No Swan Song: As A Summer Of Travel Comes To An End, Fall Beckons With More Adventures

Saturday morning in Strasbourg, I stepped off European Waterways‘ 12-passenger Panache after a week of cruising through stunning French landscapes. We had perfect weather, sun-filled blue skies all along the journey, lots of physical activity (jogging and cycling between locks along the canals), delicious dinners, French cheese platters and wines, good company and culturally immersive experiences. I’ll be writing about our six days on Panache all of this week.

At the moment, however, I am overnighting in Paris before heading back to Appalachia. As I prepare to leave I think back to a great summer (so far) traveling with loved ones, including my two children. Both are wonderful kids, and I look forward to spending time with them once back in Asheville, North Carolina. I plan to spend at least 10 days there before returning to the sea (and rivers) for more Avid Cruiser adventures.

The swan pictured above tapped on the windows of Panache as the barge was docked in Saverne, France, on Thursday morning. Was the swan tapping at its reflection, admiring its beauty like Narcissus? I am not sure. What I do know is that I enjoy the beauty of swans, and if you do too, check out the slideshow below, where you’ll find a few more photos of swans to admire. 

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