• 1924 Le Grand Escalier Printemps Haussmann reopened 2023
    Let's Explore

    Printemps Haussmann Reopens Le Grand Escalier

    Opening the daily newspaper, Le Parisien, the photo of a magnificent staircase in Printemps Haussmann met my eyes. After forty years, Printemps Haussmann reopened Le Grand Escalier (the Great Staircase). Get lost in the mirrors that reflect and the balustrades that twist to infinity. A major renovation project is complete. Forty years after Printemps closed off the staircase in the rotunda, the beautifully refurbished 1924 staircase once again reaches to the 7ème ciel (the seventh heaven) the rooftop. The staircase reopened Thursday, June 1, 2023. The only way to reach Le Grand Escalier is through the Caumartin women’s building. Excited to see the renovation, I entered the Caumartin rotunda, crossed the mosaic floor to…

  • Detail of no parking handicap and other signs BHV Quincaillerie Hardware department colleensparis.com
    Let's Explore,  Life in Paris & France

    Humorous wall and door signs at BHV

    Are you looking for that very Made in France gift or souvenir with a touch of humor? Have you thought about a French door sign? Yes or no, visit a quincaillerie (hardware store) or BHV (Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville). The department store, BHV has a hardware department with many humorous wall and door sign choices such as house numbers, door signs, occupation, WhatsApp neighbourhood watch, etc. I have known about these signs for a long time, but it was a question that spurred me to share this information. Paul, a Colleen’s Paris readers, asked recently if BHV, was still selling the blue and red Jour/Nuit (day/night) no parking signs.…

  • Printemps Christmas Store
    Guided Walks,  Let's Explore,  Practical Info,  Shopping/FleaMarkets/Organic

    Inside Look at Paris Department Stores Tips and Visits

    10% off all of the timeReceiving a 10% discount card at three of Paris’  department stores (grands magasins) is easy. Ask at the store about this discount. This discount is immediate and different from the value added tax refund. Only two limitations are attached: 1) the date on the card and 2) the red dot (point rouge). Visit the store’s customer service desk (information or accueil). This discount is separate from your duty free discount that you validate at the airport. Guided Tour Behind the Scenes at Printemps Haussmann Guided Heritage Tours – Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann The cards for Printemps and Galeries Lafayette are valid for one year (January to December). Le Bon…