Observations to compare with life in East Sheen and Mortlake.

Notre Dame – of course first for a visit on any list. On 15 April 2019 the Cathedral suffered a fire which destroyed its roof and spire and damaged windows and vaulted ceilings. It reopened on 7 December 2024.

By comparison Hammersmith Bridge has been closed for seven years and there is still no sign of recovery.

One is of course a national icon and world famous. But the other is a major structure linking important parts of the capital city of London.

60,000 steps walked on the streets of Paris. And not so much as one stumble on the pavement. Leave Mortlake Station and immediately a trip?

Paris youth still smoke a lot on the banks of the Seine with few vapes obvious. Far more than seems to be the case in London.

Partying in the streets below my hotel in the Marais at 4am – a great vibe – but it would certainly not go down well in ESM – and perhaps not in many parts of London!