Then, head over to Epernay, France's champagne region, for a tour of the Moet & Chandon cellars.

Next, return to Paris for more shopping—including a visit to Berluti, one of the most expensive shoe stores in the world. Sample Parisian perfume at Frederic Malle's Editions de Parfums, and hunt for bargains with Didier Ludot, the market leader in second-hand clothing. Finish the day with a relaxing dinner cruise on the River Seine.

At the end of the tour, stop by the legendary hotel George V for a chat with general manager Didier Le Calvert and a lesson in flower arranging from Jeff Leatham, the hotel's florist-in-residence. Top off the stay by cooking a gourmet meal with George V's head chef.

Paris Facts:

• Paris has a total area of 41 square miles.

• The Lancaster room rates range from $350 to $500 per night.

• Parisian shop hours are usually Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. through 6:30 p.m.

Contact Information:

The Lancaster
Lancaster 7
Rue de Berri, Champs Elysées
75008 Paris
33-1-40-76-40-76
www.hotel-lancaster.fr

Editions de Parfums
37 Rue de Grenelle
Paris
33-1-42-22-77-22
www.editionsdeparfums.com

Didier Ludot
20-24 Galerie de Montpensier
Jardin du Palais Royal
75001 Paris
33-1-42-96-06-56
Kelly@didierludot.com
www.didierludot.com

Best Champagne Facts:

• Founded in 1743, Moet & Chandon is the largest champagne house in France.

• Moet & Chandon guides give one-hour tours by reservation only.

• Champagne should be served at 43-48 degrees Fahrenheit for the best smell and taste.

Contact Information:

Moet & Chandon
www.moet.com

French Boutique Facts:

• Berluti's shoes run from $2,000 to $85,000 a pair.

• The court of Louis XV applied perfume daily to their skin, clothing and furniture.

• "Haute couture" describes the creation of exclusive, high-quality, trend-setting fashions by designated ateliers for individuals. The term is protected from misuse by law.

• There are 32 bridges that cross the River Seine.

Contact Information:

Berluti
26 rue Marbeuf
Paris 75008, France
33-0-1-53-93-97-97

George V Facts:

• American Joel Hillman originally opened the George V in 1928 and spent $31 million on construction and furnishings.

• The German soldiers who occupied the hotel during World War II weren't aware of the George V's cache of fine wines, thanks to employees who had sealed up the wine cellars with brick.

• At one time, the hotel offered guests private air taxi service.

• George V room rates range from $520 to $1045 per night.

• The floral budget for George V can exceed $60,000 a month.

• Le Cinq restaurant at George V serves dinner from 6:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

Contact Information:

Four Seasons George V, Paris
31, Avenue George V
Paris , 75008 France
33-0-1-49-52-7000
www.fourseasons.com/paris/index.html