Three Paris Food Shopping Spots
It’s no secret that Paris is a gourmet food paradise. Just stroll though any food market or dine at any restaurant, bistro or brasserie with a good reputation and you’ll understand what I mean.
The best food in Paris is creative, fresh, beautiful and of course tasty. And though eating your way through the city can be both fun and delicious, there is no reason you shouldn’t be able to take some of that fine French food home with you.
A visit to any shop that specializes in gourmet food will have you drooling in the aisles. Filling your luggage with fabulous gourmet treats for souvenirs, gifts or to keep tucked away in your cupboard to enjoy as a special treat when you want to reminisce about your time in Paris are all perfect reasons to indulge.
Paris has no shortage of tiny gourmet food boutiques, tucked into little nooks and crannies in every neighborhood, especially ones that revolve around one item – honey, olive oil, chocolate etc..
But if you’re looking for a great selection and wide variety of quality products with lovely packaging, these popular, easily found shops, often known as épicerie (eh-PEACE-ree), which means grocery, have a wonderful selection. You can’t go wrong with any of them.
1. Le Grand Épicerie. Located in the famous Le Bon Marché department store, in the 7th arrondissement, this spot has to be the mother of all grocery stores. Here you’ll find an entire floor dedicated to all sorts of brands carrying everything from jams and chutneys to tinned fish, jarred truffles and mustards. The selection is endless and it shouldn’t be missed.
2. Fouchon. This stylish and upscale Paris épicerie can easily be spotted by its hot pink, black and white branding on the Place du Madeleine. Fine chocolates, fruit jellies, candied fruit, pasta, biscuits, tea, delicious canned goods, savory terrines and rillettes are all on offer. Prettily packaged wine and champagne are available too. You can also stop next door for fresh foods like bread, pastries, cheese and pâte.
3. Hédiard. Known for their bold signature black and red packaging, this brand has locations in over 30 countries, but has been a Paris staple since 1854. Their products are sold at other shops around the city, but the lovely two-story boutique on the Place du Madeleine is worth a visit. You’ll be greeted with a stunning array of fresh fruits and veggies, along with gourmet foods to-go. The packaged goodies include a selection teas and coffees, sweet confections, gelées, chocolates, jams and jelly, foie gras, spices and even wine!
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How Paris Bound Travelers can use Autolib’
Those who have traveled to Paris before know that the city has some very solid transportation options. The Paris Metropolitan, RER, buses, Bat-o-bus, Vogué0 ferry service and of course Paris’s green bike sharing program – called Velib‘.
But, Paris keeps thinking outside the box and has recently introduced a new, unique green transportation option – an electric car-sharing program called Autolib’. It’s very similar to Velib’ in that you can take advantage of short-term car rental and the car can be returned to any participating station.
Photo Credit : Francisco Gonzalez
Though I’m a huge fan of what Paris is doing, and I think it’s a great idea worth promoting, I’m certainly not here to advocate for those traveling to Paris to run right out, sign up for the Autolib’ program and start racing around the city streets in a car!
There is no need for Paris travelers to have a car in the city center.
However, I also like to think outside the box, and when I heard about Autolib’, I thought it could be useful to Paris bound travelers in a few instances. According to Autolib’, the cars can’t be taken outside the Ile-de-France region, but the battery life will allow you to travel 250km in a city and 150km on the highway.
Currently, there are 250 Autolib’ stations and cars can be picked up and dropped of at different stations.
Keeping that in mind, with one of the electric Bluecars, you could visit these popular spots just outside of Paris:
- Fontainebleau
- Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte
- Chateau Vincennes
- Saint-Germain-en-Laye
- Chateau Versailles
- Attend concerts or events at La Stade de France
And for the kids:
And if the additional proposed Autolib’ stations are approved, there may be opportunities to visit these attractions:
- Chateau Marmaison
- Parc de Sceaux
- Jardin d’Acclimation in Neuilly-Sur-Seine
If you are thinking about using the Paris Autolib’ program, keep the following facts in mind:
- Drivers must be over 18 and are required to have a French or International Driver’s License to operate the vehicles.
- A paid subscription is required. A 7 day subscription is €15; 24 hours is €10.
- Rental rates run between 5-8 Euro per half-hour for the time you have the car.
