Paris trip for Hermes

[papertiger]

Please try to stay on topic. I realise because of the complexity of some of the posts members may veer off but in answer do not 'go there'.

For info and questions on US customs please post on the thread below: post https://forum.purseblog.com/threads/us-customs-discussion-airports-importing.905560/

Detaxing (to US from Europe) https://forum.purseblog.com/threads/best-way-to-detax-after-h-in-europe.178302/

or non-US destinations: https://forum.purseblog.com/threads/does-h-store-paris-wants-to-ship.605014/page-3

For questions relating to prices https://forum.purseblog.com/threads/reference-hermes-current-prices.102567/page-357

For traveling with boxes https://forum.purseblog.com/threads...me-hermes-boxes-when-traveling.1044553/page-5



I will leave this reminder as a sticky because tthis is often a thread that new members (or new Hermès lovers) post on - hopefully temporarily.

 

[Lodpah]

I'm planning a trip to Paris in October this year and would like to know:

1) Do all 3 stores accept Google Pay (tap and pay from phone) or only physical cards?
2) If the bill is paid using cash + credit card (eg; 5000 cash, 5000 card), how does the VAT refund at CDG airport works?

Thank you all!

You will still get your VAT back. The receipt will have the stated amount paid and total VAT so when you go to Global Blue (should be one nearby), I would go immediately and get that processed so that when you get to the airport, you are all registered and all you have to do is follow the prompts and off you go. You can also download Global Blue to keep track of the purchases and the purchases/VAT. It also is quicker to get your money back. That's what I did in Madrid after the Hermes purchase.

 

[lunasauntie]

I'm planning a trip to Paris in October this year and would like to know:

1) Do all 3 stores accept Google Pay (tap and pay from phone) or only physical cards?
2) If the bill is paid using cash + credit card (eg; 5000 cash, 5000 card), how does the VAT refund at CDG airport works?

Thank you all!

Europe doesn’t really accept mobile pay to the extent that the US does and for High amounts, it’s almost always required to use a physical card.

The VAT refund

You will still get your VAT back. The receipt will have the stated amount paid and total VAT so when you go to Global Blue (should be one nearby), I would go immediately and get that processed so that when you get to the airport, you are all registered and all you have to do is follow the prompts and off you go. You can also download Global Blue to keep track of the purchases and the purchases/VAT. It also is quicker to get your money back. That's what I did in Madrid after the Hermes purchase.

There’s no need to go to a separate Global Blue location. The store will provide a form for the buyer and all she has to do is make sure she scans it at the kiosk at the airport before leaving. And also keep your packages in unopened condition in case it gets flagged for inspection by customs. The question was around how will it work - you ultimately decide if you want cash back or back on the card. It’s not faster to go on the card - it can take weeks to a month (although H is generally fast-ish), but you will receive a higher amount back. The fastest way is immediately in cash.

 

[Eternity1908]

Hello All,

I was in Paris over this past weekend celebrating my husband’s birthday. I have 2 separate experiences to share with Hermes visits. I will do 2 separate post, so let’s get started with 1 of 2.

Fortunately I was able to secure an appointment at FSH. It was on Friday in the morning. I had my wishlist ready to go! I arrived on time for my appointment and was taken off to the side to wait on a Leather Associate. She arrived within 5 minutes. She was very nice, but straight to the point. She asked for my Wishlist and I gave her 3 items in the following order: K25 Retourne “true green” as in Bambou or Menthe with Gold Hardware, K25 Retourne Noir with Gold Hardware, or B30 Gold on Gold.

She stated that stock was very low, however she would check - she then asked my husband and I what we would like to drink?

From there, my nerves started revving up a little, wondering if I would be offered anything. While waiting, I just walked around and looked at the jewelry and display bags, trying to keep my mind busy.

About 20 minutes later, she came back with 1 box and clearly stated “I was only able to find and locate you 1 item today - I hope you like it!”

From there, she proceeded to open the box, while I am holding my breath to see what it is, she then pulls out a beautiful green K25 Touch. I was speechless and in Awe! I loved the color and the touch added that additional hint of personality to the bag. I was excited and nervous the same time. I inquired about color, which was Menthe with Permabrass Hardware and Lizard Touch. Very beautiful bag - now the next thing was the price, as I had not researched the price of “touch bags” in Paris - so was a little nervous on what that was going to come back as - but once she said price, it wasn’t as bad as I thought!

