France’s high-speed rail network is among the most advanced systems of its kind in Europe. It carries more than 122 million annual passengers across the nation at lightning-quick speeds, providing a convenient and comfortable way to travel between major cities. Better yet: The country plans to unveil a new, state-of-the-art fleet of ultrafast trains in 2026. Here’s what travelers can expect when France’s high-speed trains undergo a major glow-up next year.

The State of High-Speed Trains in France

First, you might be wondering how France’s impressive high-speed rail network came to exist. The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français (SNCF) is the state-owned railway company of France. In 1966, the SCNF began developing a high-speed train line called Trains à Grande Vitesse (TGV), which translates to “high-speed trains” in English.

The TGV entered service from Paris to Lyon on September 22, 1981. The new high-speed service completed the 250-mile journey in just two hours — half the time that it previously took. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, TGV ridership grew by around 70%, with trains reaching peak speeds of 236 mph. The service expanded to include connections to neighboring countries such as Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, and Luxembourg. And in 1994, the Eurostar opened high-speed train service between France and the United Kingdom for the first time.

Today, there are around 230 high-speed rail stations located throughout France and neighboring countries, with approximately 400 high-speed trains in active service. Riders can depart the capital of Paris and make it to, say, Marseille, on the Mediterranean coast, in only three hours and two minutes.

French TGV trains are also known for setting records: On April 3, 2007, the nation’s LGV Est model hit speeds of 357.2 miles per hour, setting a world speed record for a wheeled passenger train on steel rails.

A High-Speed Makeover

In 2017, France unveiled a new model and brand name for their high-speed trains: TGV inOui, a play on the French word inouï, meaning “extraordinary.” SNCF executive Rachel Picard said of the introduction that the goal of the TGV inOui line was to provide “a new customer experience with more comfort, more services, and more connection, at the same price.” 

Now, less than a decade after the line’s debut, the SNCF is set to roll out a fifth-generation model of the TGV inOui in 2026. These new trains boast a gorgeous, high-tech design. A team of 2,000 designers worked to craft the cars from scratch, taking into account factors such as comfort, practicality, accessibility, and eco-efficiency. 

These new trains will be made from 97% recyclable materials and have the lowest carbon footprint of any train of their kind. The trains aim to reduce CO2 emissions by 50% compared to earlier models.  

The trains also will increase the number of individual coaches from eight to nine, boosting the total capacity by 20% to up to 740 seats per train. They’re designed with accessibility in mind — for the first time ever, passengers who require wheelchairs will be able to easily and independently access a dedicated autonomous car via an integrated lifting platform.

Designers tested 125 different body types to ensure maximum comfort with the foam used in the seats, and trains will be fully outfitted with Wi-Fi. Additionally, the café car will be renovated to feature two separate stories: The bottom floor will serve as a self-service grocery, while the top floor will be a bistro section with booths where riders can enjoy their meals. Bathrooms on the train have also been enlarged, and will now feature frosted windows to let in natural light.

The train’s decor, too, is striking. In renderings, cars are decorated with a soft color palette featuring red, blue, and yellow hues. Combined with the many rounded shapes, it gives the trains a jointly futuristic and retro vibe. The design was a combined effort from French engineering consultancy AREP and Japanese design firm NENDO. “The idea was to take a fresh look, to introduce a lasting break in the railway world and to re-enchant a technical and industrial environment,” the SNCF said in a statement. 

Wondering when you’ll be able to ride these new trains? Luckily, we won’t have to wait long — they are set to hit the rails on the Paris-Lyon-Marseille line in 2026 and will roll out on additional lines thereafter.

What To Know About High-Speed Rail in France

When booking a TGV inOui ticket, you can choose between first or second class, both of which are exchangeable or refundable under certain conditions until the time of departure. Prices start around €15 ($18 USD) for domestic travel, but according to travel expert Rick Steves, as seats sell out closer to the departure date, prices increase (similar to airline fares), so it’s best to make a reservation sooner rather than later. Tickets are available for booking three to four months in advance. 

It’s also worth noting that there are certain luggage restrictions on TGV inOui trains. You can bring either two suitcases and one small item — or one suitcase, one small item, and one special item (e.g., a musical instrument, folding bike, etc.). Check here for further information about luggage, along with answers to other commonly asked questions.

In addition to the TGV inOui line, SNCF offers a more affordable alternative: TGV OUIGO. This high-speed rail travels at up to 186 mph. There are two types of fares. The first is a basic option starting at just €10 ($11.50) for adults and €5 for children under 11. But for €9 more, you can upgrade to a fare that comes with seat selection, Wi-Fi, and a skip-the-line service. The trains service around 50 destinations throughout France.

