Letter: Praise for Paris
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.From Ms Suzy Menkes Sir: There is something very wrong with Jaci Stephen ("Did Simone de Beauvoir ever have a Christmas like this?", 19 December) - and all those people who whinge about the Eurostar train, Paris cafes and the "forward" attitudes of French waiters who take an interest in (ie, serve) a single woman on her own.
In six Eurostar journeys, I have never been searched (do they like Prada bags better than rucksacks?). I have had only courtesy, help with luggage and good (French) coffee in peasant class and a decent meal in first class.
If Jaci Stephen can find me a flexible ticket to Paris for half the chunnel fare, I will buy her a pair of French knickers.
After six years commuting to Paris, and enjoying the best of two capital cities, I would say that a woman who thinks Paris is a dump needs either a new guidebook, or a new attitude.
If you don't like shopping and foie gras, you can always try the "elitist" stuff like Poussin and the Louvre. Or do like most Brits: cross the channel, steer clear of Paris, keep your prejudices intact and takes three dozen bottles of St Emilion back home.
Bonnes fetes! SUZY MENKES Redactrice de Mode International Herald Tribune Paris 19 December
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments