As this is my first post and as I have noticed that France has yet to be blogged, I must begin at the beginning. Yes, it is old. Yes, it is popular to hate it now. Yes, your parents went there ( or if not, they dreamed of it, as it is a generational thing ) There are reasons for this. If you, ( and frankly how could you) leave out the history of Europe...Art, Architecture, language, food, music...you are still left with terroir. It is a romantic ideal, yes, but it is a palpable presence whether standing in the Latin Quarter, on the banks in Normandy, or sniffing anonymous t-vines in Bagnol-sur-Cez.

Do pick up some basic French, unlike Montreal, you will need it. Do not let the 'french personality' as described for you by Rush Limbaugh get in the way of a relaxed time or cause trepidation. Gallic pride never supercedes Gallic hospitality. Straight forward...no simpy smiles...no customer is always right....and do not get upset if your check is not delivered to your table. The check will never be delivered to your table. The time is yours no matter what you spend. You must ask for the check as they would NEVER, for the sake of turning over a table, pressure you to finish. If you want specifics...where....when.....why not.... you can email me...I'll tell you all.  Here is a small sample:

1. Jewish or otherwise...NEVER eat at Jo Goldenbergs in the Marais. The food is hideous. It is an overpriced tourist trap filled with poor sucker NJ assistant professors and their clueless charges. Try the light, fresh, falafel stands nearby instead...cheap...tasty.