Book Description
Bestselling writer Suzy Gershman (dubbed “Super Shopper Suzy” by Oprah) is our answer to Peter Mayle in this heartfelt, breezy, and funny story of starting over in Paris. Suzy had always fantasized about moving to Paris with her husband, but when he dies unexpectedly, she decides to fulfill their dream alone. Here she gives a deliciously conversational chronicle of her first year in Paris and of the dizzying delights and maddening frustrations of learning to be a Parisian. Filled with GershmanÂ's insiderÂ's tips on everything from cooking the perfect clafoutis to—naturally— shopping, CÂ'est la Vie is delightfully entertaining and captures the exhilarating experience of beginning a new adventure.
“Anyone who has dreamed of going to live in Paris, or who has faced a devastating loss, or wonders about sex with a Frenchman, will love Suzy GershmanÂ's inspiring story.”
—Diane Johnson, author of Le Divorce
Customer Reviews:
C'est La Vie.......2007-08-27
For readers who are looking for a book that gives the nuts and bolts of moving to Paris served up with humor and pathos, this is it! Already a well-known writer and a person with international connections, she is not
your average housewife moving overseas since her network of friends keeps her with constant invitations to various functions, thus her move was made
far easier because of that. But she faces enough of the daily chores of
living that the narrative is kept plausible enough for the average person to relate to the hardships involved in moving overseas, even to a city like Paris. Very enlightening about everyday life in the city.
The Princess Diary.......2007-07-31
I'm a sucker for the move-to-Paris (Provence, Tuscany, Spain, etc.) genre, with one caveat. I like the stories where the writer has actually moved to Paris or wherever, and is not just buying a summer home expecting to become a native. In other words, I liked A Year in Provence, and was not so fond of Under the Tuscan Sun.
In C'est la Vie, Suzy Gershman has indeed sold her house in the States and moved to Paris. She is newly widowed, which adds a different twist to this story. Gershman tells how she managed to get an apartment and furniture, how she dealt with the French bureaucaracy without speaking much French, how she coped with losing her husband, and how she got back into the dating game. She keeps an upbeat attitude in spite of all the obstacles and becomes, as an acquaintance tells her, "almost French."
C'est la Vie has everything going for it, and yet, I feel as if I should have enjoyed it more than I did. I was not aware of Gershman's Born to Shop series of books, so was a bit perplexed by the frequent and detailed shopping interludes. Apparently, she is also a celebrity of sorts, so she does a bit of name-dropping. She doesn't flinch at popping for regular trips to London to have her hair and nails done, so she isn't exactly a budget traveler.
C'est la Vie reads more like a fantasy than like a travel memoir. I guess I was expecting to identify with Gershman, but the affair with the wealthy Count, the New Year's Eve assignation with a handsome Italian at the Ritz, the purchase of a summer home in Provence, made it a wee bit difficult to connect with Suzy.
Although I did enjoy C'est la Vie, I also recommend Almost French by Sarah Turnbull. It's written by an Australian journalist who travels to Paris, falls in love with a French man, and stays. Somehow, I found her story much more real.
I am underwhelmed and I just returned from Paris.......2007-03-12
Having just returned to the States from two weeks in Paris, France, I picked up this book half-priced here
on the west coast. I wanted so much to like it...but I am disappointed. This book was published by Penguin no less, and the writing is tacky and the thinking shallow. I did not know that Suzy
Gershman is the Born to Shop series author, which kind of explains the fact that she goes on endlessly about her shopping sprees, which become very boring. She seems to have so little knowledge of French history, art, and literature, that her idea of "being French" is eating at the right cafes and sleeping with an ancient French man. I am almost at the end of the book, and there has been no mention of the fabulous paintings and sculpture of Paris, as well as the museums and wonderful ethnic diversity (we went to a terrific Asian-French cafe right off the Champs Elysees, for instance). Despite her great connections, I feel a bit sorry for Suzy. She is very revealing about her personal life, and at times even I had to laugh at some of her silly antics, but she is not a very good writer, just a good schmoozer. You still might want to read the book if you want something kinda trashy to read in your bubble bath or whatever. I was amused by her cooking instant brownies and serving them to the French. I wonder what they think of her! It's a bit horrifying to think that she may be their idea of a typical American.
Enjoyed very much.......2007-02-04
I loved this book, wish it would have gone on and on. I am "into" French stuff right now so I found the book very intersting and very fun and very fast read.
