Taking Dad to Avenue des Champs-Élysées

Christmas market stalls on the Champs-Élysées

Going back to Avenue des Champs-Élysées was high on Dad's list of things to do, so we dedicated our whole day to it today.

We started at the Christmas market stalls at the end of the avenue, selling everything from carousel rides and barbe à papa (candy floss, literally 'papa's beard') to Russian dolls and quality hats (one of which we bought for Dad, a hat, not a beard).

I wish my new headpiece were from Tiffanys!!

We have sussed out the trick to eating out in Paris, you must be seated before 12.30pm, otherwise the cues go on for ages and cafés tend to be completely full. Knowing this, we hunted for somewhere warm but relaxed. We found a great family pizza place with the friendliest waiters. Two pizzas fed the three of us, and Dad had the biggest glass of beer I've ever seen! We didn't realise that 'une grande bière pression' was going to be so grande!! 

We continued shopping after lunch and I finally found a dress for my 21st, yay! Surprisingly there are still deals to be had on the Champs-Élysées, if you avoid the big brands. I was expecting exorbitant prices but managed to tick a few purchases off my list today, including that dress and some French perfume.

We slowly made our way up the avenue, past buskers break dancing to the Arc de Triomphe, where a clown decided to jump into our photos and then ask for money for doing so. Strange culture here in regards to getting money off people, the range of scams is ridiculous...

Arc de Triomphe feat. Dad, Mum, and Clown

Back to the metro and home for hot drinks before doing our grocery shopping at le boucherie (butchers, for fresh steak), le marchand des fruits et légumes (fruit and vege store), le magazine de vin (wine store), et le monoprix (mini supermarket). The streets, as always, started coming alive at about 4pm, and Dad was fascinated watching the atmosphere. I think he loves it here as much as we do.