I proceeded to look at the bag, while smiling ear to ear and politely said I would take it!

I then inquired about other bags, in which she was very nice and patient with me. Since where I live in the US, I don’t have access to a local Hermes, so I was very inquisitive to see other bags. I requested to see an Evelyne TPM, Gata, In the Loop and Constance To Go Wallet.

From those request, I was able to see all but the Constance to go. I did add an Evelyne TPM Barenia Fauborg with Gold Hardware to my purchase .

I liked the Gata and was super cute, but passed as my next request will be a Constance. I would consider the Gata a casual version of the Constance. The in the loop was cute, but I was not comfortable that it was secure enough around my waist. There were multiple color options for both Gata and In the loop.

From there, I wanted to see shoes, however I am a 39 and most were sold out. I was primarily looking for Orans and Tennis Shoes. Unfortunately, I was not able to purchase any shoes due to low stock.

Overall, the visit was very positive. A few observations - the store did not seem to be as crowded as it was prior to pandemic. The main 2 areas that were busy were shoes and the main floor by SLG’s and appointment request. The team seemed to be very firm on no walk-in leather appointments and there were continuous request while I was there!

I am super excited about my new K25 and hope you enjoy the H journey story

 

[Eternity1908]

Continuation- Story 2 of 2 -

I had never really processed going to the Hermes at CDG Airport on my way home, as we are always tight on time! However, I told my husband, we were going to leave early so we could do a little shopping prior to heading back to the US!

Our flight was at 10:30 am so I wanted to be at airport around 6:30 so we could check in and do VAT Refund and go through security!

Once all that was done it was about 8:05 am and Hermes was Open. Please note I had to make special request with security as the main Hermes was not at the gate area we were leaving out of, but it was okay - we would just have to do security twice!


Upon entering the store, a very very nice SA greeted me. I immediately saw a pair of shoes that I wanted at FSH, but they didn’t have my size - luckily the display was my size of the Elda, so I immediately told her I wanted it.

I then proceeded to ask about Oran’s and she was very nice and opened the closet with the size 39 Oran’s but sadly no colors I wanted, but was still happy to seem some selection.

I then asked about a Menthe Calvi and there were none in that color.

From there, I asked about Evelyne TPM with pop of color, red, pink, blue, yellow - just something with a pop. She was very nice and brought out navy, a brown/red and etain, non I was interested in.

She then asked, what about other small bags - I said Yes, what do you have - she said 24/24 and Roulis - again, good bags, but none I was interested in!

Now, she then said, what about Picotin - I said that bag is very popular, I just don’t know if for me - so she said let’s try! She offered a 1. gold, 2. black and 3. Blue France Picotin 18. I loved loved loved the Blue France with Gold Hardware as it was a beautiful bag, however the 18 was to tiny for me with style and no strap.

Overall, I loved loved loved this quick 45 minute experience and was super amazed at the kindness and friendliness, with the selection at airport. It was a very pleasant surprise and great end to my trip!

At my gate Area M, there was a smaller Hermes and I was tight tight on time, needing to board, but quickly walked in. Smaller store, not much out - however, a customer did walk out with a larger bag that could be presumed as a B or K based on size of bag and his large smile, but not sure. I did not ask for anything in this store, however, as I was walking out, a customer walked in and specifically asked for a bag and the SA said only what’s out!

Overall, I wrote this to say that if you fly out of CDG Airport, please factor in time to visit both stores if your are leaving through terminal 2 A-E. If you are kind and pleasant, you never know what you will be offered I also think that early morning helped with stock availability as well!

This end my 2 of 2 stories! I had a great time in Paris and am very thankful to leave with something special from my earlier post!

 

[mamakay]

Con

Hello All,

I was in Paris over this past weekend celebrating my husband’s birthday. I have 2 separate experiences to share with Hermes visits. I will do 2 separate post, so let’s get started with 1 of 2.

Fortunately I was able to secure an appointment at FSH. It was on Friday in the morning. I had my wishlist ready to go! I arrived on time for my appointment and was taken off to the side to wait on a Leather Associate. She arrived within 5 minutes. She was very nice, but straight to the point. She asked for my Wishlist and I gave her 3 items in the following order: K25 Retourne “true green” as in Bambou or Menthe with Gold Hardware, K25 Retourne Noir with Gold Hardware, or B30 Gold on Gold.

She stated that stock was very low, however she would check - she then asked my husband and I what we would like to drink?

