With the possible exception of the weather (drizzling –very unhelpful for photos) Paris was the delight I had always envisioned. After a session of meetings at the NZ Embassy we headed out to take in the sights. Sacre Ceour was breath taking, NotreDame, awe inspiring and the Eifel Tower bigger than I expected. Sipping a glass of Reisling on the Champs Elysees in fantastic company had been on many hit lists so we ticked that off as well. Coffee and croissants for breakfast – I could get used to this!!
We left all too soon – on a train bound for Genevre. It seem that we have become inured to the privileges being thrown in our path – not an eyelid was batted as we were swept into the WTO headquarters for a day of high level meetings with multi national trade negotiaters and ambassadors.
Here I was entirely in my element. Along with NSW Scholar, Mark Swift, we were allowed free rein on all the burning questions surrounding CAP reform, Doha round, FTAs, and even some good natured Tasman trade issues (apples, anyone?) They two of us could have stayed on for a week but were dragged out like reluctant pups!!
Winery tours, farm visits, breweries, cheese makers, rugby, long dinners – more food or wine anyone – life as a Nuffield Scholar is SUCH a hardship!!!
We are all leaving France with heavy hearts (and expanded waistlines). We have been swept away with the joie de vie, the social grace and easy company of our hosts.
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