Paris's permanent sales

The city boasts a great deal of discount shopping.

This is where I go --
and how I get there.

Among the boutiques for well-known brands

Even Parisians rarely know that there's important discount center just outside city limits, which one can reach by public transportation. It centralizes last season's unsold merchandise  via 74 major-brand boutiques (Charles Jourdan, Apostrophe, Jacadi ... and men's wear, shoes, sunglasses, housewares) at prices that are at 30% discount at least.

Another pleasant aspect of this mall is that very few people go there, because it's a bit complicated. If you drive, Google will give directions. If you go by public transportation, here's how.

As well, the trip reveals layers of change.

As in New York, take the right train! Direction "Saint-Denis".

Check the lighted panel.

Get out at "Mairie de Saint-Ouen"

This town on Paris's northern fringe may look boring. But please scroll down.

Mairie de Saint-Ouen (City Hall)

City Hall looks like any other -- in France.

Schedules are clearly posted.

The bus runs every 12-15 minutes.

This is real Paris, much more vital what mass tourism promotes.

You will pass this excellent restaurant.

After about 10 minutes, you cross the Seine River.



Get off at this stop.

You will pass examples of 19th-century industrialization...

.

..and behind the high-rises, vineyards and a village church.

Marques Avenue will be right ahead of you. Notice that the parking lot isn't full. On weekdays, you will have it largely to yourself.

But changes are coming. These high-rises, and a much larger clientèle, are on the way.