When speaking of Paris to friends or acquaintances that are familiar with the city, there is a one usually one question that always comes up: Did you visit the Marais? To both visitors and Parisian locals alike, the Marais is one of the most agreed on 'favorite areas' of Paris. Not only does it encompass many historical buildings built by French nobility following Henry IV but it also is one of the trendiest and modern areas of Paris today. Boutiques, galleries, and fashion houses line the avenues approaching the Jewish district of the city that famously sells the "Best Falafel in all of Paris". The surrounding area is known to be one of the best areas for shopping, offering everything from high quality franchise retailers to small boutiques and thrift stores. The sent of fresh lotion and perfume waft out from the Parfumeries and laughter filters out from the small doors of eclectic tea and coffee houses, echoing down the cobblestone lined avenues. The Marais is a young, lively, and beautiful area of town; there is something for everyone here. Including many prestigious gallery spaces, there is also the Museé Carnavalet (free admission), Museé Picasso, the house of Victor Hugo, and the National Archive Museum - the Pompidou is also right outside the border of Marais. Centering yourself in this part of town is easy - I always rely on Saint-Paul, which sits on the main street of Rue de Rivoli, because you can't miss those giant red doors at its entrance.