Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
interesting letters and numbers, but there is a complete absence of anything prefixed with
an 'E'.
It is all of these challenges that conspire against the average British driver who is apt
to become flummoxed at critical moments when navigating safe passage out of Calais. Pic-
ture the scene: hoards of ex-ferry and Channel Tunnel vehicles cram onto the major routes
destined for other climes. Some remember to drive on the right quite soon, others simply
flounder between lanes. Anyone navigating badly, quickly attracts the attention of France's
equivalent of 'the white van man', who has very impressive klaxons. These are considered
essential by French drivers, who believe the use of a single horn of moderate power to be
a sign of a poor upbringing and lack of moral fibre. It's rather like delivering a limp, damp
handshake. So if you've got one of these don't use it.
It was just such a scenario that accompanied us as we moved off from Calais (in thick
fog) and this may have explained why we somehow ended up en route to Bruxelles . Jack
had been grimly circumventing the mobile chicanes of GB stickers with such focused at-
tention that I became convinced he was going to miss our exit road. As any good co-driver
might, I shrieked at him to take the next exit, which he dutifully did. But it was one slip
road too soon. This was not good. It took us nearly half an hour, inching our way back
through the blanket of fog, to connect with our correct junction.
Look. It's bad enough having the dim bint on the SatNav asking me to make a 'U-
turn when possible',” Jack snarled, “without another one screeching incorrect instructions
into my left ear. Next time you have a cunning navigational plan, speak to me about it over
dinner .”
We continued in stony silence for the next two and a half hours until Paris finally ap-
peared on the horizon.
The capital lies in the wealthy, densely populated, Île-de-France region and I love it.
Paris is renowned as being the most romantic city in the world. There are a number of
characteristics that engender this romance, not least of which are the majestic tree-shaded
boulevards laced with invitingly discreet boutiques and cafés. Interspersed amongst these
are the restaurants and night-spots that boast of famous clientele and celebrated rebel-
rousers who have added passion and reputation to its past. These are the places most fre-
quented by those who are determined to see, and be seen. And who could ignore the allure
of the Seine as it glides sensuously between some of the world's most beautiful buildings.
It's a perfect place for both lovers and admirers. But it's not all lovey-dovey flimflam; its
political, business and cultural influences now contribute to its status as one of the world's
major cities. If you've never been, a visit is highly recommended as it is a fabulous city.
But be warned, if you're a nervous driver, take a taxi to show you the sights and combine
it with a rural respite break afterwards.
As we approached, the fog lifted lazily and with it our spirits. Jack was deftly nego-
tiating the vagaries of the périphérique and coping admirably with the occasional holdup
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