Did you notice there was no Editor’s Diary last week? That’s because I was away on holiday, spending autumn in Paris!
And when I say away, I mean properly away. For the first time since COVID, I ventured abroad for a week of sightseeing and escapism.
It was a bit daunting to think about heading off overseas once more. It seems a lifetime since my last holiday abroad, which was my trip to China in 2019.
The destination this time wasn’t quite so far flung. Paris is a place I know well, having visited several times over the years. Which made it the ideal destination for dipping my toes in the travel waters once more.
What made it different this time was that Mr PF Ed and I were accompanied by my sister and our twelve-year-old niece. Neither of them had visited Paris before.
It was wonderful to show them around and see the city afresh through their eyes.
We visited all the sights, such as the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower and Champs Elysees.
We enjoyed a boat trip on the Seine and stared, aghast, at the charred remains of Notre Dame. Hopefully it will soon be restored to its former glory.
We ate in the cafe made famous by the film “Amelie”, admired the artists at work in Montmartre and feasted on croque monsieur washed down by French wine. (Not the twelve-year-old, I hasten to add!)
The trip reminded me that, no matter how much I love my holidays in Scotland, there’s something special about visiting a different country and experiencing its culture.
I’m already planning my next adventure!
Angela Gilchrist I am the former Editor-in-Chief of “The People’s Friend” magazine. My passions include cats, Highland ponies, good books, vegetarian food and long walks in the Scottish countryside. My favourite place to get away from it all is the magical Isle of Skye.
