After the 13 hours squashed like a sardine into Air France's 777-200 nightmare that lasted for eternity we landed in Paris and I instantly had forgot the previous 13 hours of uncomfortable hell. I was again full of excitement for Paris even if it was grey, cold and winter.  

I had booked a transfer as our bags are loaded with gear for cycling and I couldn't be bothered lugging them on the train into Gare du Nord and then trying to walk to the hotel - is this a sign of age I wonder - take the easy option. We were collected by a friendly Parisian guy - yes friendly and he spoke to us in English without much prompting - was this because our pigeon french was that bad! 

The receptionist was less than friendly when we arrived with all our bags, check in 2pm leave them here and come back.... Oh well there is only one thing to do - we must be like the French and have lunch. We left in search of the typical "Plat de Jour formula" and we found a winner. It was fabulous and full of local people, Rod spotted it, funny I wasn't that fussed from the outside it looked gawdy with pink signs and a big WIFI, anyway the surprise awaited us.  

Magnific, Tres Bien, Delicious - Entree & a main for E13.50, bargin, I had Endive Salad with Jambon & Walnuts, then fish, it was great. Rod had a selection of pates & meats & then the fish, we left with warm and satisfied bellys. We headed back to the hotel in time to check in, we jumped into bed, it was bliss to lie down, we were in Paris again, we drifted into a deep sleep with the distant sound of the metro underneath us.   

 Oui Oui Paris.