Follow the Bewitching Scents

The next time you journey to Paris you’ll find that for the French, selecting and applying perfume is an art in itself.

  And since the “city of love” is believed to be behind its creation, you’ll agree there’s no better place to find the finest and most exquisite fragrances.

So take your senses on a joyful journey.  Navigate the world of perfume and discover the secrets behind its mesmerizing allure.  And who knows.  You might learn a few things along the way. 

If intrigued with its history, by all means don’t miss the chance to browse through the galleries of the Fragonard Museums.  The largest one is located in the Opera District.  It’s housed inside a magnificent mansion, built during the days of Napoleon III.  Its displays of antique flasks and artifacts are truly fascinating.  The second venue is situated in the Theater des Capucines.  It’s packed with interesting exhibits relating thousands of years of fragrance making.  What began in the 1800s with just roses and lavender is today an incredible industry.  As you’ll see, the most complex of perfumes boast between sixty and one hundred ingredients, all perfectly combined to create enchanting aromas.

So treat yourself to a day of sheer delight.  Follow the smells that captivate people throughout the globe.  Tour the grandiose salons and “perfume houses.”

Head out to Caron, near the Champs Elysees, where the splendor of the 19th century lives on.  Relax amidst a posh ambience and sample a few of the creations.  Don’t miss the “limited editions,” designed for special occasions.

Continue on to L’Artisan Parfumeur, east of Loume.  At this contemporary laboratory-like salon, you’ll witness how the pleasurable liquids are produced.  Indulge with a purchase of “magi,” a beautifully designed velvet pouch filled with frankincense, myrrh and speckles of gold.

If you’re close to the Tuilleries Gardens, your nose will lead you to a “Perfume Boutique.”  It’s here where experts instruct visitors in the proper ways of applying a scent.

As you can imagine, these are but a few examples of not to be missed venues.  The capital of France is dotted with well-known perfumeries, boasting a world-class reputation.

So the next time you’re in Paris, allow yourself one of the truly delightful pleasures.