From there, my nerves started revving up a little, wondering if I would be offered anything. While waiting, I just walked around and looked at the jewelry and display bags, trying to keep my mind busy.

About 20 minutes later, she came back with 1 box and clearly stated “I was only able to find and locate you 1 item today - I hope you like it!”

From there, she proceeded to open the box, while I am holding my breath to see what it is, she then pulls out a beautiful green K25 Touch. I was speechless and in Awe! I loved the color and the touch added that additional hint of personality to the bag. I was excited and nervous the same time. I inquired about color, which was Menthe with Permabrass Hardware and Lizard Touch. Very beautiful bag - now the next thing was the price, as I had not researched the price of “touch bags” in Paris - so was a little nervous on what that was going to come back as - but once she said price, it wasn’t as bad as I thought!

I proceeded to look at the bag, while smiling ear to ear and politely said I would take it!

I then inquired about other bags, in which she was very nice and patient with me. Since where I live in the US, I don’t have access to a local Hermes, so I was very inquisitive to see other bags. I requested to see an Evelyne TPM, Gata, In the Loop and Constance To Go Wallet.

From those request, I was able to see all but the Constance to go. I did add an Evelyne TPM Barenia Fauborg with Gold Hardware to my purchase .

I liked the Gata and was super cute, but passed as my next request will be a Constance. I would consider the Gata a casual version of the Constance. The in the loop was cute, but I was not comfortable that it was secure enough around my waist. There were multiple color options for both Gata and In the loop.

From there, I wanted to see shoes, however I am a 39 and most were sold out. I was primarily looking for Orans and Tennis Shoes. Unfortunately, I was not able to purchase any shoes due to low stock.

Overall, the visit was very positive. A few observations - the store did not seem to be as crowded as it was prior to pandemic. The main 2 areas that were busy were shoes and the main floor by SLG’s and appointment request. The team seemed to be very firm on no walk-in leather appointments and there were continuous request while I was there!

I am super excited about my new K25 and hope you enjoy the H journey story

Congratulations!!! So beautiful. Did you select any H stores or just FSH for your lottery selection?

 

[shermes]

Hello All,

I was in Paris over this past weekend celebrating my husband’s birthday. I have 2 separate experiences to share with Hermes visits. I will do 2 separate post, so let’s get started with 1 of 2.

Fortunately I was able to secure an appointment at FSH. It was on Friday in the morning. I had my wishlist ready to go! I arrived on time for my appointment and was taken off to the side to wait on a Leather Associate. She arrived within 5 minutes. She was very nice, but straight to the point. She asked for my Wishlist and I gave her 3 items in the following order: K25 Retourne “true green” as in Bambou or Menthe with Gold Hardware, K25 Retourne Noir with Gold Hardware, or B30 Gold on Gold.

She stated that stock was very low, however she would check - she then asked my husband and I what we would like to drink?

From there, my nerves started revving up a little, wondering if I would be offered anything. While waiting, I just walked around and looked at the jewelry and display bags, trying to keep my mind busy.

About 20 minutes later, she came back with 1 box and clearly stated “I was only able to find and locate you 1 item today - I hope you like it!”

From there, she proceeded to open the box, while I am holding my breath to see what it is, she then pulls out a beautiful green K25 Touch. I was speechless and in Awe! I loved the color and the touch added that additional hint of personality to the bag. I was excited and nervous the same time. I inquired about color, which was Menthe with Permabrass Hardware and Lizard Touch. Very beautiful bag - now the next thing was the price, as I had not researched the price of “touch bags” in Paris - so was a little nervous on what that was going to come back as - but once she said price, it wasn’t as bad as I thought!

I proceeded to look at the bag, while smiling ear to ear and politely said I would take it!

I then inquired about other bags, in which she was very nice and patient with me. Since where I live in the US, I don’t have access to a local Hermes, so I was very inquisitive to see other bags. I requested to see an Evelyne TPM, Gata, In the Loop and Constance To Go Wallet.

From those request, I was able to see all but the Constance to go. I did add an Evelyne TPM Barenia Fauborg with Gold Hardware to my purchase .

I liked the Gata and was super cute, but passed as my next request will be a Constance. I would consider the Gata a casual version of the Constance. The in the loop was cute, but I was not comfortable that it was secure enough around my waist. There were multiple color options for both Gata and In the loop.