If you’ve had your eye on a new carry-on or you’re looking to upgrade your travel game with the right accessories to make your trip more comfortable, now’s the time to buy. Amazon just launched its Big Spring Sale, running from March 25 to March 31, 2026, and the retailer has slashed prices on all types of luggage, gadgets, and travel must-haves. Here are 12 highly rated picks at some of the lowest prices we’ve seen.

Apple AirTag

Savvy travelers know that an Apple AirTag Bluetooth tracker is the ultimate travel accessory for peace of mind. Toss one in your checked luggage so you can easily keep track of your bag in case the airline loses it.

Buy a 4-pack at Amazon for $60

TravelWise 5-Piece Packing Cube Set

Looking for a clever way to fit more in your carry-on? Packing cubes are the answer. They can help you maximize space and avoid checked bag fees. This highly rated set is lightweight yet durable, and it comes with small, medium, and large cubes for maximum flexibility.

Buy at Amazon for $23

INIU Pocket-Size Portable Charger

This lightweight, palm-sized power bank is one of the smallest on the market, so keeping your electronics charged on the go is simple and easy. Use the TSA-approved device for smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, wireless headphones, and more.

Buy at Amazon for $30

Samsonite Elevation Plus Hardside Luggage

Looking for a carry-on bag that’s both durable and stylish? This versatile, scratch-resistant Samsonite bag made with polypropylene has 360-degree spinner wheels that make it easy to navigate busy airport terminals.

Buy at Amazon for $153

FYY Cable Organizer Travel Bag

With all the tech gear we bring with us these days, charging cables can quickly turn into a tangled mess. Keep them all organized and save yourself the headache with this compact and lightweight cable pouch.

Buy at Amazon for $10

TakeToday Collapsible Water Bottle

Staying hydrated while traveling is essential, especially with dry airplane cabin air. This handy silicone foldable water bottle is easy to carry through TSA security and has a leak-resistant screw lid.

Buy at Amazon for $15

Sure Lock TSA-Compatible Luggage Locks

Nothing ruins a great vacation quicker than being the victim of theft. Many travelers opt for luggage locks while traveling to help deter potential thieves. These TSA-approved locks allow officers to carry out security checks without the need to cause any damage to the lock or the bag itself.

Buy at Amazon for $11

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Planning an international trip soon? Make sure your devices stay charged with this all-in-one adapter that works in over 200 countries. It includes USB-A and USB-C slots, in addition to a slot for more traditional power plugs. You can also plug in multiple devices and charge your computer, smartphone, and tablet all at once.

Buy at Amazon for $16

Bagsmart Women’s Travel Tote Bag

This stylish puffy tote bag is fitted with padded handles that make it comfortable to carry through the airport. It has multiple compartments, including a padded laptop compartment that can easily fit a 15-inch laptop.

Buy at Amazon for $25

Sony Wireless Headphones

Stay relaxed and focused on your travels with these wireless over-ear Bluetooth headphones designed with up to 50 hours of battery life.

Buy at Amazon for $48

Kitsch Shampoo Bar and Conditioner Bar

Avoid running afoul of liquid carry-on rules and pack these TSA-approved solid shampoo and conditioner bars instead. They’re made with castor and coconut oils, which strengthen and moisturize dry, damaged hair.

Buy at Amazon for $23

Destinations of a Lifetime

Seeking inspiration for your next vacation? This National Geographic hardcover coffee-table book features more than 250 stunning photos of Earth’s most incredible places, along with practical travel tips.

Buy at Amazon for $21

Editor’s note: Prices accurate at time of publication; subject to change.

Featured image credit: © DG PhotoStock/stock.adobe.com. All other image credits: Courtesy of vendor.

It’s not just your imagination: The feeling of calm that washes over us when we’re sunbathing at the beach, enjoying lake life on a boat, or soaking our muscles in a natural hot spring may actually be a semimeditative state affecting our bodies. Late marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols’ “Blue Mind Theory” suggests that being in or near water can impact overall quality of life by improving focus and creativity, bridging a connection to nature, reducing stress and anxiety, and elevating mood. Here’s everything you need to know about this travel trend that’s making waves in 2025.

Washing Away Stress and Sickness

According to Nichols, as little as 23 minutes of exposure to water can trigger the release of dopamine and oxytocin in the brain to prompt feelings of happiness, which may be why many hotels and resorts around the world are offering even more water-based activities and spa treatments than ever before. In 2020, the National Library of Medicine interviewed 184 customers of thermal spas and similar establishments and found that their interaction with water had a profound impact on their sense of well-being, leading them to positively rank their satisfaction with their vacation. 

But the science behind the health benefits of exposure to water goes beyond general feelings of contentment. In a 2025 study published in Environment International, scientists found that “sea spray aerosol (SSA) is a complex mixture of natural substances that can be inhaled by coastal residents.” Over the course of a year along the Ostend coast in Belgium, human bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to SSA samples leading to positive effects on overall health. And in another study by the National Trust in the United Kingdom, participants who took a seaside stroll before bed slept 47 minutes longer than those who took an evening walk inland.

