L'Occitane Beauty Store
As you wander through the streets of Paris you will probably come across plenty of L'Occtaine Stores. The last time I was in Paris, I stopped into one and browsed about-partly because I was staying on Ile St. Louis where there was a store. It was easy to be wandering home in the evenings and stopping into the store. The store has its origins in Provence. They sell beauty creams and lotions along with scents indigenous to the region.
I never payed much attention to them when I was in Paris, as they have stores throughout the US. My philosophy was why bring home something that I can purchase at home. However in France you can purchase sprigs of lavender, which I always thought would be lovely. 
Recently one of my friends invited me to stay with him at the Four Seasons hotel. (no not in Paris). The advantage of staying at a great hotel like the Four Seasons is that the have wonderful toiletries-the bathroom was stocked with l'Occitane beauty supplies. Here was my chance to sample their wares. My skin and nose loved them. My philosophy has subsequently changed about not stopping into a store you have at home. With the colder dry weather soon upon us it is time to stock up on some great hand creams. Whether you are in the US UK or France, visit L'Occitane and treat yourself. You will not be disappointed.
