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Deep in the south of France, Provence offers an almost predictable palette of travel experiences: oceans of vineyards, fields of scented lavender, adorable villages and intoxicating bouillabaisse. But the area is also crammed with ancient history.

I am terrible at foreign languages. Despite travelling to Europe four months a year, I can barely put a sentence together anywhere east or south of England.

Grand, centuries-old cathedrals distinguish Great Britain’s cities and towns, providing spiritual nourishment to those who visit. These places of worship seem ancient almost beyond imagination.

Twenty years ago, I was on a train heading to Rothenburg to update the ultimate medieval town in Germany for my guidebook. I knew the town well and was anticipating a happy homecoming.

When I’m in Italy, I generally eat only Italian food. I doubt there’s another country in Europe (except France) that could hold my palate’s interest so easily. Italians are passionate about food.

LUDWIGSLUST, Germany — With my passport safely stuffed into a zipper pocket and the plane descending for an on-time arrival, there was nothing to be wound up about.

North to Alaska They’re goin’ north, the rush is on North to Alaska They’re goin’ north, the rush is on. Change one of those lines to, They’re cruisin’ North, the rush is on, and that Johnny Horton hit from 1960 would be relevant today.

This was supposed to be a joyous year for the Panama Canal. Its 100th birthday and the ensuing celebration was going to be centred around the opening of the expansion and new locks.