From there, I wanted to see shoes, however I am a 39 and most were sold out. I was primarily looking for Orans and Tennis Shoes. Unfortunately, I was not able to purchase any shoes due to low stock.

Overall, the visit was very positive. A few observations - the store did not seem to be as crowded as it was prior to pandemic. The main 2 areas that were busy were shoes and the main floor by SLG’s and appointment request. The team seemed to be very firm on no walk-in leather appointments and there were continuous request while I was there!

I am super excited about my new K25 and hope you enjoy the H journey story

Loved this story, stunning bag and hope you find a matching Calvi!

 

[Eternity1908]

Con

Congratulations!!! So beautiful. Did you select any H stores or just FSH for your lottery selection?

Thank you - I was fortunate enough to schedule an appointment prior to my visit. This was through a friend of a friend.

 

[Lodpah]

Europe doesn’t really accept mobile pay to the extent that the US does and for High amounts, it’s almost always required to use a physical card.

The VAT refund

There’s no need to go to a separate Global Blue location. The store will provide a form for the buyer and all she has to do is make sure she scans it at the kiosk at the airport before leaving. And also keep your packages in unopened condition in case it gets flagged for inspection by customs. The question was around how will it work - you ultimately decide if you want cash back or back on the card. It’s not faster to go on the card - it can take weeks to a month (although H is generally fast-ish), but you will receive a higher amount back. The fastest way is immediately in cash.

That’s interesting to know. After paying for my purchase at Hermes, they did the Global Blue paperwork and told me to go around the corner to the Global Blue office. The office certified it and at the airport we just breezed through.

 

[Ruedubac]

Europe doesn’t really accept mobile pay to the extent that the US does and for High amounts, it’s almost always required to use a physical card.

The VAT refund

There’s no need to go to a separate Global Blue location. The store will provide a form for the buyer and all she has to do is make sure she scans it at the kiosk at the airport before leaving. And also keep your packages in unopened condition in case it gets flagged for inspection by customs. The question was around how will it work - you ultimately decide if you want cash back or back on the card. It’s not faster to go on the card - it can take weeks to a month (although H is generally fast-ish), but you will receive a higher amount back. The fastest way is immediately in cash.

Hello,
My sisters are visiting Paris soon.
Since they will be getting detax. can you help verify the following?
1. In the past, they bring their big ticket items (Incase the machine asked them to show items to the custom officers for them to stamp paperwork) so, the items need to be with them (not in check in luggage).
2. That was a few years ago. Is it true the kiosk to scan the detax paperwork as well as to show the items are BOTH BEFORE they go into the passengers area to board the plane? i.e. If I go to the airport with them (I am not leaving Paris), I can guide them on where to go for the Kiosk as well as to help them show items to officer?
**********
Just wondering as they are both not frequent travelers (also much older, not French/English speakers either). So, I feel safer guiding them through as I used to do that on behalf of them when I travel with them.. But now, I am staying in Paris while they fly back to Canada.
Any tips?

Thank you.

 

[Book Worm]

Hello,
My sisters are visiting Paris soon.
Since they will be getting detax. can you help verify the following?
1. In the past, they bring their big ticket items (Incase the machine asked them to show items to the custom officers for them to stamp paperwork) so, the items need to be with them (not in check in luggage).
2. That was a few years ago. Is it true the kiosk to scan the detax paperwork as well as to show the items are BOTH BEFORE they go into the passengers area to board the plane? i.e. If I go to the airport with them (I am not leaving Paris), I can guide them on where to go for the Kiosk as well as to help them show items to officer?
**********
Just wondering as they are both not frequent travelers (also much older, not French/English speakers either). So, I feel safer guiding them through as I used to do that on behalf of them when I travel with them.. But now, I am staying in Paris while they fly back to Canada.
Any tips?

Thank you.

I have had a very bad experience checking in my really expensive items (not H related).
I would highly recommend you keep them in your carry on or someplace close to you instead of check-in.
Good luck

 

[Red J]

Hello,
My sisters are visiting Paris soon.
Since they will be getting detax. can you help verify the following?
1. In the past, they bring their big ticket items (Incase the machine asked them to show items to the custom officers for them to stamp paperwork) so, the items need to be with them (not in check in luggage).
2. That was a few years ago. Is it true the kiosk to scan the detax paperwork as well as to show the items are BOTH BEFORE they go into the passengers area to board the plane? i.e. If I go to the airport with them (I am not leaving Paris), I can guide them on where to go for the Kiosk as well as to help them show items to officer?
**********
Just wondering as they are both not frequent travelers (also much older, not French/English speakers either). So, I feel safer guiding them through as I used to do that on behalf of them when I travel with them.. But now, I am staying in Paris while they fly back to Canada.
Any tips?

