Paris.

 I watched the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics and was greatly impressed with its spectacular beauty. Despite the applauding weather - which didn't dampen the spirit, Paris was seen in all its glory. I first went there in the autumn of 1964 and was struck by just how magnificent it is. I then had a girlfriend and lived there for a number of months with her. She was an art student at the Sorbonne. It's easy to mock the French - for their apparent insouciance - but they are essentially on parade, like the flaneur. They want to look and be looked at in return - Paris is a showcase - so enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. So let's hope the games can be enjoyed and we can win a number of gold medals - bon voyage.