Wat Thammapatip, the unusual pagoda for an immersion in Thailand less than 1 hour from Paris

Pack your suitcases (well, your rucksack), don't forget your tickets (your Navigo pass): welcome to the Paris-Bangkok flight or rather, the RER D line, heading for Seine-et-Marne for a little getaway with family, friends, lovers or even solo. Everyone gets off at Lieusaint-Moissy station, then it's just a 15-minute walk to Wat Thammapatip, one of the most unusual spots in the department. By car, allow around an hour to get here, bearing in mind that there's plenty of (free) parking.

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Travel to Thailand in just 1 hour from Paris: that's the promise made by Wat Thammapatip, the pagoda that seems to have arrived straight from South-East Asia at Château de Luny, in the heart of Seine-et-Marne. With its thousand and one gilded Buddha statues, green alleys, gardens and Buddhist temple, there's no doubt about the atmosphere. And it makes no difference whether you're a Buddhist or not: the temple is open to all (all year round, Saturdays and Sundays only), free of charge and without reservation. You can even explore the temple, located in the Château de Luny, as long as you remove your shoes (and respect the requested silence).

In fine weather, the tables and large lawns are more than ideal for a picnic: in winter, a covered dining area is available. For lunch, there's no fuss: the Thai street food festival offers all its dishes at the same price: €6 for pad thai, beef steak with sticky rice, phô, traditional fried chicken wings, egg rolls... All you have to do is stand in line to exchange your cash or luncheon vouchers (please note: no credit cards are accepted) for "food" or "drink" coupons (€2), then line up in front of the stand of your choice. Fast, friendly service, low prices and big portions: the winning combo for a fresh, gourmet lunch on the go.

On the sweet side, opt for the traditional glutinous rice with coconut milk and diced mango, or the excellent plantain fritters with sesame seeds. Drinks include classic sodas (iced tea, cola, etc.) or iced tea and iced coffee, if the heat is on!

Once you've had your fill, enjoy a digestive stroll through the park, strolling along the paths, taking advantage of the swings or reading on one of the benches, contemplating the philosophical quotations scattered throughout the garden, to remind you to live fully in the present moment. Don't forget to light a stick of incense and make a wish in the quaint little hut on site. How about a trip to Thailand in the heart of the Île-de-France region this weekend?