picture this: a seven day Mediterranean cruise with glamorous ports of call: Nice, Monaco, Rome, and a few smaller cities mixed in. before leaving I had made note of each Hermes boutique in these locales; looked up the addresses (even the satellite images since time will be limited in each city), and notes about each boutique from researching on the forum. i had Kelly dreams (well one certain dream, a size 32 in Gold).
Being August, I knew that this was the time the Hermes craftsmen went on holiday and so did much of Europe also so these cities will be swarming with tourists. I decided that I would settle for any color Kelly as a souvenir to remember this fantastic trip. I went to Rome but didn't even bother to step into Hermes. I knew that Italian boutiques favor selling the prized Kelly or Birkin to local clientele. Next up, Nice, no dice. Their stock was depleted as they barely had any non-Kelly bags and only one twilly left. Saddened, I placed all my hope in Monaco. This is the playground of the rich and famous, they are sure to have copious amounts of stock, right? Incorrect, the same story as Nice, very slim pickings. I have learned that both of these stores are concession stores so that may have something to do with it. Both cities were also extremely populated. No to leave empty handed I had bought a few Chanels and Louis Vuittons but nothing could replace my Hermes void. I could always inquire at my local Hermes but I wanted to take advantage of the exchange rate and VAT refund. I could have saved thousands!
my last stop was a city named Marseille. Although historic it didn't have the same glamorous appeal as Nice or Monaco. I had opted for an "on your own"experience than a guided tour so I may explore at my own pace. after the bus dropped off the tourists, I headed for the shopping corridor on rue de paradis for some unknown french fashions. on my way, i spotted a lovely bakery and decided to get a macaron the size of a cookie. i took the chocolate since it was tan...like Hermes gold tan. i hopped along and what caught my eye? an orange sign. it's Hermes! they didn't open for another half hour but what do I see through the window on the shelf? a white Kelly! i thought to myself that it would be mine...in 30 minutes! i told myself i would not wait at the door looking desperate so I found solace at a jewelery store a few doors down. the helpful shop keep was showing me her collection and there were some beautiful gems. i kept glancing at my watch to ensure i would be at Hermes at opening time. the time had come and i briskly walked down to Hermes.
upon arrival I was the first customer through the door. i practically followed the security guard in. i was promptly greeted and told them I NEEDED that white kelly. i had totally forgot to inquire about other items that I was interested in to build rapport. the sales associate brought it out and asked me to try it on. i was surprised that it was not a "display". he quickly disappeared and with him came three big boxes. i had thought he was setting them up for a customer but he joyfully exclaimed that he had others! OMG, I can have my cake and eat it too? I told him that I love the white kelly but my dream bag was Gold. his eyes lit up and said he had one and asked if i had x-ray vision. he took the plastic off the box and there it was in all its glory. my dream bag! i told him that i would take it and that he made me so happy. i didnt even know what was in the other boxes. i also purchased several accessories and home ware thereafter, so i am sure the happiness was mutual.
Thank you so much for sharing them!!
