Shopping in Paris..... Tip of the Week # 1

Bonjour Mes Amis! And welcome to my first installment of Tips for shopping in Paris!
I am constantly asked questions about my shopping experiences in Europe and have been asked to give lectures on the vast amount of information you need to have a successful shopping visit.

But, the problem has always been, where to find a location, and when to find the time???

So, I've decided to make it easy on all of us and offer my TIPS here on my blog once a week!

.Whether you are already a antique dealer here ready to make that giant leap across the pond. Or a vacationer looking to buy a souvenir that will bring back memories and serve as a decorative piece in your home.......this course is for you!!!!

So, please join me each week as I randomly select a TIP for you as I think of it...LOL!

My # 1 TIP......MANNERS!!!

 

 

If you don't already know, let me assure you that the French are big on manners! No matter if its a big store, or a sidewalk flea market....it is considered rude to not speak properly!

 

As an antique dealer who sells monthly at the Scott Antique Market, I am constantly amazed at the lack of courtesy shown buy the general public. People often shout out to me "how much is this?" without even thinking of a polite hello first.

 

So, unless you want to end up paying top Euro for that treasure, remember your manners!

 

Greet the dealer first! Say Hello or better yet "Bonjour Madame/ Monsieur" and always with a smile!

Then with a point to the object, or with it in your hand, ask how much it is. A simple "Combien, s'il vous plait" will get the point across. And go along way in getting a better price!

You don't need to be fluent in the language, but showing respect by trying to speak their language is always appreciated. We all like doing business with a friend, so treat them like one and enjoy the rewards!

 

 

A la semaine prochaine...... Lee