C'est La Vie: An American Woman Begins a New Life in Paris.......2007-01-19
This book is a reality check. It's hard to read because it isn't all "hearts & flowers" about Paris and France. She had a hard time and details her struggles. But go to the finish. You'll be so glad you did!
There is so much good information but I also found it fun to follow her adaptation to the French culture.
This is a great book to give someone who is thinking about moving to France; Paris in particular. They might have a chance of having all the paperwork it will take to rent an apartment!
Book Description
For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop Italy is even easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings and shopping secrets than ever before.
Customer Reviews:
You can do better (and I should have known better).......2007-02-23
Since I'm planning another trip to Italy this year, I got the current edition on a whim. I had bought an old version several years ago on a discount rack when I first started traveling to Europe and I found a fair bit of the information helpful, but this one is a disappointment in several ways. As others have pointed out, much of the information is quite obviously inaccurate or out of date. Furthermore, this is not much good as a shopping guide unless you have money to burn since it is heavily skewed toward the high-end designer market. The author throws in a few snippets from her younger associates about more affordable places to shop but that's not enough. Admittedly, Italy hasn't been a bargain hunter's paradise for many years, even before the currency conversion that has almost ruined shopping in Europe for us Americans, but there really are many affordable options for the average traveler. Just take a look on Virtual Tourist or some fo the other travel forums & you'll find a wealth of advice. From that & my own searches, I've found a pile of good shopping information. Now if I can do that on my own, surely Gershman and her team could have done a better job of research, especially if they have the nerve to charge money for it.
However, my real problem is with Gershman's attitude, which has clearly worsened between the date of my old edition and the present one. The woman is a snob, plain and simple. If you don't catch this from her over-emphasis on designer goods, you'll figure it out from all of her complaining about Italy being overrun with tourists (obviously forgetting that she is one herself)and the Italian merchants taking advantage of this by offering more & more junk. When I read her review of Francesco Rogani, a handbag shop in Rome, I truly wondered if I had been to the same place: she claims that there is a discrepancy between the selling price & the actual retail, the latter of which she claims is too much for sub-standard goods, but what is even more puzzling is her complaint that the clerks have a "less than customer-oriented" attitude. I have been there several times & have never been told of this mysterious difference between prices. Also, I have always found them to be courteous and polite; in fact, on my last visit, they found out it was my birthday & offered to get me a reservation at a special restaurant that I never would have found on my own (it was wonderful and they treated me to the appetizer, dessert, and a glass of liqueur). Now if that isn't "customer-oriented" service, I don't know what is.
Anyone who's traveled abroad even a few times will tell you the same thing: if you act like a typical snotty, demanding tourist, you won't be treated well. The Golden Rule is especially important these days for us Americans, and I assure you that if you are polite, well-mannered and friendly to the Italians or anyone else, you'll have a wonderful time shopping. Talk to the concierge at the hotel and the waiters & shop owners if you want to find out the real bargains - they may not be big-name designer baubles screaming their status, but they will be special, something that a real Italian would own, and more than likely something that you wouldn't find back home.
SUZY IS THE BEST OUT THERE......BAR NONE.......2005-09-22
I have traveled to Europe and Asia with a trusty Born To Shop Guide Book many times and Suzy gives me the best overall advice. Every once in a while a new writer will come on board with no experience and forgot to warn us of the pitfalls of being a "Rich American Traveler"-Suzy has steered me clear of many problems while traveling alone. This is the reason I ADORE her and have even bought the older versions just to compare information. Time moves on and locations change.
Can't wait for the new Born To Shop San Francisco and I just received the new Asian version-try these too!
Don't bother!.......2005-07-27
Don't bother buying this book. First, none of the Born To Shop books get updated much between editions, so lots of information is out of date. Second, Suzy Gershman is totally out of touch with reality. I took a shopping tour to Italy with a company called Shop Around Tours and obviously a lot of us had this book. The tour leader warned us not to pay too much attention to it and she was right. BUT we went to Mantero, which is one of the places mentioned in the book, and it was great. Otherwise, the people that went off on their own following Suzy's wild goose chases were very disappointed. So the shopping in Italy was great, but this book was a waste of money.
