But it was lovely to be back in Paris. The start of our trip had been marred by the loss of the suitcases, so it was much nicer being in the city with all our possessions. Our time in Paris in September was a re-run of what we tried to do in August, but with the comfort of changes of clothing, with venues being open and with none of the long queues we had seen in August.
We strolled into the Petit Palais art gallery without a wait. Andrew did manage to "mis-hear" the security guard checking if he had “keys” in his pockets before we went through the metal scanner. Andrew simply said “New Zealand” and the guard looked a little bemused. I’m not sure what Andrew thought the question was, to give that answer.

We went back to La Grande Epicerie which had been closed on the one day we visited in August. Having had our fill of looking at gourmet food and wine we did as (some) of the locals do and had a long lunch, sitting outside a random neighbourhood bistro, watching the world go by.
And that evening we got to visit again our old favourite restaurant Les Papilles, which had been closed for summer holidays in August. I think Andrew has told every single person we know who goes to Paris to visit there. And it did not disappoint. Delicious from start to finish.

We’ll probably be back next time we are in Paris.