On Sat, 12 Mar 2005 14:49:14 -0800, Tamzen Cannoy
> wrote:

>In article >,
> Ariane Jenkins > wrote:
>
>> Several years ago when I solicited suggestions for what to bring back from
>> England, people here had a lot of interesting ideas, so I thought I'd give it
>> another go. In about a month and a half, we'll be heading to France for 3
>> weeks and hitting Paris, Normandy (briefly), the Loire Valley region, the
>> Dordogne (also very briefly) and Provence.
>>
>> I already had things in mind like olive oil and some wine, which should be all
>> right through Customs. Rules are strict and say no fruits/vegetables and it
>> sounds like meat in any form might also be against the rules, according to
>> U.S. Custom's website. So foie gras is probably out. Some cheeses are
>> permitted, but chances are we'll try and eat our fill there rather than toting
>> any home.
>
Samantha and I did that last April Ariane. Barged on the Loire Valley
canals and did some Paris too. As a general observation, there are
not many bargain opportunities in Europe. Their 'Foodie' toy shops
are behind ours, although I did spot a nice carving knife/fork set.
Their Markets and grocery shops are worth a tour though.

If you're going for Aliments and Spirits, I'd go to the Brandy section
for Spirits, and of course there are some awfully nice Estates in the
Loire. I'd do my shopping in Paris so that as not to have to schlepp
the stuff all over the place.

Basically, we didn't bother with Aliments and Spirits as we can do as
well or better and mostly cheaper here in Calgary. Coffee is an
exception. The French do this very well.

The Louvre has some great quality Posters by the Renaissance and
Impressionist guys, that make a great addition to most homes after you
have then framed. In any event their Gift Shop is well worth a visit
while you are at the Louvre. The first Sunday of every month is free
admission - don't go unless you want to queue up for hours.

If you want to visit 'Shrines' put the Poilanne Bakery on your route.
See if you can get some starter [PS Freeze it before coming back].

If you want more take it to e-mail, Ariane

Harry