Full of inaccuracies.......2005-03-31
Suzy Gershman needs to retire already. All of her books, including this one, are full of inaccuracies. Each edition is barely updated, so there's no need to buy the new version if you have an old one. It's time Frommers dropped Gershman and hired someone under the age of 70 to update these books that shops NOW and knows what they're talking about. These Born To Shop books are an amusing read but a complete waste of money if you're looking for current information.
italian cashmere.......2004-11-24
we visited a new lisitng in your book (near to siena although listed as Florence): a real cashmere goat farm run by an American woman from Long Island!
the utterly spectaclar view was on a par with the hand-woven cashmere they sell on their farm - sublime!!!
definitely top quality in every way, and their goats milk skincare products are superlative
couldn't have been better
Book Description
"Gershman may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike." —The Washington Post
For nearly twenty years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world s best finds. Now Born to Shop Hong Kong, Shanghai & Beijing is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you ll find:
- What s hot in Hong Kong, from hip new fashions and designer labels to porcelain, jade, and colorful markets
- The best of Shanghai, from the Old City to the exciting new Pudong area
- Terrific buys in Beijing, from the Silk Market to the Pearl Market to the famous antiques street of Liulichang
- A completely new section on Hanoi and its unique treasures such as contemporary art, sophisticated lacquer, and funky ethnic fashions
Download Description
""Gershman may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike.""The Washington Post For nearly twenty years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world s best finds. Now Born to Shop Hong Kong, Shanghai & Beijing is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you ll find: What s hot in Hong Kong, from hip new fashions and designer labels to porcelain, jade, and colorful markets The best of Shanghai, from the Old City to the exciting new Pudong area Terrific buys in Beijing, from the Silk Market to the Pearl Market to the famous antiques street of Liulichang A completely new section on Hanoi and its unique treasures such as contemporary art, sophisticated lacquer, and funky ethnic fashions
Customer Reviews:
An invaluable romp through Asia.......2007-05-30
I don't like to shop, but I loved this book. In my experience it's accurate and on-target for Beijing, HK and Hanoi (which is included). It's full of practical information (consider going to Asia via Tel Aviv on El Al -- who knew?) and points out the distinctions betweeen confusing names e.g. Shanghai Museum and Shanghai Art Museum, two different places.
The information on visas, travel and shipping is sensible and matches my experiences in Asia.
The writing style is punchy and entertaining (e.g. "Rental cars: You have to be kidding, right?") so like all the best travel books, it's worth reading even if you never leave home.
Don't waste your money.......2007-01-19
I bought this book for my daughter and son in law who were going to China for 3 weeks. They discarded the book after finding the information
not accurate. They went to one of the recommended restaurants, and couldn't even eat the food. This was just one of many disappointments in this book. She was very disappointed in the book!
She also met someone else on her trip, who had the book and felt the same way. Sorry I bought it for her.
Don't Buy it!
SUZY IS A VETERAN OF ASIA & GIVES US THE BEST.......2006-10-24
Suzy is so multi-faceted and therefore is the best author on travel out there. I have been to Asia recently & traveled with her Born To Shop Guide which steered me in "All The Right Places". She is also traveling to Singapore and Australia (my other favorite trips) for a new book for 2007. Don't Miss it.....oh, by the way, Suzy also lets you travel with her. Try it..........you will like it!!!!!!!! Sherrill Kearney Creek
Much Ado About Nothing..........2006-05-14
I bought this book for a trip to Bejing and Shanghai - and was quite disappointed. There is nothing in it that is not in other guidebooks. Several of the recommendations were hyped. And the attitude - snobby, awful. I'd suggest the Luxe guides, which not only tell you where to shop but also suggest places to eat, to drink, etc.
Book Description
"Gershman's guide may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike," praises The Washington Post, and you'll agree. For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop Paris is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you'll find:
- The best of the shopping scene, from tony designer boutiques to funky flea markets
- What's new and hot, from the revitalization of the Left Bank to the trendiest young designers
- Excellent values, from bath and body to home style
- Great gift ideas, even for the friend who has everything-plus the best gifts for less than $10
- The best airfare, hotel, and dining values—so you can maximize your shopping dollars
- Tips on customs, shipping, and tax laws
Customer Reviews:
It's ALL in the details!.......2007-01-19
I've been traveling to Paris for 35 years (lived there for one) and so, know the city fairly well.... A friend lent me this book, and I tried to use it during the 3 weeks I spent in Sept-Oct of last year (2006), and was very disappointed. I mapped out the locations of several of the shops Suzy raves about, and arrived, only to find that the store was no longer (was it ever?) at the address she gave. If you know Paris, you know that there are tons of little, hard-to-find-rues, so it was VERY frustrating to spend so much time looking....and finding nothing. I would suggest she do her homework before she publishes another guide.
