
I remember so distinctly watching an episode of Friends where Monica is dating a millionaire and he flies her to Italy for dinner. The idea of travelling to another country for a single meal clearly made a lasting impression, because when I was thinking about how to celebrate my best friend’s birthday this year, I just couldn’t shake it. Italy felt too far and with flights too much hassle, but a train to Paris for lunch, and home to sleep in your own bed – surely that could work?