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A few weeks ago I spent seven days on the Cote d'Azur - Cannes, Mougins, and Nice - and I came back with a lot to share.
If you have been hesitating about France this summer, let me put your mind at ease. The Cote d'Azur is gorgeous, warm, and very much open for American visitors. Whatever you may have read about European travel right now - I was just there, and it was as magical as ever. The people, the pace, the light on the water. There is simply nothing like it.
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 There are years when France is simply France, breathtaking, romantic, endlessly compelling. And then there are years when France becomes something even more extraordinary. 2026 is one of those years.
This year marks the centenary of the death of Claude Monet, the master of Impressionism, who passed away on December 5, 1926, in his beloved village of Giverny. To honor his legacy, France has organized over 100 events spanning Normandy and the Paris Region, including exhibitions, river cruises, open-air concerts, lectures, garden walks, and immersive experiences that bring Monet's world to life in ways never seen before. I have walked the gardens at Giverny. I have stood in the oval rooms of the Musée de l'Orangerie, surrounded by the Water Lilies. There is nothing quite like experiencing Monet's world firsthand, and in 2026, that experience has been elevated to something truly exceptional. The holiday season is a wonderful time to pause, reflect, and dream. As we celebrate Christmas and the close of 2025, it’s the perfect moment to think about the experiences that made this year memorable and to imagine the adventures waiting for us in 2026. For many travelers, this year brought unexpected joys, meaningful connections, and the chance to explore new horizons. Whether it was a long-awaited trip, a quick getaway, or simply discovering new corners of the world closer to home, each journey left lasting memories. Looking ahead, 2026 promises even more opportunities for thoughtfully planned travel. From relaxing escapes to culturally rich adventures, there are countless ways to make your next trip seamless, rewarding, and truly unforgettable. Early planning not only secures the best destinations and accommodations, it also gives you something wonderful to look forward to in the new year. I wish you a joyful Christmas, a season of warmth, and a new year filled with exciting journeys, discovery, and moments that truly matter.  Travel isn’t just about the Destinations - it’s about relishing every moment along the way. For travelers who savor elegance, comfort, and breathtaking scenery, Europe’s luxury scenic trains offer an extraordinary experience that transforms travel into a moving masterpiece. From the timeless glamour of vintage carriages to worldclass service and astonishing views, these journeys blend history, culture, and natural beauty into pure indulgence.
1. Venice Simplon - Orient - Express Step back in time on the world renowned Venice Simplon - Orient - Express, the epitome of luxury rail travel. Imagine yourself surrounded by exquisite 1920s and 1930s carriages, gleaming polished wood, brass details, and plush velvet seats that harken to the golden age of travel. Dining here is not just a meal - it's an event. Savor multicourse gourmet cuisine served on fine china, paired masterfully with exquisite wines, all while attentive staff await your every need. The iconic route between London and Venice (with variations connecting Paris, Vienna, and Prague) treats you to a stunning parade of landscapes: rolling French countryside, the snowcapped grandeur of the Alps, and Italy's romantic vistas. Why it’s special: The Orient - Express is more than a train ride; it’s stepping into a legendary world of timeless elegance and luxury - a true bucket list treasure. 2. Flying Scotsman For a mix of historic prestige and sweeping British landscapes, the Flying Scotsman is a must. This legendary steam locomotive, dating back to 1923, offers luxury excursions rich with nostalgia and class. Enjoy firstclass seating, traditional fine dining, and attentive service as you journey through picturesque countryside, stately manors, and the rugged beauty of Scotland’s Lowlands. Why it’s special: Riding the Flying Scotsman is like boarding a living chapter of British history while being surrounded by some of the UK’s most breathtaking natural scenery. 3. Bernina Express Switzerland’s Bernina Express is often ranked as one of the world’s most spectacular train rides. Linking Chur or St. Moritz with Tirano, Italy, this journey unfolds panoramic views of snowcapped Alps, glaciers, shimmering lakes, and charming alpine villages. The firstclass panoramic carriages offer huge windows that ensure you don’t miss a single jawdropping moment. Traveling through the UNESCO World Heritagelisted Bernina Pass, the route marvels with viaducts, tunnels, and a changing kaleidoscope of seasons—from snowy winter wonderlands to vibrant spring blooms and golden autumnal peaks. Exploring Elegance: From Parisian Charm to Normandy’s Historic Shores Aboard AMAwaterways' AMADante7/29/2025 ✨🌟There's something truly magical about Paris : the city where every corner tells a story, every street hums with life, and the air smells of freshly baked croissants and blooming romance. My journey began here, in the heart of France, a place where timeless art, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture come alive. Paris greeted me with its dazzling Eiffel Tower views, the tranquil beauty of the Seine as it meanders through the city, and the mouthwatering charm of quaint cafes where time seems to slow down. I visited the breathtaking d'Orsay and l'Orangerie museums, immersing myself in masterpieces of Impressionism that capture the delicate light and vibrant emotions of that remarkable art 🎨 but the highlight of Paris was undoubtedly the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral : beautifully cleaned and carefully repaired since the devastating fire, standing as a powerful symbol of resilience and timeless beauty. But the magic didn’t stop there. I boarded the elegant AMADante cruise ship, part of the acclaimed AMAWaterways fleet, to embark on a serene voyage along the Seine River, journeying from the dazzling cityscape of Paris to the tranquil and historically rich region of Normandy. |
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April 2026
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Equinox Travel is a registered business name of Equinox Travel, LLC.
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