Suitcases Full, We Head Across The Atlantic Again

The Import/Export Game

In preparation for our next trip to Paris, I make a list of all the things I need to buy to take back with me. I also do this when we’re ready to leave Paris for LA.

Because we split the year fairly evenly between two places, I feel that we don’t really import and export, we simply import to both countries. It’s a small import/import operation, with everything in the suitcases for either personal use or gifts. But, the list is long, as usual.

It’s fascinating when I hear others describe what they “import” from their home countries. Much of it is food product that can’t be obtained in France.

I guess the main reasons to import things are:
Lack of availability
Cost
Fear of the unknown, fear of not having your “thing”

Here’s my normal list of things that we take to France:
Shampoo, conditioner, zip lock baggies, Advil, Excedrin, Robitussin DM, contact lens solution, Afrin, English language books, the latest electronics, table linens, towels, kitchen accessories, tennis balls (this is Terry’s idea).

Here’s my list that we regularly bring back from France:
Tea, salt (all types), herbs and spices, French books, tea towels, candles, scarves, beauty products, chocolates.

And, here’s some of the things that are favorites of my friends (not exhaustive):
Brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, chocolate chips, tortillas and corn bread mix. Many others bring the zip lock bags, shampoo, lotion.

Terry drinks light beer and it is impossible to find in Paris.

We made a massive search one day and came up empty-handed. We found an American (The Real McCoy) store that sold a small Coors light (maybe 6 oz) for Euro 3.50, so a six pack of this would be Euro 21 and at today’s exchange rate, the 6 pack of small, miserable beer would be around $32.50!

Since you can’t even bring a bottle of water on the plane these days he’ll just have to settle for a “seize”.

What do you import?