Great Read - Mediocre Advice.......2006-09-02
I purchased this book a little while before going to Paris and read it cover to cover, made maps, reference marks on my maps (basically went over board) believing I had invested money in a guide that was somewhat acurate. Sadly, I was mistaken - many of the stores mentioned were either no longer in business or were at another address. Most of the advice was off the cuff and not honest enough to be taken seriously by anyone. It is a fun read, don't get me wrong, but more as fiction than fact. Paris is a living, breathing animal of a city, always changing - i realize now that advice, not military precision shopping, is what I am looking for, and this is not it.
Same Paris I go to?.......2006-08-06
I have been traveling to Paris for 20 years and even lived there for a bit. Out of habit, I checked out Suzy's latest book. I wanted to know where Christian Louboutin's store was. she doesn't mention him. not a word. He is perhaps one of the hottest shoe designers going with his famous red soles. Suzy doesn't know or doesn't care.
Onto Pierre Hardy, a shoe designer in Palais Royale who is now making coveted purses with a wait list a mile long, again Suzy doesn't seem clued into who he is either.
The list goes on. Her hotel's are ridiculous. There are many wonderful hotels that are under $200.00 a night. Hotel Brighton on rue d' Rivoli right next to the much touted Hotel Mercier is one. Hotel Relais du Louvre next the still close Samaratine Deprtment store, which as been closed for a few years, but Suzy didn't mention even though her copyright date is post closing.
with information so available right now on the internet, save your money and buy a cafe or a glass of wine. Suzy, you are past your prime.
A good starting point..........2005-06-02
It seems as though Ms. Gershman either read the reviews here, or else the sorry state of the U.S. dollar against the euro was the catalyst for changes in the 10th edition, published in November 2004.
I used the book as one of my shopping resources during a short visit to Paris in May 2005. Of course, Ms. Gershman's picks still are on the pricey (and middle-aged) side, but she seems to have added more information on less expensive shopping options. And in case you don't share Ms. Gershman's taste in clothes, there are also picks from her son Aaron (who seems to be in his late teens or early twenties) and her assistant Jenny (apparently in her twenties or thirties).
She does list pricey hotels, but I don't think she should be considered a source on lodging since she lives part-time in Paris (and she even tells you how to rent her apartment, if you are so inclined).
I somewhat recommend this book because it gives a solid overview of shopping in the city and gives you a good base about the various neighborhoods. Plus, she's brutally honest ... since my shopping time was limited, her comment that Colette is overrated allowed me to skip that store and go somewhere where I can actually afford to buy things. She made me aware of a great place to buy handbags. And most importantly, she demystifies the process of getting détaxe ... which these days is crucial for Americans!
Normally, I'd have given this book four stars, but I've taken off another star because even though the book was published in November 2004, many things seem to be out of date (a champagne she recommended was nowhere to be found). I had a feeling there would be some problems with the listings, so when I was planning my trip (...)
Things I would have liked:
* Phone numbers for the stores, as well as opening hours.
* More detailed maps
If I were to do my shopping planning again, I'd probably spend an afternoon at Barnes & Noble with this book, reading the first couple of chapters (which include her top picks, as well as Aaron and Jenny's choices), then leafing through the rest of the book and taking down names of stores that interest me. Then, I would supplement my list with two sources that are more appropriate for a woman in her twenties or thirties: Time Out's store listings on their Web site, and the section on Paris shopping in the June 2005 issue of Lucky (which came out just in time for my trip, though I have to advise you that those listings are no cheaper than Ms. Gershman's picks!).
Certainly not the best guide for bargain-shoppers!.......2004-10-22
"Disappointing" is the best word to apply to this book. I found so little useable advice (and so much that was out-of-date), that I would try to resell my copy of this book via Amazon, if only I would not feel guilty for ripping off a fellow bargain-hunter!
Of the other (non bargain-shopping) advice in this book, I could find lots of places on my own (online on a search engine) to spend "top dollar" in Paris. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone who is truly "born to shop"! Phooey!
Book Description
- Download a free companion podcast featuring Suzy!
