Arriving in Paris early in the morning meant we had all day to discover the centuries old city. We started at Notre Dame, the cathedrals are older than our country. It was an amazing experience to be in a city with so much rich history and architectural treasures. Forget the guide book, every building would be a destination place if listed. It seemed like every block had a 300 to 500 year old church sitting on it, stain glass like no where else.

The food; what can you say about French Food except exceptional? Flavors and spices and sauces and creams almost more than my taste buds could handle. Not to mention the pastries, which always left us wanting more! The croissants and crepes were beyond description. Dinner takes hours, not wolfed down to hurry off to another event. Dinner is the event Leisurely eating, a concept unheard of in our hurried culture.

Everything French is done better than anywhere else and of course the art falls into that category. Where else in the world can you see the masters in such resplendence? The Louvre was an overwhelming experience. The history, the cost to the artist themselves, the collections that ranged from 800 BC on through the glories of Rome and Greece to the Renaissance Masters and finishing up with the Impressionists. If you didn’t get enough of the impressionist at the Louvre there are other museums dedicated strictly to that art period, namely the Museum O’Dorsey. But don’t think of going to Paris without visiting Versailles, The Rodin Gardens and my favorite; the catacombs.

All things French; products and souvenirs to bring home and give your home a little of the old world flavor. Paris is a must see for artist, culinary lovers, the fashion minded and historians; there is definitely something for every taste, literally. And the Parisians themselves where the most helpful, friendly people I have encountered.

Quelobjet (http://www.QUELOBJET.COM/) is delighted to bring you French products gifts whose makers have taken traditional items-Basque linens; ceramic chickens; French tea towels; flower vases and have given them contemporary looks. Ryan Coisson is a freelance writer.