In general, France is a shopper's paradise, though it is rarely inexpensive. Whether searching for such luxury items as perfumes, designer clothes, and crystal, or desiring a fine bottle of wine and some exquisite cheese, France has it all.
Each region of the country has its own specialty, including fine craft products that can often be bought directly from the producer.
There are also the grands magasins in Paris such as Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Samaritaine, Bon Marché and Bazar de líHôtel de Ville, which provide one-stop shopping convenience.
Twice a year, in mid-January and towards the end of July, there are large citywide sales in Paris. During this time you will see many signs in windows reading Soldes or Occasion, meaning "clearance sale" or "opportunity to save money".
Stores as a rule open between 8:30 and 9:30am, and remain open until 7 or 8pm. They often close for 2 hours at lunchtime between 12:30 and 2:30pm. The exception is bakeries (boulangeries), which often open earlier than other shops. Nearly all shops are closed on Sunday (with a few exceptions) and many are closed on Monday as well.
In France, bookstores usually specialize in selling popular and scholarly books and manuals. Writing supplies are found at the stationery store. Your best bet for French newspapers and magazines are the outdoor kiosks and the numerous bureaux de tabac.
In France, the sale of tobacco products is strictly controlled by the state. Cigarettes can be bought at a bureau de tabac, which is identified by an elongated and rounded red diamond-shaped sign with "tabac" written on it. They can also be found in state-approved cafés, bars, and newsstands, indicated by the same red diamond.
Make sure that you check the voltage of all electrical equipment that you intend to purchase. 220 volts AC is standard throughout Europe. You will likely need transformers and adapters for any appliances that you bring from North America.
Credit cards are widely accepted throughout France. Visa (Carte Bleue) is almost universally recognized, while Mastercard is less commonly accepted.
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