"Gershman's guide may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike," praises The Washington Post, and you'll agree. For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop New York is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you'll find:
- The best of Manhattan's shopping scene, from world-renowned department stores to hip boutiques-now with even more coverage of the hottest downtown neighborhoods
- Great values on everything from bath and beauty to wedding gowns-plus insider tips on sample sales, flea markets, and factory outlets
- Terrific gift ideas, even for the friend who has everything-plus the best gifts for under $10
- Tips on finding the best hotel and dining values-so you can maximize your shopping dollars
Customer Reviews:
Book Amazon was unable to send me........2007-02-14
I would love to be able to review this book, having just read Suzy's "C'est La Vie". However after a long conversation with a non English as a first language speaker, it was decided if I wanted the rest of my order I would have to forgo Born to Shop NY. Others, let me know if you were able to purchase this book and if it was helpful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Suzy comes through.......2006-10-15
The last edition of Born to Shop disappointed me becasue Suzy Gershman's interest seemed so narrow that the stores and places she liked were too far out of my range. In this edition she's made some changes. Cheap shopping is listed and the luxe, nowhere else except NYC stores are listed as well. She must have gotten some younger helpers because much to my delight the Sean Jean store and and Triple Five Soul shop are mentioned too. One thing I've always liked about the Born to Shop series is that the advice shows you how to get around town safely, how to buy quality and how to have a good time with as few hassles as possible. And don't think this book is just for women. In our last trip to NY my husband frequently consulted it and was very pleased with the directions and commentary.
This book and Gerry Frank's guide are all you really need to take a weekend NYC trip.
A good comprehensive book - with reservations.......2006-07-05
There is a problem with travel books in that they try to cover EVERYthing in a city. I like books that just tell me the best places to go for what I want.
This book leans towards being a total reference, but offers the shopper plenty of options.
The bargain shopper needs to know one thing - Century 21 next to the world trade center site. That is about where the unbelievable bargains end. Now you can save some money on the book and spend it on shopping
One nicety about the book is that the author includes place to eat around the shopping.
Book Description
"Gershman's guide may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike," praises The Washington Post, and you'll agree. For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop London, 12th Edition is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you'll find:
- The best of the shopping scene, from world-class department stores ands trendy boutiques to street markets and sample sales
- Excellent values, from antiques to Doc Martens
- Great gift ideas, even for the friend who has everything—plus the best gifts for less than $15
- The best airfare, hotel, and dining values—so you can maximize your shopping dollars
- Detailed city maps and shopping tours
Download Description
""Gershman's guide may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike,"" praises The Washington Post, and you'll agree. For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop London, 12th Edition is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you'll find: The best of the shopping scene, from world-class department stores ands trendy boutiques to street markets and sample sales Excellent values, from antiques to Doc Martens Great gift ideas, even for the friend who has everything plus the best gifts for less than $15 The best airfare, hotel, and dining values so you can maximize your shopping dollars Detailed city maps and shopping tours
Customer Reviews:
SUZY HAS STOOD THE TEST OF TIME..............2007-09-28
I have been traveling with Suzy (well...with her wonderful books) for 20 years and she has never failed me. This is a fast paced world & prices change by the day so go easy on her. The overall picture is you must get ALL of her books because she will tell you where to travel when other locations are out of sight on $$$. As a money manager my advice is to go now, because with the problems of our credit crunch (won't go away anytime soon)travel is dirt cheap now. I shop online globally constantly but nothing replaces the sights, smells, & the local personalities. Enjoy your travels with Suzy-she is the best out there. I am waiting for the Shopping The World due out in March 2008.
good for guidelines.......2006-11-07
like all travel guides, the pricing is always suspect between the writing and publication time. where this guide is good is that it gives off the beaten path as well as the more 'touristy' stops: good for the first time london visitor as well as the person returning for the umpteenth time. like with anything else, know your prices before you go. **credit card companies do not charge the overseas fee - that is often seen on the atm side!*****
Math 101.......2006-08-19
I only read online the first few pages, as Suzy's reviews have been a bit off the past few years. I was suspicious to read on page three in her quick shop section that I should pop into Jo Malone as the prices are half what they are at home.
I am a Jo Malone devotee. The whole line. So, I went to Jo's two web sites, UK and USA and to Neiman's, and did a cost comparison. Suzy is partially correct, the prices are half of the USA in London, until you do the currancy conversion!
Here are a few: Body lotion: 38.00 GBP in Jo Maolone London. That converts to $71.40, the body lotions sells for $60.00.
100 ml's of any cologne: 59.00 GBP, that converts to $111.00, it sells for $90.00. Body creme: 44.00 GBP equals $82.00 it retails for $75.00.