It may not be the most cost-effective method of transport (though not having to pay high gas prices does offset the cost), but if you like the freedom of getting out of Paris to explore for a few hours, while doing your part for the environment, it might be a worthwhile option compared to the traditional car rental.
For more information and details about the program, visit the very extensive and helpful Autolib’ website.
What do you think? Would you consider using Autolib’ to visit any of the spots I’ve listed above?
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French Food : Eating at a French Brasserie
When I’m not eating French food in France, I’m scoping out my next great French foodie adventure when I travel or when I’m home. Imagine how over the moon I was to hear that Brasserie 292, a new classic French brasserie, with a modern flair, would be opening within walking distance of my home. Quelle Surprise.
I have since visited several times in an attempt to work my way through the traditional menu, with a few of their own creative dishes thrown in. I’m also in talks with the owners to rent cot space in the kitchen, because apparently, walking distance doesn’t seem to be close enough.
These visits have reminded me of why I not only love classic French cuisine, but why I like eating in the relaxed, yet bustling setting of a French brasserie. I thought it would be a perfect time for me to tell you a bit more about what you can expect from that experience in France.
What is a French Brasserie?
The word brasserie (pronounced brass-ree) originated from the word ‘brewery’ and were initially found in the Alsace region of France. These days, it describes a type of French restaurant that serves classic French dishes in a friendly, but upscale setting. They are generally larger than a bistro, have a full bar, a fixed menu (which is professionally printed as opposed to written on a chalkboard), are open daily with longer hours, and have professional wait staff.
In an upscale French restaurant, you’d be expected to order a full meal – but in a brasserie, that’s so not the case, which is why I tend to love and prefer them. Take a seat at the bar for a glass of champagne and a few oysters and share a cheese plate, come for a simple plat-du-jour, meet friends for brunch or splurge on a full-blown dinner – it’s all de rigueur at the French Brasserie.
French Brasserie Decor
For me, much of the charm of the classic French brasserie can be attributed to the decor. Imagine large leather banquettes (classic red is my absolute fave), antique brass finishings, globe lighting, dark wood, classic white linens, simple tableware, and larger than life mirrors reflecting diners enjoying the convivial atmosphere. The most stylish represent Art Nouveau or Belle Époque periods. Even the design, arrangement and detailing of the menus seem to play a large part in creating the overall ambiance.
French Brasserie Classics
Though each chef might take creative license to add a few different dishes to their menu, and each region of France would most certainly include their regional specialties, you can always expect to find several traditional dishes on the menu. Most will have some sort of raw bar offering oysters, clams and mussels, served simply on a bed of ice with lemon wedges.
Generally, you’ll also find a selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, omelettes, pastas, and simply prepared chicken, steak and fish dishes. Something for everyone, which is yet another benefit of dining at one.
Classic dishes like Steak Frites and Moules Frites, with aioli for french-fry-dipping, Croque Monsier, Salad Niçoise, Cassoulet, Coq au Vin, Cod Brandade, Sole Meunière are standard options. You’ll also find a Plat-du-Jour, which would be a daily chef’s special that would be different for every day of the week.
Since French brasseries will also have a bar, you can expect to find a nice selection of beer, wine by-the-glass and bottle, champagne and a wide range of cocktails ranging from the perfect brunch Bloody Mary, to an aperitif like a Kir Royale.
For dessert, French classics like Tarte Tatin, Profiteroles, Crème Brulée, Baba au Rhum, Chocolate Mousse and sorbet will grace most menus. You can bet some sort of tart, whether it be lemon, berry, plum or almond may make an appearance.
Some Paris Brasseries
There are great examples of brasseries all over France, but Paris seems to be littered with them. Unfortunately, many of the great, once independently-owned brasseries in Paris have now been acquired by the Flo brasserie chain. These include Brasserie Flo, Julien, La Coupole, Bofinger and others. Some have kept up and some, well, not so much. Brasserie Balzar would be one to visit in this group.
If you want to dine on French food with a view, try the Brasserie I’le Saint-Louis, which offers a lovely view from the terrace. It’s a favorite to date.
If you have a hankering for a late night snack, visit Au Pied de Cochon, located in the now (sadly) defunct Les Halles market area. They are open 24 hours, 7 days a week!
