If you are traveling to Paris with the intention of shopping 'til you drop, keep in mind that there are two officially designated sales periods each year.

At the end of January, for the duration of a few weeks, every department store and boutique begins a state-regulated slashed-price feeding frenzy.

Great deals can be had on Winter clothing, shoes, accessories, etc. Likewise, the Summer sale season begins sometime at the end of June and lasts into July. Do not expect to find sales happening at any other time of the year, although discount vendors can be found all around the city.

Each year the dates for the sales vary, so check online to find out the start and ending dates. Expect crowded shops and lines for dressing rooms. And be prepared to make quick decisions, for if you hesitate on a well-discounted item, someone will come right up behind you and snatch it up.

This is no shopping ground for the meek. In fact, many shoppers come in to try on merchandise before the sales begin, just to be sure of sizing, and then make a beeline for their heart's desire, as soon as the doors are unlocked.

Just like anywhere else, if you shop early in the day, you will have a more pleasant experience. Many shops have special extended hours during the sales.

So if you're seeing large signs that proclaim, "SOLDES" everywhere, it's sale time, baby!

"Everything here is discounted, except for love."