UNSEEN TRAVEL AGENCY

W e arrived at the Paris train station on Monday afternoon. Emma, a wonderful lady my mother had met in Australia, met us at the train station and took us to stay at her place. It was very nice of her and she was a great host. Normally I am not the type of person to stay with someone I barely know but I am glad we did as we ended up getting a guided tour of the city…and a free bed.Tuesday Emma worked so Jon and I went to the Eiffel Tower then took a boat tour and saw some sites. Sucker Punching Hobo in Paris Later that night we were looking for a place to have a beer and food. We found a dirty kebab place and ordered. Inside there were 2 older drunk homeless guys arguing. Another customer pushed one then the owner kicked the drunks out. As Jon and I left the restaurant I got a cheap shot to the face by one of the drunks. I think he was waiting outside for the other customer and smoked me instead. It was very odd yet funny. I pushed him and he fell over a sign. people inside c...

Visiting Château de Cormatin is as postcard perfect as a film set. With its well-kept gardens and an imposing grand exterior that will captivate you at first sight, this is truly one of the most beautiful châteaus in Burgundy. I visited the 17th century masterpiece on a recent visit to Burgundy to learn why this family-run restored mansion is a must visit when travelling through the South of Burgundy. Visiting Château de Cormatin in Southern Burgundy The château is located a short drive between both Tournus and Cluny in the heart of South Burgundy. The 17th century masterpiece has been restored by a family who had ambitions to purchase, restore and open to the public a château and tell its’ story, whilst also living on the grounds for daily operations. The family did so well out of the newfound business that in fact, they have now purchased and redone a second château in France – talk about living the dream! Cormatin was originally built by Marquis d’Huxelles and ...

These are the places that taught me to always take the road unsigned and to always peek around the door uninvited. In Paris there are a million surprises to be found through secret passageways and it is the inquisitive amongst us that uncover these quiet nooks and crannies. So be adventurous and be bold and Paris will constantly reward you with its hidden treasures. Alternatively follow this guide as we share the top secret spots in Paris with you. Hôtel de Sully Just off one of the paths around Place de Vosges, you might just spy a secret door which I beg you to take. Pass through the door and down a couple of steps and you’ll arrive at the magnificent Hôtel de Sully, a private mansion surrounded by a tidy lawn with boxwood hedges and a wall entirely covered with green climbing ivy. Place Dauphine The incredibly beautiful and tranquil Place Dauphine is situated on Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris. The triangular shaped public space is lined with quintessential Parisian shop...