot and Divination Cards: A Visual Archivewas published in 2021 with a foreword by Rachel Pollack. She is the author of the Tiger Tarot Guide Book, a unique Tarot deck by symbolist artist Lori Field. As a writer and scholar, she has the privilege of collaborating with the iconic French maître-cartier Grimaud, notably on the exquisite re-release of their 1930s Tarot de Marseille and Belline Oracle.
Laetitia has lectured, taught and read cards for various cultural institutions, such as Greenwood Cemetery, Artyard, Fotografiska NY, the College of Psychic Studies in Londonor the New York Public Library. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Allison C. Meier is a Brooklyn-based writer, editor, and researcher. Her book Grave was published this year by Bloomsbury as part of the Object Lessons book series. She is the editor of Fine Books & Collections magazine and has bylines in the New York Times, CityLab, National Geographic, Smithsonian, and many other publications. She is a licensed NYC sightseeing guide who regularly leads tours in cemeteries.
Where We’ll Stay:
In the heart of the 11th Arrondissement, where Parisians live, work, and enjoy authentic fun, far from the typical touristy areas. We’ll be just a five-minute walk from Rue Oberkampf—Laetitia’s former neighborhood—a lively hub of charming cafés, vintage shops, and culinary delights. Steps away, you’ll also find Hors Circuits, a treasure trove for fans of rare films and DVDs. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of the Parmentier metro station and the beautiful Saint Ambroise Church.
This Trip Includes:
Five nights at Hôtel des Métallos
A 7-day Metro Card for seamless city exploration.
Delicious local experiences including wine, cheese, and other culinary delights, beginning with our first evening’s aperitif at Sphaeros and continuing with Belladone Antiques on Sunday at the flea market.
Access to all activities, including museum visits, curator-led tours, and guided walking tours
An exclusive soirée at Avenue Frochot with food and drinks, plus comfortable transportation back to the hotel afterward.
A group dinner at Chez Justine on Monday evening, a beloved neighborhood restaurant located near the hotel.
This Trip Does Not Include:
Airfare: Round-trip plane tickets are not included.
Meals: Participants will cover most of their own breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The neighborhood offers a vibrant selection of dining options, including charming restaurants (with vegan and vegetarian options), supermarkets, and traiteurs (delis) for quick and convenient meals. Paris is celebrated for its culinary diversity, ensuring something to delight every palate and accommodate various dietary needs.
Hotel Breakfast: The hotel offers a sit-down breakfast for an additional fee, but you’re welcome to join us for a traditional café on the terrace—a quintessentially Parisian way to begin the day.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged individually.
Additional Hotel Nights: If you wish to extend your stay beyond the five nights included, you’ll need to make these arrangements directly with the hotel. While Laetitia won’t be able to book it for you, she’ll be happy to assist with personalized recommendations, help you navigate your search, and suggest neighborhoods to explore. (The hotel staff is very friendly and accommodating, making the process easy!)
Official Start of the Trip: Thursday October 2nd - 4pm
Official End of the Trip: Tuesday October 7pm - 2pm
Important Note:
Transportation:
Due to the extensive construction and ongoing renovations in Paris, navigating the city by car has become increasingly challenging. Just ask any Parisian cab driver—they’ll confirm it! To ensure efficiency and a true Parisian experience, we’ll primarily rely on the city’s excellent public transportation system and enjoy many activities on foot.
Please keep this in mind when planning your trip. We’ll be walking a lot. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
The itinerary will remain flexible, allowing you the option to take a break and explore on your own if needed. Whether you want a quiet afternoon or have a specific spot you’d like to visit, we’re always available to provide assistance and recommendations to ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Cancellations:
Cancellations made by April 1, 2025, are eligible for a full refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after June 1, 2025.
The program might be subject to change as we continue to refine the details.
Reviews:
In a literal way Peculiar Paris was a gift to myself and it turned out to contain gifts of many varieties both material and spiritual. Laeti’s organization and generosity of spirit was a gift. Meeting her friends and visiting her special places felt like a gift. Experiencing so much visual astonishment led by the eyeball enchantress herself and developing natural friendships with fellow Peculiarites were gifts. There was no pressure to do anything we didn’t want to. It was an easygoing vibe yet we did so much. Allison deeply enriched the experience with her big beautiful history brain. I would go anywhere with those women at the helm.
Michelle
Laetitia's trip through Paris was a cornucopia of delights! Highlights included the Carnival Arts museum with a dizzyingly wonderful ride on a bicycle-powered carousel, a curated tour of the Playing Card Museum, a soiree in a Haunted Mansion, a deep dive into the Catacombs, a wine and cheese gathering in a psychedelic art cave. . .Laetitia was a knowledgeable, gracious, and generous guide whose knowledge of Paris, art history, tarot, cemeteries enriched an amazing experience. If you are a grown up goth (or not!), this is the trip of a lifetime not to be missed.
Lisa
Explore Paris with Laetitia Barbier? Yes, please!
This October, I had the incredible good fortune to join Laetitia Barbier and Allison C. Meier on a five-day journey into the 'other Paris.' This trip was unlike any other I've experienced, taking us deep into the esoteric and hidden gems of the city. Our group of 13 made the most of our time, exploring parts of Paris that simply are not available on average tours -- like David Spaeros's psychedelic shrine and a lively evening at Maison Frochot. Our day at the Paris flea market was a treasure hunt like no other, and staying in the 11th arrondissement allowed us to experience the authentic Parisian lifestyle. This trip was a perfect blend of history, mystery, and unique experiences, and although we were travelling as a group, everyone had freedom to do as much or as little as they wanted. I enthusiastically recommend this trip to anyone looking to see a different side of Paris! 11/10!!
Renee
