|
Many people come to France specifically to shop (you know who you are), but this list is more for travelers who, in the midst of exploring this most special country, want to bring home a gift or two for those less fortunate. These gift givers often need a bit of direction, so here are ten perfect gifts that whisper "France."
Scarves in Paris
The first thing you notice about Parisian women is that they're very stylish. The second thing you notice is that they all wear scarves. So buy a few for yourself or your significant other. And while you're at it, buy them for all your female friends and family. They come in all price ranges — from the priciest at Hermès to the best bargains at street vendors. And they're easy to pack. While searching for the perfect scarves, you may want to pick up a few neckties for the men on your list, assuming your male acquaintances still wear them. Once again, a wide range of prices and styles is available, from vibrant silk Hermès ties to whimsical Tour Eiffel–patterned ties available at street vendors near — where else? — the Tour Eiffel.
Stationery in Paris
Although the art of the snail-mail letter is fading fast, you still can find exquisite papers and stationery sets in Paris's fine shops, including the big department stores such as Au Printemps, Au Bon Marché, and Galeries Lafayette. You'll find the most original selections at boutiques on the Left Bank and the least expensive selection in the student area of St-Germain-des-Prés.
Quimper pottery in Brittany
Quimper pottery has been a famous collectible for antiques buffs for many years. You can buy contemporary examples of the hand-painted craft at several shops in the town of Quimper, including the premier maker, H.B. Henriot, which also offers factory tours.
Fishermen's sweaters in Brittany
After a day or two on the blustery coast of Brittany, you may be looking to buy one of those bulky fishermen's sweaters. The most common types have blue-and-white or red-and-white horizontal stripes. The best brands are St. James and Tricommer. These rugged sweaters will last a lifetime.
Santons in Provence
Made of clay or wood, santons often are hand-painted and highly individualistic renderings of ordinary townspeople and their professions and of saints and nativity cast members. These highly popular collectible figurines are available throughout Provence and the Riviera.
Fabrics in Provence
Nothing says "Provence" like those brightly colored cotton fabrics sold all across the south of France. You'll see the Soulëiado brand and store name in most towns in Provence and the Riviera. Though the style is imitated heavily, the designs were originated in the 18th and 19th centuries. They make great tablecloths and napkins, as well as dresses and purses. You can find them at discount prices at markets in Provence and at department stores in Paris.
Perfume in Grasse
The town of Grasse on the Riviera is the perfume-making capital of France. After touring one of the three factories open to tourists — Molinard, Galimard, and Fragonard — you can sign up for a class to make your own perfume or buy some of the specially packaged wares. In Paris, head to rue de Rivoli across from the Louvre for the best perfume shops, including those offering discounts. You can find all the top names here, in addition to some boutique French perfume not easily found in the United States.
Lingerie on the Riviera
It's no surprise that the Riviera offers the best lingerie shops anywhere. You can buy a wide range of top-of-the-line teddies, nightgowns, and underwear for relatively good prices. Swimsuits (maillot de bain) also are fun to shop for here, and you'll find a variety of daring styles. Because the French practically invented sex appeal and spare no expense to achieve it, expect to splurge.
Handmade glass objects in Biot
The tiny hilltop village of Biot, located between Cannes and Nice on the Riviera, is France's capital of glass. You can watch about a dozen top artisans blowing and sculpting exquisite glass objects in its many studios and galleries. Among the names to look for are Novaro, Saba, and Pierini. Most of Biot's galleries will pack and ship their wares internationally.
Cider and calvados in Normandy
The apple orchards throughout Normandy's rolling green landscape are known for producing the exceptional fruits Normans use for a variety of beverages. They traditionally drink with their meals a light, refreshingly fizzy cider instead of wine. Bringing a bottle of this cider home will immediately transport you back to the region's half-timbered houses. And after a meal, Normans enjoy Calvados, a fiery brandy served with or in coffee. It takes 12 to 15 years to bring this famous liqueur to term.
| 
