clothing & shoes for travelling in the basque country &paris

My family will be visiting the Basque country and Paris this July and August. What clothing and shoes should be packed for a woman and a man? Can%26#39;t decide if I should pack flip flops, tennis shoes and a good pair of walking sandals. Any suggestions for the brand of shoes would be appreciated. What attire is appropriate for churches?

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As far as clothing goes, the Pays Basque, shorts are acceptable when on the beach, or at beach side restaurant, but like Paris, long pants will get you better service at better restaurants and a little more respect.

You can dress casually if attending mass, or just visiting a church.

A good pair of sandals are far better than flip-flops. Tennis shoes are fine, but if you are going to do a lot of walking, in warm weather (in the Basque country) and on hot pavement (Paris), then a good pair of walking shoes are highly recommended. Since you will be in the Pays Basque and Paris in July, during the July sales, I recommend you consider buying a good pair, or two, of Mephisto shoe, one of the best walking shoes made. They make sandals as well as excellent casual shoes. A typical pair in the States (Nordstrom’s carries them), sales for around $350/pair, but they are often 1/2 that price in the stores in Paris, Biarritz and Madrid.

I also suggest you take a look at Maribel%26#39;s Guide to the Pays Basque. You should find in very helpful in planning your visit. The download is still free.

http://mariblesguide.com

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Thanks for your response. We are also concerned about the weather. I understand it could rain. But will it be muggy and therefore, summer clothes are appropriate - sleeveless shirts and capris for women? My husband was considering taking khaki shorts and polo shirts but now is uncertain after reading your response.

Great tip about the shoes and the bargains that wait us.

Thanks again.

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I really don%26#39;t consider the coastal weather to every be %26quot;muggy%26quot;. It%26#39;s more like the weather you%26#39;d find between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. It can, and often does, get muggy inland, around Lourdes, but not out on the Basque coast. You can expect it to be windy. It’s one of the reasons they have some great surf along the coast in the summertime.

I wear shorts most of the time when we%26#39;re in the Pays Basque, but always put on long pants when we head out for lunch or dinner, if we are not dining at a restaurant on the coast. I guess it%26#39;s mostly a matter of respect for the traditional culture, but it%26#39;s also something I grew up with.

Remember, shorts for men are fine if it%26#39;s really hot, which I expect it to be again this summer. A lot of Parisians wear them when in Biarrtiz. Tell your husband not to worry.

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