Last Minutes Questions.....Paris
 

We're leaving for Paris Memorial Day weekend. We know to be prepared for any type of weather, and would like opinions on the best outerwear to bring in addition to the necessary raincoat. Is it normally cool enough in the evening to weat a nice, black leather jacket......and is it "appropriate" ? I know leather jackets are worn all year round in some cities, but in others, once Spring arrives, leather coats are stored away. If anyone has just returned and knows the current weather, or anyone who has experienced Paris in the Spring and knows what the locals wear, please post. <BR> <BR>Also, what time does it get dark in Paris in early June? I have heard it stays light until 10 PM, and all tourist attractions are open very late. Is this true? My guide books don't address this topic. Thanks in advance...... <BR>

I see a fair amount of black leather in Paris except in the hottest weather-people here know I advocate black year round there-as it is appropriate almost anywhere and very "big city". My only concern with your leather is that it is going to be too hot and heavy-but that also depends on you-how warm-blooded you are, etc. Parisian women are big on cardigans-all cuts, all styles. I am going to Paris around the same time-June 6th and I just got a really nice stretch jersey sweater jacket-it doesn't wrinkle and it is warm without being hot. The main thing is to take some layers. <BR> <BR>In terms of the light, 10PM is stretching it I think-I spend summers in Paris and mostly the light fades around 8:30-9 I think-but maybe others out there know better?

I see a fair amount of black leather in Paris except in the hottest weather-people here know I advocate black year round there-as it is appropriate almost anywhere and very "big city". My only concern with your leather is that it is going to be too hot and heavy-but that also depends on you-how warm-blooded you are, etc. Parisian women are big on cardigans-all cuts, all styles. I am going to Paris around the same time-June 6th and I just got a really nice stretch jersey sweater jacket-it doesn't wrinkle and it is warm without being hot. The main thing is to take some layers. <BR> <BR>In terms of the light, 10PM is stretching it I think-I spend summers in Paris and mostly the light fades around 8:30-9 I think-but maybe others out there know better?

<BR>I think jeanne's advice is excellent. <BR>Leather jacket is likely to be much too warm and heavy, at least one hopes. I have to admit that I was in Paris once over a Mem. Day weekend and the temperature never got above the 50s and it rained every day. <BR>I layered a couple of sweaters under my <BR>very lightweight raincoat and I managed quite well, despite the miserable weather. <BR>Before you go you can check these weather sites for forecasts. You'll notice they don't all have exactly the same forecast, but it will give you an idea at least: <BR> <BR>weather web sites <BR> <BR>www.worldclimate.com/ <BR> <BR>www.nytimes.com/ <BR> <BR>www.weather.com/weather/cities/ <BR> <BR>www.cnn.com/WEATHER/ <BR> <BR>http://www.weatherpost.com Washington Post. Includes historical weather data <BR>

<BR>I think jeanne's advice is excellent. <BR>Leather jacket is likely to be much too warm and heavy, at least one hopes. I have to admit that I was in Paris once over a Mem. Day weekend and the temperature never got above the 50s and it rained every day. <BR>I layered a couple of sweaters under my <BR>very lightweight raincoat and I managed quite well, despite the miserable weather. <BR>Before you go you can check these weather sites for forecasts. You'll notice they don't all have exactly the same forecast, but it will give you an idea at least: <BR> <BR>weather web sites <BR> <BR>www.worldclimate.com/ <BR> <BR>www.nytimes.com/ <BR> <BR>www.weather.com/weather/cities/ <BR> <BR>www.cnn.com/WEATHER/ <BR> <BR>http://www.weatherpost.com Washington Post. Includes historical weather data <BR>

Later on in the summer (? mid-July/Aug) it stays light until around 10PM.

Right now it's still cold (need a sweater or light jacket). By Memorial Day, who knows. I certainly hope for real spring weather by then. Yes, it stays light until around 10 pm in the summer; right now it is light until around 9 pm. Have a great trip.

DEFINITELY check the weather websites just before you leave! During late March, a few travellers returned from Paris and were talking about temps in the high 50's. And when I was there in mid April, it was running around 48 degrees for the high - I was glad I am my raincoat w/zip out lining. (I live in Texas & that qualifies as 'chilly' by Dallas standards). <BR>So, Patti, it also depends on where YOU live and what your comfort level range is. <BR>

Definitely check weather sites right before you leave and you still might be wrong. Have been in Paris twice in May with HOT weather, ie, cotton t-shirt type temperatures and beautiful sunshine. I don't think I've ever been on a trip when SOMEone didn't tell me I should have seen the weather LAST week, when it was: sunnier, colder, rainier, windier, better, worse etc. And HOW many times have we gotten on the plane just as the weather was improving?

I returned from Paris on 14/5 and can tell you that it is a very fashionable city. A cardigan slung over your shoulder all day will do you very well. I took a fitted black Marmot pullover fleece with a short front zipper and wore it almost everywhere and it looked great. Lots of jersey, longer skirts and a nice t-shirt - a multitude of black and white will take you anywhere. I bought a nice Anne Klein black knee length rain coat in microfibre that rolled up into my backpack (black leather) and it was perfect.Shoes will be your biggest concern! Have fun - it is a great city. don't hesitate to email with any questions. <BR>