hikrchick

My DH and I are hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trail in 2 weeks. This is my 50th birthday present to myself and DH is coming along for comic relief and to carry the water. LOL. We are going with a small group because, while logistically we could do it ourselves -- and we are very experienced planners-of-trips (thanks to Fodors!) -- I don't think I would be comfortable carrying a full pack and walking that much at that altitude. And so I've done absolutely zero planning -- I haven't bought a guidebook or a map or anything. Surprisingly it is very freeing just to show up ...

However, I am wondering if anyone has been to the towns along the TMB -- Chamonix, Courmayeur, etc -- and could advise me whether we will need something to wear other than hiking clothing for restaurants etc. We will have 2 afternoons/evenings free in Chamonix at the beginning and end of the trip and might want to go somewhere to celebrate.

Also -- we will be hoping to buy Hanukkah presents for our 4 pre-teen nieces and nephews. Can anyone suggest a shop or an item that might be a hit with kids 13, 11 and 10?

thanks for any help!