If you want to enjoy French classic dishes while gazing at over-the-top Belle Époque decor - it has to be Le Train Blue.
Looking to recreate your own moment from Something’s Gotta Give, visit the famed Le Grand Colbert.
Thomieux is a more sophisticated and creative Brasserie in the 7th (near the Eiffel Tower). It’s run by talented ex-Hotel Crillon chef, Jean-Françoise Piège.
A popular budget option, Chartier appeals to the working-class in the 9th neighborhood and is one of the oldest Paris restaurants.
Eating at a classic French Brasserie can be a fun and delicious experience, that can be enjoyed on any budget. It is sure to be a feast for both the eyes and for the stomach, no matter where you happen to indulge.
Do you have a favorite French Brasserie or a classic French food dish that you love? If so, share in the comments.
Are you hungry for Paris? Savor the French foods you’re craving with a custom foodie adventure or gourmet market tour in Paris.
Paris Travel Inspiration for Under $10 Bucks!
I’ve spent the last few years here trying to give you tips, advice and reasons for going to Paris, one of my favorite cities. This is of course assuming that you, as a reader, actually have a huge desire to go to Paris. Perhaps you’re in the midst of planning a trip or dreaming of the day when you can finally get there.
But what about those of you who aren’t quite sure if they ever want to travel to Paris? (Yes, I know you exist!)
Well, for those people, I have some great news! For those of you on the fence, I guarantee to have something that will push you over the edge. More of a hard shove, really.
And it will only cost you less than $10 bones.
Can’t wait to find out what it is it?
I won’t keep you in suspense. It’s Woody Allen’s new film, Midnight in Paris.
You don’t even have to get more than 10 minutes into the film to realize why. In fact, the opening sequence, which is set to lovely music, is a beautiful photo montage of the most glorious scenes in the City of Light. No dialogue, just a photo slideshow, each one more evocative than the next. I could have left after the first 10 minutes and felt I’d gotten my money’s worth without even seeing the movie.
The rest of the movie doesn’t suck either. The movie itself is fun, charming, heartfelt and enjoyable. The plot really resonated with me. But, in terms of Paris, here are just a few things you’ll get a glimpse of:
- Many Paris bridges, including Pont Neuf and Pont Alexander III
- Outdoor cafe and dining scenes
- Monet’s Garden at Giverny
- Rodin Museum
- Too many shots of the Eiffel Tower to count
- Champs Elysees and Arc du Triomphe, both day and evening shots
- France’s First-Lady, Carla Bruni, as a guest star
- Pont Royal
Take a peek at the trailer:
And if after you see the movie, you still aren’t motivated to jump on the next plane to Paris, well, then I give up. There is officially no hope for you wanting to travel to Paris!
Planning a trip to Paris? Click here to see how I can help!
Paris Supper Clubs
photo credit : flickr
Supper clubs have been around for years, and Paris now has their fare share. These part dinner clubs-part social clubs are a great way for foodies to experience a great meal while connecting with locals and other traverers. Some are well-advertised, while others are underground and remain downright secretive.
Pricey gourmet clubs place their focus a bit more on the gastronomy of Paris, but more casual clubs can be a bit more on the social side. Either way, they are lots of fun! Decide for yourself which one suits your fancy and budget, but make sure you book in advance because they are all popular.
Jim Haynes Supper Club
The name Jim Haynes is synonymous with the words Paris supper club. He is the original. For the past 30 years, he has been organizing dinners and hosting guests at his apartment in Paris’s 14th arrondissement.
Dinners are Sunday evenings from about 8-11pm and though he doesn’t charge, he does ask for a donation (€25 is suggested). On any given week, you can expect locals, expats and visitors from all over the world. His soirées are open to anyone, but you do need to call ahead or email to reserve.
To learn more about him and reserve, visit jim-haynes.com
Hidden Kitchen
A few years back I shared my experience at Hidden Kitchen. I’m happy to report that both my camera and my food photography skills have improved greatly since then. Due to their popularity, Laura and Braden have moved to a new, larger space, but I’m sure the quality of the food remains the same.
These days they serve up to 16 guests, a seasonal ten-course menu, with wine, in their lovely Paris apartment right in the city center. At €90 per person, it certainly isn’t a bargain option, but it’s worth a splurge for the quality of the food prepared, presentation and gorgeous setting.
