Sad to leave Paris so soon but enjoying the beautiful French countryside- drove through the forest of Fontainebleau, Burgundy and then followed the River Sloane. Along the Rhone valley to Avignon. Saw the Palace of the Popes and the old bridge that they never quite finished!!!

Ghastly 4.30 start. Great group of people. White cliffs of Dover not so white at the moment due to volcanic ash. Journey through French countryside in great anticipation of arriving in Paris. Totally speechless.....its all so surreal after waiting so long to get here. Actually cried when the Eiffel Tower lit up at night, starting with the glittering fairy lights. Saw all the wonderful sights that Paris is renown for but the Eiffel Tower still holds a specia...

Quiet day today preparing for my trip to Europe......busy with the mundane tasks of washing, packing etc. What a jolt back to earth after my 2 days of luxury.

Two whole days of being treated like a princess......what a lovely gift from my son and his girlfriend ..... I will be totally relaxed for the beginning of my European tour. OHHHHH the luxury.........you should all be green with envy!!!!! Have a room fit for a princess and the spa is to die for........Pampering ++++ in the most magnificent setting. This hotel is to die for...magnificent rooms, impeccable service, spectacular spa...what more can I say......pure...

What better way to see the familiar sights and follow the Monopoly board game that I have played since I was a child. People thought I was crazy but then decided that maybe it was not a bad idea after all.........also got to see some of the new attractions as well as the historical. Monopoly Board here I come- Trafalgar Square, Regent St, Pall Mall, Leicester Square, Victoria station, Northumberland, Piccadilly Circus, etc etc. Also major attractions - Bucking...