This is an exchange rate for August, but the pound has been high for ages, and a few cents/pence either direction isn't going to make it or break it. I also didn't include sales tax in the USA or potential VAT return if you bought enough to qualify in the UK or the 3% that most credit cards charge for foreign transactions.
My point is, suzy cannot be relied on to give accurate well thought out advice, this is your hard earned money, and she hasn't done her research. Shame on her.
Book Description
Who, at one time or another, hasnÂ't dreamed of leaving her life behind and moving to Paris? Bestselling writer Suzy Gershman (dubbed “Super Shopper Suzy” by Oprah and “the most famous shopper in the world” by American Express Card Services) had always planned to retire to the City of Light with her husband. But when he died, Suzy decided to fulfill their dream alone—making a new life for herself in her favorite city.
CÂ'est la Vie is the deliciously chatty chronicle of her first year in Paris, of the dizzying delights and maddening frustrations inherent in learning to be a Parisian. After a grueling apartment search, the woman who was Born to Shop sets out on the terrific adventure that is French daily life—from the great flea markets and restaurants to the mysteries of a French fax machine, the chimney sweep, and a French love affair. Heartfelt, breezy, funny, and garnished with little-known shopping tips, CÂ'est la Vie is a treat not just for armchair travelers, Francophiles, and fans of Peter Mayle, but also for anyone who has ever dreamed of starting life anew.
Customer Reviews:
be happy.......2007-08-08
Love this book. I found all kinds of practical information that would be helpful to me if I ever move to Paris, something that could happen if my dreams come true. Suzy Gershman's book is like reading a letter from an old friend and I devoured each page imagining I was there instead. Reading all the reviews I noticed that readers either hated it or thoroughly enjoyed it. I think the ones who didn't like it were expecting something else and blamed the writer when it didn't live up to their expectations. I didn't like Under the Tuscan Sun because of all the whining, page after page. Suzy doesn't whine, she embraces life. Very readable and fun, too.
Light and Breezy---A Lot of Fun to Read.......2007-01-06
I think this is a delightful book---and one to not take too seriously. It's a great book to read when you are down, ill, or needing a good laugh. I enjoyed Gershman's style of writing and while her experiences would be out of reach for most of us, they were fun to read about.
One reviewer called her vulgar---I just don't see that. While it is true that her affair with a married Frenchmen is not what most would do, it was so typically French. Just don't read this book if you feel a need to judge everyone else based on your own morals. This is a BOOK, not a guide to life.
Don't waste your time or money........2006-04-20
I feel like I have to warn readers, please don't waste time, money or energy on this terrible book. I did plod through it and I did notice her disclaimer at the very end of the book that "she left out the depressing parts" but Gersham is so cold and heartless about the death of her husband, that it is hard to get by that and like her. She does go on about herself and shopping and when she tells her readers about a private medical issue, you have to think "way too much information". I pray there is not a sequel!
WOW-ON THE BEST SELLERS LIST!!!!!! .......2005-09-29
I just adore this book and it gives everyone who reads it (I give it as gifts to my male/female friends)an insight into a whole new Paris which most never even get a chance to visit. How wonderful (even after 30 years of visiting)that Suzy still feels the magic of Paris. The one city on this earth which demands attention.
How wonderful that a woman who has educated so many people of the latest trends is now living her dream. Not even the guilt of her friends, her son, her neighbors-you name it- can stop her now.
I eagerly await your new adventures Suzy!You Go Girl!!!
Utter bilge water - the vain and vulgar Suzy Gershman.......2005-09-26
This book isn't about Paris - it's about the the vain and vulgar Suzy Gershman who uses her husband's life insurance money to move to Paris to look for a rich husband: page 111 ("the man was dead, for heaven's sake, dead"); p. 99 ("my best ... hunting ground ... was in lobbies of luxury hotels"); p. 227 (when reminded of her husband's death, she "burst into giggles"); p. 87 ("I have long thought that my birthday should be a national holiday"). She enjoys adultery (p. 142, "I thought adultery was a French treat I should try just like Krug"); and can't understand why her son is upset when she sells the family home:(p. 210, "I thought I was entitled to a life"). She finds a good hairdresser (p. 68, the creme rinse is free); buys a "pair of tight white jeans" (p. 117); discusses her sex toys (p. 125, 142); is proud to travel with 17 suitcases (p. 213); and thinks she may have genital warts (p. 227 - this is certainly a great deal more than anyone wanted to know, but then again this woman has no sense of dignity at all). She drops Walter and Patricia Wells' name at every opportunity, but they are probably profoundly embarrassed by her. I paid about $3 to buy this book used, because I needed mind candy to read on a plane, but it wasn't worth that much. Truly one of the worst books I have ever read. Read Diane Johnson's "Into A Paris Quartier" instead.