You can get more information on their website HKMenus.com
Un Artiste a la Table
This newcomer to the Paris supper club scene is billed as a private address where art and gastronomy meet. It is quite similar to the underground kitchen concept, with one addition; a guest speaker who is also an artist.
Started by two Spanish women and an American chef, once per week, up to 12 guests sit down to a gourmet meal at their 17th arrondissement address, complete with wine and a different guest speaker for each dinner. Cost is €70 per person.
You can find more information on their website unartistealatable.blogspot.com
Super Marmite
Looking for a local foodie experience in Paris? Click here for info on a cooking class and gourmet market tour with a local Parisienne.
Voguéo : Paris’ Water Transport System
Photo: Clicsouris
There are so many ways to travel around Paris these days. Taxi, Métro, Bus, Bat-o-bus, and the more recent Vélib bike program are just a few great options. Not to mention one of my most recommended ways – good old fashioned shoe leather!
But, did you know that Paris has been testing its own water transport system, called Voguéo, for the past three years?
Well, it has and apparently it has been a success! So much so, that the city is planning to expand its water boat transport system in Paris and beyond. Though it won’t be exactly like Venice’s vaporetto, it is certain to be yet another great way to get around Paris and France.
After three years of testing, it was decided to move forward with the expansion of the Voguéo network, which if the current plans materialize, will connect the Seine and Marne rivers in Paris.
Currently, the Paris ferries (which run every 15-20 minutes depending on the day and rush-hour times), connect the Gare d’Austerlitz to the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, the Port de Bercy and the eastern suburbs. Single tickets cost a mere €3 and children under 4 years of age ride free.
Slated for a 2013 debut, the new Voguéo network will include three lines that run daily and coordinate with the bus, Métro and RER networks in Paris and will cost 7€ for a one-way ticket. There is also talk of the Voguéo being included in the Navigo Paris pass, which is a transport pass for the city.
Though the Voguéo ferries will not likely operate in very inclimate weather, I think this is a great option for those who prefer to stay above ground and see the gorgeous scenery as opposed to heading underground to travel around Paris.
What do you think? Is this exciting news and would you use Voguéo?
Planning a trip to Paris? Click here to see how I can help!
Source : Bonjour Paris
Village Saint-Paul Paris
Many a Paris traveler heads to the City of Light with the goal of shopping for antiques. And most of those antique-lovers put a visit to the largest and most famous Paris Puces, Saint-Ouen, at the top of their itinerary. Some may even head to one of my favorites, the lesser-known Vanves Market.
But tucked away between the banks of the Seine and the Marais neighborhood is a little gem of a shopping area, just oozing with charm, called the Village Saint-Paul. Hidden behind a maze of interconnected courtyards and alleyways, this quaint little area looks like something from a fairytale, with its covered cobblestone walkways, and ivy-drenched buildings that house about 200 antique dealers and collectors.
Many of these shops are perfect for browsing, as well as buying unique one-of-a-kind items. You certainly won’t have the same selection that you would have at the Saint-Ouen, but it’s much less crowded, much more picturesque and not at all overwhelming.
Occasionally, you may get lucky enough to stumble onto one of the neighborhood yard sales and find tables spilling out onto the sidewalks.
This is a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon, just wandering in and out of the nooks and crannies that surround the ancient buildings, shopping in peace and quiet, while visiting the little shops in search of a real Paris treasure. Don’t miss a visit to the old medieval fortress wall and tower from the 11th and 12th century, and the Hotel de Sens.
The area isn’t limited to just antiques, either. There are lots of art galleries, ateliers and artisan boutiques offering up decor and design items.
Dealers are open Monday – Saturday from 11am – 7pm.
If you are interested in a little virtual visit, watch the video.
Photos ©Nichole Robertson of Little Brown Pen
What is your favorite place to shop for antiques in Paris? Tell us in the comments!
Traveling to Paris? You might be interested in a cooking class or market tour.
A Moveable Party in Paris
After a long day of sightseeing in the Ciy of Light, many folks decide to pack it in early. Those who are into the party scene know there is plenty of nightlife in Paris to keep you busy after hours. But did you know that some of the coolest and hippest Paris nightlife actually happens on moving vehicles?
