Being from Australia I still cannot get my head around the fact that I can jump on a train in London and arrive smack bang in the middle of Paris a few hours later.

Eurostar has this  incredibly cheap Eurostar Snap Deal where you choose your dates and they provide a train time 24 hours before travel. I was finishing up a work contract and had some time mid week so thought I would jump aboard and see what all the fuss is about.

I had already been to Paris before and was really not feeling the touristy stuff so I did some research and found some fun things to do by myself. I had such a great time that I wanted to share them with everyone.

Dinner at Les Frigos Art Space – Wow probably my fav travel experience ever. An intimate French dinner hosted by Emilie who grew up inside the Frigos de Paris (an ex refrigerated rail depot.) This space is now inhabited by a number of artists who you get to meet before sitting down to a 4 course dinner and some beautiful French wine with fellow travelers. The thing I loved about this dinner was how varied everyone was in age and it gave me a chance to meet some really interesting people.

 Parc des Buttes-Chaumont – this park is incredible and so serene. I found it to be full of surprises including waterfalls, ruins and colourful gardens. I sat here for a good few hours, wrote in my journal and enjoyed the sun. There is also a really incredible local bakery just across the road where you can get food for a picnic.

Bike Le Marais & Canal –  Spend the day riding around in a small group of 4 discovering hidden gardens all over Paris. You finish the tour in a super hipster area for a glass of wine.

Air B’n’B meet-ups –  most nights in Paris Air B’n’B organised meet-ups at different bars and restaurants for travelers.  These are great for making some new friends to explore different areas with.

Paris isn’t just a place for honeymooners and romantics. There are so many amazing alternative things to do there. Keep an eye out for Eurostar Deals and get exploring.