Average customer rating:
- The least useful travel book I've bought
- This book was indispensible
- My Shopping Bible
- Suzy does her homework .
- VERY INFORMATIVE AND WAS ABLE TO SAVE LOTS OF MONEY
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Frommer's Born To Shop Italy (Born to Shop)
Suzy Gershman
Manufacturer: Hungry Minds
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General
| Business & Investing
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ASIN: 0028631420 |
Book Description
For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop: Italy is easier to use and packed with more up-yo date listings and shopping secrets than ever before.
Customer Reviews:
The least useful travel book I've bought.......2000-04-18
I bought this book because I had a positive experience with the Hong Kong version (which is substantially better) during a trip 5 years ago. I did not expect much from this book, but it managed to disappoint anyway. The writing style is so conversational and unstructured that it quickly becomes annoying.
I could put up with the writing style if it was not so obvious that the author was filling space to make up for the lack of content. Basically, if you plan to shop for designer clothes and purses in the big cities and want to know where the designer stores are, then you might get some use out of this. Beyond that, the content is severely limited. Probably the worst example I can think of involves an outlet store. The author admits that she could not even find the place, yet she still included it in her book!
This book was indispensible.......2000-01-16
I just returned from Italy and used this book almost every day. We loved the directions for finding great bathrooms. This book is not just about shopping but tells you all the hints you wish other guide books would tell you. It's very practical and best of all small and light. Her suggestion about how to reach your hotel from the train station in Venice was the best. Thanks for such a great little helper.
My Shopping Bible.......2000-01-06
A must-have for serious shoppers! I was so engrossed in this book I did not notice my plane was delayed on the runway 1 1/2 hours. The attention to detail was impeccable; I used the maps to plan a different shopping trip every day, making the best use of time. Thanks to the tips, I was able to shop on Via della Spiga without maxing out my Visa. Advice like this is indispensable; I was able to bring home the perfect souvenir for everyone and stock up on leather goods during July sales for Xmas gifts. The Born to Shop series allows me to look forward to business trips and constructively deal with jet lag. I earned a Ph.D. in Italian designers, and Peck and Frette linens are among my passions all thanks to this book!
Suzy does her homework ........1999-09-12
Suzy Gershman is one of the only writers of series travel guides who actually earns her percentage of each book, in my opinion. Her shopping series is actually significantly updated from year to year, and therefore, is one of the only ones worth buying repeatedly. I have frequently been astonished that many other brandname guides are essentially reprints of the version for the previous year with little to no update. Why buy them? I've always gotten great tips from Suzy and I appreciate her hard work and wonderful sense of humor. When travel time is limited, it's nice to have Suzy to have done the advance footwork. Keep it up, Suzy! You keep researching and your readers will try to continue to create opportunities to use your shopping advice!
VERY INFORMATIVE AND WAS ABLE TO SAVE LOTS OF MONEY.......1998-04-24
ALTHOUGH QUITE INFORMATIVE WHILE I WAS IN ITALY, I WAS DISAPPOINTED TO FIND THAT THE INFORMATION GIVEN IN YOUR BOOK ABOUT THE SHROUD OF TURIN WAS NOT UP TO DATE. AFTER TRAVELLING TO TURIN FROM MILAN ONLY TO FIND OUT THE CATHEDRAL WAS CLOSED AND THE SHROUD HAS NOT BEEN ON DISPLAY FOR THE PAST 28 YEARS. IT WILL BE OPENED IN LATE APRIL, WISH I HAD KNOWN BEFORE.
Average customer rating:
- So Disappointed!
- Of little value...
- Nice guide for us shopaholics.
|
Frommer's Born To Shop: Hong Kong, Shanghai & Beijing
Suzy Gershman
Manufacturer: Hungry Minds
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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Similar Items:
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Frommer's Portable Hong Kong
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Frommer's Beijing (Frommer's Complete)
ASIN: 0028636716 |
Book Description
These compact, handy guides are packed with insider tips on where to find the most fabulous fashions, the most unique gifts, and the best bargains on everything from antiques to housewares. Includes all the big names, and a "Best of" chapter that pinpoints exactly where to find the finest. Also included is a handful of the author's favorite places to stay and eat.