That’s right, these three, fun after-hours activities in Paris will keep the party moving, because they all happen at night on buses, trains and boats!
Batofar
While this one doesn’t actually cruise up and down the Seine, the fact that the action happens on a boat docked on the river means it qualifies in my book! Batofar, which is located at the Porte de la Gare in the 13th arrondissement, was the original Paris nightclub on a boat. At the evening, this lighthouse boat still attracts the hip crowd with DJ’s spinning music for after-hours dance parties, avant-garde techno bands and live International Jazz.
Open Tuesday – Saturday nights from 6pm on. Cover is € 12 – € 16 depending on the event. Closed during the winter months.
Paris Soiree Bus
If you’re looking for an über cool VIP experience, the Soiree Bus is a party bus for rent. The bus is available for your own special event or private party, like a family reunion, bachelorette party or after-hours business event. Six or seven different packages are on offer and can include casino games, a DJ, dancefloor, a bar and even food. You can tool around to all the popular Paris monuments, with the brightly-colored neon flashing lights announcing your arrival or design your own custom tour. You can also just book individual tickets for the Paris Night Ride – a sightseeing after dark tour.
Paris Night Ride from € 30 pp, other VIP events from € 660
Check out their cool video!
The iDNight train to Paris
Who needs sleep when you’re dancing, drinking and chatting on the night train to Paris? After all, you’ll have plenty of time to sleep when you’re dead, right? This special TGV night train was designed to attract younger travelers by replacing sleeper cars with party cars and offering up cheaper ticket prices on the Paris to Nice route. DJ’s spin music, there is a bartender and a lounge and even prize giveaways – like movie tickets and t-shirts. It may not be a hard-core club atmosphere, but there is definitely a fun social vibe among fellow travelers.
iDNightTrains only run on the weekend. Tickets start at € 15 one-way.
Can you see yourself visiting these hip and trendy nightspots? Which one appeals the most?
Traveling to Paris? Click here to see how I can help plan your dream trip!
Winter in Paris
While many consider summer the perfect time to travel, it can be the most crowded and the most expensive time to visit. Those who want to save a few pennies should venture out in the middle of winter and receive a real treat!
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the lovely city of Paris during the chilly winter months, here are a few fun things to fill your time with.
Ice Skating
- Pailleron (32 rue Edouard Pailleron) – The days of skating around to traditional holiday songs is over, at least at this rink! Jean-Baptiste Guillot, founder of the indie rock label Born Bad Records, helped to revamp Parisian skating by adding a little rock and roll. Now skaters can zip and glide to the stylings of live bands or DJs from 8 pm until midnight. So if you’re looking to jam out while you skate, this is the place to be.
- Hôtel de Ville (Dec 17 – Feb 17) – For a more traditional afternoon, head over to this rink. Whether you’re a skating pro or blading up for the first time, gliding past this gorgeous landmark is the perfect way to spend a Parisian afternoon. Also, bring the kids along! Paris’s city hall not only holds the ice skating rink, but a double-decker merry-go-round with traditional wooden horses.
- Eiffel Tower (Dec 18 – Feb 9) – That’s right, you can now test out your skating ability on the first floor of the famous tower. Nearly 60 feet in the air, guests have been enjoying the rink since 2004. While this spot certainly attracts more tourists, it certainly is a great story to tell your friends back home and an experience you won’t soon forget.
A Spin on the Millennium Wheel
Originally built in 2000 and appropriately called the Millennium Wheel, this ferris wheel has been rebuilt every winter season since 2007. At the foot of the prestigious Champs-Elysées avenue, it provides the perfect end to a day of shopping. For the price of 9 euros, you can take a ride up and around the wheel – basking in the beauty of the city from 200 feet in the air.
Food Specialties
If your winter visit happens to be early enough, it will likely coincide with game season. Things like rabbit, pheasant and deer will grace menus alongside earthy soups and sauces featuring wild mushrooms, truffles and mountain cheeses. Other traditional winter foods in Paris include oysters, crayfish and lobster. Seafood lovers will easily find a variety of options at their fingertips as they go from bistro to brasserie.
Those with a sweet tooth will find the popular Bûches de Noël (yule logs) and Galettes des Rois (flaky, almond flavored tarts) showcased at pâtisseries all over the city! When you need a little something to warm you from the bone-chilling temps – head to a cozy café for a bowl of French onion soup or a pot full of decadent French hot chocolate. Don’t forget to explore far beyond the five-star joints to the more local haunts.
