BonjourParis

Place Vendome

The seemingly octagonal-shaped square of Place Vendome is, perhaps, the richest spot on earth next to Dubai.  Famous celebs such as Coco Chanel and Frederic Chopin resided here.  And smack in the center of the square is the Place Vendôme Column, inspired by the Trajan's Column in Rome, built by Napoleon in commemoration of the battle of Austerlitz. The column is worth a look, as is the Hotel Ritz (where Princess Diana was last spotted -- head inside for a hot chocolate or a cocoa) and the other chichi stores on this square where mere mortals cannot afford to shop.