It is quite marvellous how 2 hours on the Eurostar can take one from sitting with the tired-eyed, Monday morning commuters in London, to the lively cosmopolitan city that is Paris.

My usual day of working in an office was transformed into taking leisurely strolls along the Seine, popping into brasseries to top up with camembert and bordeaux, and taking in the rich cultural heritage. I’m pretty sure I also spotted President Hollande surrounded by an imposing envoy on Rue Saint-Jacques…but moving swiftly on!

Recently voted as the second most fashionable city in the world, I got the chance to sample it’s culinary delights (check out Robert et Louise for a superb steak by an open fire) and explore the Musée d’Orsay, home of great works by renowned artists such as Degas, Monet, Sisley, and Van Gogh.

C’était un grand voyage! Now back to the big smoke…