caveat emptor @ zena

Should you visit or move to France please be wary of making large purchases from small shops. This is probably not limited to France - but I can't speculate about other countries. Upon arriving in France, I was bombarded with tasks. I had just started my Masters degree when I finally found an apt....aka...Chambre de Bonne. I chose location over size. I have not guarantees of staying upon graduation. Sure I know I will get a job because I believe in the wise words of Yoda "there is no try only do". Anyway, the bombardement led to my frustration with finding curtains for my new apartment. I visited a store "Zena" on Rue de Tournon and was persuaded to buy an Indian handmade textile for 75 euros. I was told at the time of purchase that I could return the item - in English. When I attempted to return the textile becuase it was not up to snuff...I was arrogantly told no. I can say arrogantly because after living here for 3 months you learn to distinguish between cultural differences and true arrogance. This led to a debate, hurling of insults (not started by me) and so forth. What surprised me was when I said, " Everybody accepts returns," the retort was "I am not everybody I am SOMEBODY. Really I AM SOMEBODY." Really? I quickly corrected the lady that if you need to proclaim you are "Somebody" you are only aspiring to BE Somebody and haven't quite yet arrived. Ok, I had to tell you because its just so funny. After being accused of tarnishing the garment I left with a credit slip in hand. Later a French friend insisted that actually the law requires her to accept a refund. And here are some other pieces of Consumer Law in the European Union (EU) to help you out. Items in store windows must have a price.If paying by credit card "carte bleu" the merchant must inform you in writing or verbally that they do not accept returns or have limitations. All items must have prices attached or displayed (accept in a few rare instances). Merchants must give you a receipt that detials each item you buy. This is important. If you buy vegetables at the vegetable stand - they will give you a print out of the cost per kilogram of every item and exactly what you purchased. If you get your hair done, they will outline the cost of each service provided etc. They are not by law allowed to give you a summary. And all prices must include VAT (Value Added Tax). So buyer beware (caveat emptor)! My suggestion going forward would be to ask merchants to provide their policy in writing. Or if you have any doubt about the purchase, walk away and think about it. You won't have any problems at large stores. But for some reason, as my French friends told me, some French hear an accent and begin to make up rules. I'm sure this happens everywhere. But take care so that you don't lose time or money. And don't worry about me, I am quite happy to provide information to France's consumer affairs to deal with this crappy way of conducting business.