TGV

Admittedly we did have to spend two hours in Gare de Lyon, so we were getting cold by the time train 6585 was announced… but, oh my! it was certainly worth the wait! Our small group of three had a table for four in the quiet zone of the first class section, right at the back of the lower part of a carriage, partitioned off from the rest of the first class area with tinted glass. Leg room, backside room, reclining chairs, and a very quiet, comfortable ride. I can see now why the French take such national pride in their railways: I already knew the trains to be punctual, efficient and considerate having been surprised in the past as connecting trains delayed their departure a few minutes to catch services which were slightly late arriving. But now the French train has become for me a stylish and sophisticated way to travel, with hospitable and warm staff welcoming your custom. The last time I visited Paris I found the atmosphere lived up to some of the stereotypes as we were coldly greeted and offered no help, advice or warmth of hospitality. As I type these words on the train — on which were were offered seats by a human deciding to break the rules and waive any charges, rather than a cog in a machine offering a form of a particular number on which our written complaint could be made — I am happy that these clichés have been trounced… and I don’t just say that because of the luxurious seat!