I ARRIVED IN Limousin in a rental car, which felt wrong: it should surely have been a stretch limo. There are several theories as to how a motorized symbol of wealth and luxury came to be named for a rural part of central France that, while beautiful, is almost entirely devoid of opulence, but none are particularly convincing. One theory is that the limousine was christened in honor of native son Charles Jeantaud, the late-19th-century inventor of an early form of the motorcar. The other is that the hood of the early limo, intended to protect the chauffeur, resembled the hooded cloaks of Limousin shepherds. Whatever the truth, it's amusing to think that what was once the preferred mode of transportation for celebrities and royalty is named for a region best known for crockery and cows.
I got an inkling that there was more to Limousin than exquisite porcelain and delicious meat (Limousin veal is famous throughout France) a couple of years ago. During a cross-country trip, I made a brief stop in Limoges, the region's capital. Having read about the glorious train station, I ducked in. It was amazing: a palace in pale stone, with a giant dome decorated with stained glass by Limousin's master glass craftsman, Francis Chigot. Beneath that grand cupola loomed a quartet of sculpted women, each embodying a region of France. The figure of Le Limousin held a vase representing Limoges' famous porcelain in one hand and reached toward a canopy of wheat and chestnuts with the other. I've seen many provincial French train stations, and they don't normally look like this. As I marveled at the spectacular setting, I sensed there was much more to this region than I had once thought.
この記事は Travel+Leisure US の September 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Travel+Leisure US の September 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
SOUTHERN STAR
From Cape Town's cosseting hotels and the culinary pleasures of the Winelands to dramatic wildlife sightings at Sabi Sand, a classic South African itinerary reveals a nation primed for transformation.
Alla BOLOGNESE
Prosciutto, Parmigiano-Reggiano, tagliatelle al ragù.... The Italian city of Bologna and the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region have given the world some of its finest culinary treasures. But its chefs and producers aren't done yet.
A Different Pace
Her adventurous parents sparked a desire to see the world. But as they've gotten older, Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon is learning to slow down.
LEARNING TO LOVE THE LOUVRE
It's imposing, encyclopedic, and way too crowded. But use patience and a little strategy, argues Elaine Sciolino, and the world's greatest museum will enchant you.
SELMA steps out!
After a multiple sclerosis diagnosis, travel became nearly impossible for Selma Blair. At California's iconic and accessible-Rosewood Miramar Beach, the actor shares her advice on getting back out there.
Making Hotels More Hospitable
Major brands are answering the call for more accessible accommodations.
5 Reasons Cruises Are the Ultimate Accessible Vacation
THE COMFORT FACTOR - Traveling by ship often eliminates logistical headaches, says Rob Clabbers, a member of the T+L Travel Advisory Board and the founder and president of Q Cruise & Travel.
Dressed to the Nines
The latest draw for guests at luxury hotels? A straight-out-of-the-movies shopping spree.
Kids on Deck
Can a European river cruise be child-friendly? Kerry Spencer finds out.
The Realm of the Senses
For blind travelers, the world reveals itself in ways that go far beyond the visual.
