As I sit in the Westjet Salon lounge at gate C83 at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris, I am reflecting on some trip highlights. 

For me the most significant was my travel companions. A lovely hand-picked collection of friends and family who joined together with me. We offered each other support and kindness. Mostly I will remember the laughter. What fun we had!!!  

The two hotels we stayed in were comfortable and quaint. Centrally located and easily found. We shared spaces and enjoyed the walk ups. 

Mostly due to dietary restrictions I ate from grocery store purchases. We pooled our money in a kitty and purchased cheese, olives, fruit and wine.  It worked well. We shared cabs and walked many kilometres in the heat and bright sun seeking shade when we could. 

Few days in Paris getting familiar with the city sights and boat tours, hop on bus, evening river cruise, the sight of the sparkling Eiffel Tower. Market shopping with careful search for least expensive rose, white wine or sparkling French type Prosecco. Comte cheese and baby tomatoes. 

The Toulousers road trip, singing, driving, eating and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea. 

Our lovely hard working tour guide (CEO) Francoise was so helpful and always available to find washrooms and assistance with busses and little tourist trains, finding information centres and delicious food. 

The Taste of Toulouse food tour was extraordinary and delicious. Easy to understand with lots of samples to share- wine, cheese, olives, bread, charcuterie. Lovely introduction to local cuisine. 

The special access for Westjet gold status members to the airport lounge is really nice. It’s a perk that only I got to enjoy in our group today. Quiet, spacious and lovely. Breakfast was offered initially with gluten free baguettes 

For now I am signing off until my next travel adventure 

Bon soir.