Bonjour tout le monde! I have returned from my trip to London and Paris, and I am so happy that I went!!
Ah, the Paris outdoor cafe spaces!
I slept on the plane, and was ready to hit the ground running (speed walking)!
Walking the streets of London.
I knew that it was going to be a great trip when New Song by Howard Jones was playing in the ladies room at the airport. If you were born in the 80’s or before, you will appreciate that!
As soon as I got out of the tube in London, I could not stop smiling. London will always be a part of me, and so will Paris. I immediately asked myself WHY DID I WAIT SO LONG TO RETURN?
Plaid in Green Park
I got to do whatever I felt like doing all day and at night. Don’t get me wrong – I love traveling with family and friends, but I really enjoyed getting to be completely selfish and going with my own flow. Nothing against my amazing travel partners, but there was no way that I could have done at least half of what I did if someone else was with me!
Pierre Herme croissant isphahan
Full disclosure that I met the lovely Emily Johnston of @emilyjanejohnston for a wonderfully enjoyable lunch in Notting Hill on my first day in London, and I did meet up with my friend Wendy in Paris for a drink Sunday night and for lunch and dinner on Monday (her birthday)!
Escargots et Champagne pour le déjeuner
But I spent all of my days alone and every dinner except the last one alone.
Solo dinner a Le Bar à Huîtres in Paris. So many memories there!
My friend asked me if I would now travel regularly alone. The answer is maybe. I am very comfortable in both London and Paris, and, even with the strike and the trains not working, I was able to get around by walking (8-10 miles a day) or taking the bus.
The train actually ran once or twice!
But, if I had a trip planned to Asia or Australia or even somewhere that I have been before like a Caribbean island, I would have postponed unless I was part of a tour group.
And I should add that I am looking into a tour group for a potential trip to Provence for my big birthday this July if V or no friends or family want to go with me.
I am really proud that I did this trip and that I made it all work. It was a big step for me, and I rediscovered travel, which is a part of what completes me as a person
Vin chaud at 11 a.m.
Stay tuned for recaps, stories and some guides of both London and Paris. I have big plans, but I also have a full time job!
The cutest biscuit (cookie) boutique in Notting Hill!
Thank you so much for my parents for the gift of miles, for Rachel and Wendy for getting me to go and for all of you who messaged me, who commented on my Instagram posts and stories and who supported me at different times by wishing me well. It takes just a second to do, but most people do not take the time! Your comments and positivity made my journey even more enjoyable!
Closing down a new favorite restaurant in Paris.
Xxoo, Jen @preppyfrancophile!