Quieter Museum Visits
One of the best parts about visiting Paris in the winter is that you won’t be standing in lines for very long at all. At the Musée de Louvre, you’ll have the chance to gaze upon the Mona Lisa without peering over heads or being elbowed by onlookers. It’s ideal for families with children, the physically handicapped or simply those who would enjoy a bit of peace and quiet with their art.
The Chateau de Versailles is also blissfully relaxed at this time. The weather runs the potential of ruining your time in the magnificent gardens, so just make sure you bring an umbrella and dress appropriately. As a reminder – check individual museum times because many might have reduced hours in the off-season.
Les Soldes
Soldes are the semi-annual, state-regulated sales in France where department stores, boutiques, designer outlets and everything in between clear out the merchandise from the previous season and make room for the fresh and new. This year’s winter soldes will run from January 12 through February 15, 2011.
For stores, it’s a glorified spring cleaning and for shoppers, it’s a bargain-shopper’s paradise. The best advice to make the most? Be early, go during off hours, dress simply (to save precious dressing room time) and be careful about when you splurge and when you save. The further into the sales period you get, the larger the discounts.
Another valuable tip: pick up the Paris Shopping Book which contains a list of more than 300 shops, restaurants, hotels and cultural venues. All places are divided by themes and can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Participating shops or hotels will have a copy for you as well as the welcome and information points of the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau. You can also download or print a free copy.
Oh Those Gray Paris Skies
While many visitors might delight in the thought of crystal-clear blue skies, there is no denying how moody gray and cloudy skies will make for a magical backdrop for those monument, landmark, architecture and café photos you long to capture. There is no better or cheaper Paris souvenir than shots of the city in winter!
Leaves that once clung to trees and obstructed views, have since fallen and now unveil glimpses of Paris that were previously hidden from the summer’s eye. And if you are lucky enough to be there during even the lightest snowfall, you’ll have a field day capturing the most beautiful and romantic shots of the city’s rooftops, bridges, balconies and park benches covered in a dusting of fluffy white flakes.
If you’re searching for that natural view of Paris, the one with the same warmth but less tourists milling about – head over in the middle of winter and take in all that this amazing city has to offer.
Have you been to Paris in the winter? What’s your favorite thing about the winter season?
Written by: Kelly Gallucci Photo Credits: jbourque / dalbera / gaël chardon / Alex E. Proimos / pterjan / acousticskyy
Travel Tip Tuesday : Three Free Paris Holiday Events
The holiday season is in full force both here and Europe. Recently I posted about Christmas Markets in Paris, but this Travel Tip Tuesday, I wanted to share a few more free holiday festivities to take advantage of if you happen to be traveling to Paris from now through the end of the year.
1. Paris Illuminated. It’s no secret that the Champs-Elysées is a spectacular sight with its energy-saving lights on the 400 trees that line the grand boulevard from Place de l’Etoile to the Place de la Concorde during the holidays. But during the months of December and January, many other neighborhoods join in the celebration. Over 100 streets and squares in Paris, in almost every arrondissement, erect Christmas trees, decorations and colored holiday lights – each one prettier than the next. Check the ParisInfo.com website for details and specific locations.
2. Holiday Lights at Paris’s Department Stores. If you think the holiday department store windows in New York are something special, just wait until you see what the French have to offer! End of the year festivities at Paris’s big department stores include decking out their facades in colorful lights and enlisting the help of designers to create their inventive and elaborate window displays; themes change every year. Visit the big four – Le Bon Marché, BHV, Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. And don’t forget to visit the interior courtyard of Galeries Lafayette where you can drool over their massive 20 meter high Christmas tree which glows with over 5,000 lights!
3. Christmas Sound and Light Show. Notre-Dame hosts a daily spectacular light, music and ’nativity in art’ show on a giant screen hanging in the nave. On-going performances happen about every 30 minutes and feature recordings of Notre Dame’s choir and organ. An added bonus is viewing Paris’s Christmas tree, which graces the square in front of the iconic cathedral. Admission is free, but donations are always welcome!
What are your favorite free holiday events in Paris? Share in the comments.
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