Thank you.

Hi, you are correct on both counts. The kiosks/tax refund window is near the entrance of the terminal on the same level as the airline check in counters, and your sisters should have their purchased items available to show the official at the desk for the tax refund (in unused condition) with them. A woman in line next to me had already checked her bags with her purchases in them and she was absolutely beside herself that the customs official refused to stamp her tax refund form because she didn't have the listed items to show him.

What I learned is that while the instructions on the form say you need to present your international ticket (which in this day and age most people don't get until they've checked in) the customs official WILL accept your flight confirmation or itinerary as proof of international travel. I processed my tax paperwork and did my show and tell for the officials first, and then went to check my bags. You can also check bags first as long as you're carrying on all your detax purchases. Unfortunately the woman next to me didn't do either and (literally) paid the price.

 

[Ruedubac]

Hi, you are correct on both counts. The kiosks/tax refund window is near the entrance of the terminal on the same level as the airline check in counters, and your sisters should have their purchased items available to show the official at the desk for the tax refund (in unused condition) with them. A woman in line next to me had already checked her bags with her purchases in them and she was absolutely beside herself that the customs official refused to stamp her tax refund form because she didn't have the listed items to show him.

What I learned is that while the instructions on the form say you need to present your international ticket (which in this day and age most people don't get until they've checked in) the customs official WILL accept your flight confirmation or itinerary as proof of international travel. I processed my tax paperwork and did my show and tell for the officials first, and then went to check my bags. You can also check bags first as long as you're carrying on all your detax purchases. Unfortunately the woman next to me didn't do either and (literally) paid the price.

Hi Red J,
Thank you so much.
So, a non-passenger (who is not flying with my sisters) can accompany them in BOTH detax Kiosk as well as 'show and tell' custom counter?
as I would love to be there for them as they have never really traveled without me before..but this time, they are flying back to Canada on their own without me as I will be staying in France.

I really appreciate your tips.

 

[Princess P]

Europe doesn’t really accept mobile pay to the extent that the US does and for High amounts, it’s almost always required to use a physical card.

The VAT refund

There’s no need to go to a separate Global Blue location. The store will provide a form for the buyer and all she has to do is make sure she scans it at the kiosk at the airport before leaving. And also keep your packages in unopened condition in case it gets flagged for inspection by customs. The question was around how will it work - you ultimately decide if you want cash back or back on the card. It’s not faster to go on the card - it can take weeks to a month (although H is generally fast-ish), but you will receive a higher amount back. The fastest way is immediately in cash.

Thanks for the heads-up on the usage of physical card. Guess it will be safer to bring it along for the trip.

I've heard of horror stories of people not getting their VAT refund back in their card even after months of waiting, hence was wondering if I should go for cash refund instead even though it's of lower % compared to card. Shall decide after totaling all the spending before going to the airport.

 

[Red J]

Hi Red J,
Thank you so much.
So, a non-passenger (who is not flying with my sisters) can accompany them in BOTH detax Kiosk as well as 'show and tell' custom counter?
as I would love to be there for them as they have never really traveled without me before..but this time, they are flying back to Canada on their own without me as I will be staying in France.

I really appreciate your tips.

Theoretically, yes (and the detax kiosks and customs counter are right next to each other), but there is one potential roadblock to you accompanying them into the airport: due to the airport's COVID guidelines when I was there back in October you had to show your airplane ticket at the door just to enter the terminal. If that guideline is still being enforced you may not be allowed to go inside at all. Hopefully someone who has travelled from Paris more recently can weigh in here as to whether this is still the case. Either way you'll want to check on what airport protocols are in place closer to the time of their visit.

 

[ouicestmoi]

Hi Red J,
Thank you so much.
So, a non-passenger (who is not flying with my sisters) can accompany them in BOTH detax Kiosk as well as 'show and tell' custom counter?
as I would love to be there for them as they have never really traveled without me before..but this time, they are flying back to Canada on their own without me as I will be staying in France.

I really appreciate your tips.

The detax kiosks at CDG are located next to the customs counter. A non-passenger can accompany them to this area without issue.