Exclusive to the Alsace region in northeastern France near Strasbourg is this Strisselspalt hop.  It's a unique variety of hop that gives beer an unrivaled aroma and a superior taste.  It is considerred by many to be the caviar of hops and is what France uses to make it's popular Kronenbourg 1864 beer.

Renting bicycles in Paris, France

These bicycles known as Vélib's are used all over Paris. The word vélib is a contraction of vélo for bike and liberté which stands for bicycle freedom.  They are cheap to rent and you can see people riding them everywhere.  There are actually four times as many bike stations in Paris as metro stations. Amazing!  It's really simple too...  you rent it, ride it and then return it to any station.  It's a great way to get around!!