What's a must to buy in Paris?
Mar 29th, 2008, 05:00 AM
#43
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If things to buy are about memories, here are some thoughts. On a recent trip friend made a point to take digital photos that they would use at home to make their own souveniers. So, they have a great collection of photo mugs and T shirts that they did themselves. Another idea that sort of ties in with your question is to take photos of your favorite meals. While home make an event of re-creating the meal and plating it the same way. Ina Garten's Barefoot in Paris cookbook covers al lot of common recipes. I find that most food items can be found at home on-line, so I make a list and as finances allow, I order things. (and dare I say I find a lot in the food section at my local Marshall's).
It ry to bring macaroons home every time - they never survive the flight.....I have no will power...
It ry to bring macaroons home every time - they never survive the flight.....I have no will power...
Mar 30th, 2008, 02:16 PM
#44
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Are items made up olive wood i.e., cooking utensils, tiny chopping boards, etc, any cheaper there?
After I used all the fleur de sal I kept the little cork-covered container to re-use. Glad to know it was cheaper in Provence than in my Alaska grocery store!
What about placemats made of toile? Any cheaper--since I know they get sold in the states.
A souvenir not mentioned: I bought an 8/12 poster ad for Absinthe with a pretty girl and an odd color green from one of those stalls along the Seine and framed it for my guestroom.
After I used all the fleur de sal I kept the little cork-covered container to re-use. Glad to know it was cheaper in Provence than in my Alaska grocery store!
What about placemats made of toile? Any cheaper--since I know they get sold in the states.
A souvenir not mentioned: I bought an 8/12 poster ad for Absinthe with a pretty girl and an odd color green from one of those stalls along the Seine and framed it for my guestroom.
Mar 30th, 2008, 06:21 PM
#47
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I purchased Roche Posay sunscreen in several of the village pharmacies too and I'm so glad I did! Cheaper and saved money on shipping that I had been paying.
I didn't think the olivewood utensils were all that much cheaper in France but they do make wonderful trip reminders.
What is the "fleur de sal"?
I didn't think the olivewood utensils were all that much cheaper in France but they do make wonderful trip reminders.
What is the "fleur de sal"?
Mar 30th, 2008, 06:30 PM
#48
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I just read off2cu's recommendation of ellenet!!! I also love it, but was told it could get confiscated by customs here (something about the ingredients not being allowed here.) It could be some urban myth. You might want to check though so you don't waste your money smuggling it in...
Mar 31st, 2008, 03:53 AM
#50
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When I travel, I like to buy something lasting to remind me of the trip, i.e., not food items. For example, santons from the south of France; a silver bracelet from Paris; a fan from Spain; ceramics from Tuscany; glass jewelry & a handmade mask from Venice.
Mar 31st, 2008, 08:39 AM
#52
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Chocolates! In the past I have bought Debauve & Gallais chocolates at their historis shop at 30 Rue Des Saints-Peres but they were expensive in the past and can't imagine what they are now. They used to make Chocolates for Napoleon. Since my Dad prefers Sees I stopped buying them for him!
There is also a chocolate shop on Rue Cler where they make chocolates that I like (not Leonidas) but can't remember the name.
There is also a chocolate shop on Rue Cler where they make chocolates that I like (not Leonidas) but can't remember the name.
Mar 31st, 2008, 09:51 AM
#53
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As for Loreal elNett (I misspelled it the first time)...I bought 2 cans back with me to the US last summer (2007) with no problems. Due to the 311 liquid rule, I had to check my bag.
Wondering is correct that it is not sold in the US due to the chemical used to create the aerosol. I didn't know that until after I returned. But, I'd still pack it in my suitcase and not worry about it.
GiuliaPiranio - the hairspray was suggested to me by a hair and makeup artist from NYC. The hairspray is great - great hold but not sticky. I love it. Plus, it is a fun and different thing to buy.
Wondering is correct that it is not sold in the US due to the chemical used to create the aerosol. I didn't know that until after I returned. But, I'd still pack it in my suitcase and not worry about it.
GiuliaPiranio - the hairspray was suggested to me by a hair and makeup artist from NYC. The hairspray is great - great hold but not sticky. I love it. Plus, it is a fun and different thing to buy.
Mar 31st, 2008, 11:00 AM
#54
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My absolute favourite souvenirs are my pashminas. Well, not the *real* ones..the "pashminettes"--the more affordable ones. 
I get compliments every single time I wear them and they were a favourite for gifts for a couple of my girlfriends.
I get compliments every single time I wear them and they were a favourite for gifts for a couple of my girlfriends.
Mar 31st, 2008, 12:27 PM
#56
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I always get a beautiful scarf and they are never cheap for sure, but at the same time, I have also gotten some fun and attractive ones at the department stores and at some street markets. I got a really cool piece at an arts and crafts market...an old metro ticket under plexiglass and framed..very cute. I also get towels and such..I have a couple of table clothes ...I like things that last.
Mar 31st, 2008, 02:00 PM
#59
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Thanks everyone, this has been such a fun thread! I'm going to add all this to my book! I'm guessing since hubby relegates me to 1 carryon policy, I'll have to bring one of those fold up suitcases for all of my spoils!
