Heading to Paris this year? A stop at Ladurée, the legendary French patisserie, is an absolute must on the traveler's itinerary, and 2012 is extra special. It’s been 150 years since Ladurée first opened its doors and they'll be feting this big anniversary throughout the year with events and a special macaron flavor: the Incroyables, which pays tribute to the very first macaron Ladurée ever made. There will also be a special birthday cake every month of 2012.
The original shop is situated at 16 Rue Royale in the 8th arrondissement; other stores can be found in Saint-Germain (21 rue Bonaparte), the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, in the Printemps department store, and at CDG airport.
It’s thanks to Ladurée that the macaron has become a symbol of chic style, even haute couture. It’s the must-have accessory for every trendy dinner party, the showpiece of films like Sofia Coppola’s “Marie Antoinette.” And at 1.50 euros a piece, the macaron allows for the democratization of luxury.
Every day the luxury brand produces between 20,000 and 30,000 macarons for the French market alone. In less than seven years, it’s expanded into 15 different countries, bringing the French art de vivre to all corners of the globe. Ladurée has also launched a collection of beauty products, candles, and perfumes. For more information: www.laduree.fr
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