So it was quite the treat when I picked up a family member from Los Angeles International Airport and they greeted me at curbside pickup with a "bonjour" and a surprise box of Laduree macarons.
The macarons are protected by their petite carrier-- a lavender box with silver embellishments, just sturdy enough for a stop through London Heathrow on its way to the west coast, security and all. The truth is, I'm not sure if this particular trip involved a direct flight from Paris, or a connecting flight. But regardless of itinerary, I challenge you to find a more thoughtful gesture than a loved one transporting delicate sweets across international borders. It's never an easy feat!
Each box from Laduree is wrapped like a little gift-- creating a ritual for the lucky recipient. (Who doesn't love the feeling associated with unwrapping a present?) There's an unmatched elegance to it. As much as I love a perfectly executed donut hole or oatmeal chocolate chip cookie, these treats will never outshine the macaron's style-saavy image. And then there's the element of surprise. What flavors will you unwrap this time?
And fear not: If you don't happen to have a relative or friend passing through Paris anytime soon, you can still have a Paris moment in LA by trying this domestic version from Bottega Louie. Even if you only try one, it's worth a stop. After all, two bites of attainable luxury in your everyday life can make all the difference.
