To those we've met so far.

So the first part of our journey is nearly over. Today we head towards Switzerland and plan to stop at Lac D'Orient a couple of hours down the road. There's a lake and canal and free parking for the van so we plan to picnic and explore 'til evening, then I will drive so we are within striking distance of Geneva for the morning.

Yesterday we hit 'Gay Paris' and went local for the day. Following some advice gained on camp, we parked the van and bought our day passes for the trains. The queue for tickets was massive, but as we knew what we needed we just went on an automatic machine and were sat on a train heading to the centre within 5 mins. 45 minutes later we emerged from the Metro gloom to Paris sunshine at Charles De Gaulle Etoile station, right next to L'Arc de Triomphe. We then wandered down to the Eiffel tower, about 15 minutes away.

Unfortunately, everyone else in Paris had the same plan and the queue was 4 hours long at least. As Harry was the keenest to go up the tower, he was given the choice to wait or go. It was a no-brainer as far as he is concerned, he hates waiting, so we took plenty of pics, stood under it and hit plan B.

We got river bus passes and made our way leisurely back along the Seine, taking in all the sights, the French Parliament, the Louvre, Notre Dame and the botanical gardens. It was a lovely trip and we all really enjoyed it.

We ended our trip by walking to the Gare de Lyon to board a train back to the van. It made the kids day because they recognised a restaurant in the station used by Mr Bean in one of his movies.

All in all our Paris section of the tour has been a fantastic start, thanks to the kindness and friendliness of the French people we have met (unusual for a Brit to say that maybe but true) and to Mr Disney and his crew for some memories we will carry forever. More importantly are the other people we have met so far at the site that have made it such a pleasure and make it just a bit sad to leave.

Dutchman Bob, his wife Agnes and their three gorgeous girls. Always smiling and having a laugh.

Cath, Sean and Zara from Swindon who we shared an evening and too much wine! Lol

Our friend Simon the photographer from Fulham and his son Andoni, who we shared many a chat and cold beer. Andoni also made a friend for life when he shared his bike with Jack. I'm sure we will meet again sometime, either at home or overseas.

Mike and Pam, our seasoned traveller neighbours. Friendly and kindly souls who have shared so much info and knowledge. Their passion for travel has inspired us for the future and we wish you well on all of your exciting trips.

And lastly but my no means least, our exceptional hosts Stephanie and Olivier who are the hardest working campsite owners we have ever met. Despite the long hours and constant demands, always willing to help, advise, translate, share and serve. And all with a smile or a laugh. Never a shrug or an eye roll. Thank you for fantastic stay. We will be back and we will recommend you and your beautiful site to everyone we can.

So the moral of this blog is, it's not the points on the map that make a trip, it's the people and things that happen along the way that make it special.

Chris