Food: My research into baguettes continued on this trip. I thought Tout Autour du Pain and Eric Kayser had superior traditional baguettes. A jambon/fromage sandwich from Kayser was also memorable.
The fromagerie Jouannault was a cheese-stravaganza! Discovered the delicious Sainte-Maure de Touraine (goat cheese enrobed with ash). Swooned over the Brie de Meaux and the Fourme d’Ambert. Appreciated the friendly and knowledgeable woman behind the counter who was happy to answer my many questions.
Gifts for friends:
Several contributors to the forum have mentioned BHV as a favorite department store – I now see why! I found fun gifts for the grandchildren (stickers and art supplies) and great notecards/stationery for other friends. When I travel, I bring home gifts for my dog and his friends, so “la Niche,” the BHV’s separate pet food and accessories store, was totally worth the stop. The “Edgard et Cooper” dog treats I bought there have been enthusiastically received by my pup and his buddies.
Pharmacie Forum des Halles: This is where I had my pre-departure Covid test, and it was enjoyable to wander through the very large store while I waited for the results. I picked up small sizes of hand cream, trial sizes of cosmetics, small soaps and other fun stuff to give to friends. Very reasonable prices for all. (Covid test was 20 euro, btw.)
All in all a wonderful trip!