Well, things took a surprising turn just a few days ago, when I got an email from a company which offers assistance to other companies exibiting around the world.
Philippe from EIE Global wondered if there was anything his company could do to help me with my challenges. He explained that his company specialised in solving problems and overcoming challenges, and suggested that they may be able to help me with some of the challenges I will face in the coming months.
Of course I was interested, and wrote back saying so. We spoke a couple of times, and Philippe suggested that we could possibly meet in Paris, and his company would cover the train cost. Would I be able to come over?
“Hmmm, let me think…” I thought to myself. “A free trip to Paris, and I can complete my Eiffel Tower goal on the same trip!” Heck yes, when do I set off?
It’s just over two hours from London to Paris on the EuroStar, and I arrived on ThUrsday afternoon, and had a long chat with Philippe, who kindly offered me accomodation for the evening too. He Lives in Fontainebleau, which is a beautiful place. We went out for dinner with a few of his staff, and stopped to take a quick picture outside the amazing Chateau de Fontainebleau.
In the picture: Philippe, Ian, Philippe, Laura, Vincent.
Yesterday morning at 10 am I was at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, at the place I had specified a day or two earlier on the blog, with Philippe, and met Emmanuel too, who came along to join us to climb the tower.
It was a bit rainy, but we decided we would still climb the staps as planeed, and off we went. You can only climb so far, then have to queue for the lift to the top. The views of Paris were magnificent.
It was very strange really, as this was the first time I had ever been there, but it all sort of seemed so familiar. I guess I have seen it in movies and pictures so many times before.
So, much earlier than expected, Goal Number 6 completed, all thenks to my new best friends at EIE Global! And thanks too to Philippe and Emmanuel for joining me and making it a great day.