Markets of Paris
I would like to give Markets of Paris the review it deserves. I would spend a week in the City of Light, visiting the markets open on each day. Then I would tell you if Dixon and Ruthanne Long's 500-word descriptions do justice to each market's ambience. I pitched this idea to OWF's publisher, but he wouldn't approve the budget.
But the next time I go to Paris, I'll use this pocket-sized book to help plan our trip. The guidebook promises to send its readers to places that Melissa and I like: Those outside of most tourist books and inside the hearts of locals. The book covers markets of all types, from food markets to the Marché aux Timbres et aux Cartes Téléphoniques—stamps and phone cards. It also features information about French culture, the authors' favorite brasseries and bistros, and other tourist information.
As I considered the book for review, I found myself flipping it open at random times of the day to discover a new market. There's one for used and antiquarian books, a couple of flea markets, and a legion for cheese and vegetables. Armchair travelers will enjoy the little voyages possible in the straightforward prose, but actual visitors may be frustrated that there's no "week at a glance" view. If I were only going to be in Paris on a Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, I'd have to flip through the entire book to learn which markets are open. But that's a minor complaint.
Pack this guide in your luggage next time you're en route to Paris. I know I will.
This book was sent to me for review.
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