Customer Reviews:
So Disappointed!.......2002-07-29
Suzy's Hong-Kong only book was wonderful. It recommended specific shops, not just neighborhoods, for every type of good imaginable. It also gave fantastic hints like where not to bother looking if you wear a size on the upper end of the spectrum.
The new book including Shanghai and Beijing is next to worthless. All of the shop recommendations for HK have been ommited. Some of my favorites from "Born to Shop Hong Kong", like Gemsland in the Mandarin Hotel, deserve to be mentioned as providing amazing service, great quality and reasonable prices to every visitor planning on coming to HK.
I purchased the book in preparation for an upcoming trip to Shanghai. With the exception of the overview of the markets, very little else was of use. There are almost no local shop (non-department store) recommendations and suggestions for totally random (and useless?) things like wedding photos. In fact it only gives shopping suggestions for 9 categories- and included in that 9 are things like Drugstores. How are you going to Shop til You Drop in a drugstore?
Additionally, the index is horrible. There is a whole paragraph on the Hoabao Building in the Yu Gardens, but good luck finding any reference to it in the index. This is just one example, there are many more.
I was so disappointed in this book. Entirely way too much time spent on travel logistics. Anyone going to China is not going to purchase this book as their sole resource guide. Leave the logistics to those who do it best, and spend more time on where to shop!
Of little value..........2001-09-18
The author hasn't a clue as to how to negotiate with the Chinese and does not give the correct warnings or prices. She is a "princess". I just returned from my 31st trip to China. There is almost no silk or original merchandise at the Silk Market. However, it is a lot of fun. There is not a shirt or blouse there that cannot be bought for 30 yuan ($3.60). North Face knockoffs can be bought for 130 yuan ($15.60) for their most expensive long jacket. Pearls at the Hong Qiao (Pearl) Market are of very low quality. Most strands cost about 100 yuan ($12). Learn the difference between salt water and fresh water pearls and how to tell the quality difference. Know how to tell if the pearls are fake before you go there. The fourth floor stores are just a different form of marketing pearls so don't be fooled by their nicer western look. Remember that only the store knows their price - and they will only sell to you if they can make a profit. Always walk away after making an what you may consider an absurd offer and after you let them know that you really want to buy the item. Make them make at least two offers before you make your absurd offer. There is not relationship between their initial offfer and what the item is worth. All this takes a lot of time so be prepared. Comparison shop before buying. All stores carry the same items.
Nice guide for us shopaholics........2001-04-20
I purchased Suzy's last edition on Hong Kong, to guide me around this great shopping city. It was very helpful. She tells you the places to forget, and the places not to be missed. When I heard that she was releasing a new edition with Shanghai & Beijing, I purchased it also, for an upcoming trip to Beijing. I was a little disapointed to find that she had trimmed alot off of the Hong Kong section to make room for the mainland cities. But it's still a must have if shopping is on your "to do" list. Suzy seemed to list all the things I wanted to buy on my trip, she does have impecable taste.
Book Description
"Gershman's guide may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike," praises The Washington Post, and you'll agree. For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop France is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you'll find:
- The best of the shopping scene, from Paris' designer boutiquest to colorful markets in Provence
- Great gift ideas, even for the friend who has everything-plus the best gifts for less than $15
- The best airfare, hotel, and dining values—so you can maximize your shopping dollars
- Detailed city maps and shopping tours, including Reims, Lyon, and the Riviera
Download Description
\"Gershman's guide may be the best guide for novice and pro shoppers alike," praises The Washington Post, and you'll agree. For more than ten years, Suzy Gershman has been leading savvy shoppers to the world's best finds. Now Born to Shop France is easier to use and packed with more up-to-date listings than ever before. Inside you'll find:
- The best of the shopping scene, from Paris' designer boutiquest to colorful markets in Provence
- Great gift ideas, even for the friend who has everything-plus the best gifts for less than $15
- The best airfare, hotel, and dining values—so you can maximize your shopping dollars
- Detailed city maps and shopping tours, including Reims, Lyon, and the Riviera
Customer Reviews:
I took this one along with me everywhere I went........2003-08-15
This book helped me to maximize my shopping dollars on my trip to France. With excellent values and gift ideas, I was able to find everything I wanted. Suzy offered an insider's guide to be best shopping scene ranging from Paris' designer boutiques to markets in Province. She also offered advice on where to find the best airfare, hotel, and dining values.
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