Those who promote the benefits of water treatments, especially flotation therapies, highlight water’s ability to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and believe it reminds humans of floating in amniotic fluid in the womb, which could explain its tranquilizing effect. And you don’t need to even be in still water to feel the stress wash away. According to Dr. William Beecroft, the medical director of behavioral health for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, crashing waves can break apart water molecules, releasing negative ions that can decrease blood pressure and heart rate.

Where To Practice Blue Mind Travel

Water’s ability to both energize and calm is why many tourists seek out the perfect vacation near a river, stream, lake, waterfall, or ocean. Many properties around the world specialize in unique water access or treatments so that guests can experience the benefits of blue mind travel. Here are a few of our favorites.

Hôtel Royal – Évian-les-Bains, France

Guests can experience the restorative properties of Alpine water with exclusive therapeutic treatments at Hôtel Royal Evian in Évian-les-Bains. Evian water is sourced from the Alps and travels for approximately 15 years before reaching this five-star property in southeastern France, near the Swiss border. The on-site Evian Spa offers hydromassage baths, facials using Evian water, and massages beneath a water ramp.

Joali Being – The Maldives

Developed by aquatic bodyworker and poet Harold Dull in the 1980s, Watsu (water shiatsu) is a combination of stretches, massage techniques, and gentle movements in warm water. At wellness resort Joali Being in the Maldives, guests can experience this unique treatment in a pool with master Watsu practitioner Toru Ogasawara. Being submerged in the warm turquoise water while your body relaxes its muscles is said to deepen the connection between body, mind, and spirit. 

Chablé Yucatán – Chocholá, Mexico

Hidden in the heart of the Maya forest in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Chablé Yucatán features a spa built into a cenote, a natural pit or sinkhole possessing natural spring water that locals believe to have healing properties. Cenotes are unique to the Yucatán Península, which is why checking out the cool abyss surrounded by banyan trees and hydrotherapy treatments is popular among visitors. 

Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa – St. Barthélemy

Another popular wellness treatment featuring water, Janzu is an aquatic bodywork in which participants are guided into a meditative state using a series of gentle movements. At Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa in St. Barts, a French-speaking island in the Caribbean, guests can enjoy the spa service as well as private enclaves with ocean access and heated plunge pools for when the sun goes down. 

Ryokan Collection – Japan

For centuries, bathing at onsen (natural hot springs) has been a significant part of Japanese culture, associated with relaxation, quality time with loved ones, and therapeutic effects due to the water’s high mineral content. A ryokan, or a traditional Japanese inn often featuring onsen, is a worthwhile experience for those seeking the rejuvenating benefits of water and practicing blue mindfulness. The Ryokan Collection is a group of 32 inns around Japan where guests can experience these traditional accommodations. 

Immelkartano – Sirkka, Finland

If you’ve ever tried cryotherapy in the U.S. — exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures to reduce inflammation and improve recovery — experiencing avantouinti (“ice swimming”) in Finland is a must. At Immelkartano in Sirkka, guests can brave the chilly water temperatures in Lapland with an arctic bath to cleanse the body and mind after they take a long soak in a hot tub. 

During a long flight, have you ever idled away the hours by taking a closer look at the aircraft cabin? If so, you might have noticed some unique and unusual details. For instance, unlike windows found elsewhere, the windows on an aircraft are oval instead of square. Find out why that is and the significance of that tiny hole you see at the base of each window.

Aircraft Windows Haven’t Always Been Round

Introduced during the early days of commercial aviation, the De Havilland Comet was a pioneering British plane that was the first to be fitted with jet engines. In contrast, rival planes at the time, such as the Lockheed Constellation, were powered by propellers. The Comet, launched in 1952, flew at higher altitudes and faster than its predecessors. When it first went into service, the Comet had square windows. Though no one knew it at first, this would prove to be a devastating flaw.

At first, there were no issues with the Comet, but as the planes racked up more mileage, fatigue fractures started to appear. Several Comets crashed, including one that plunged into the Mediterranean Sea on January 10, 1954, shortly after takeoff from Rome. When experts inspected the wreckage, they noticed that an 8-foot-long fracture had occurred in the corner of one of the windows that was positioned where the radio aerials were located, impacting another window frame and contributing to the breakup of the fuselage after takeoff.

Improving Airline Safety

Throughout the history of commercial aviation, investigators have used the knowledge gained from the findings in the aftermath of plane crashes to inform changes that should be made to improve safety. Though metal fatigue was officially the cause of those early De Havilland Comet crashes, the square design of the windows, coupled with the pressurized cabin, was considered a contributing factor. 

As a direct consequence of those tragic early crashes, Comets were grounded indefinitely, until they could be retrofitted with oval windows to resolve the problem of stress concentrations at the corners. Not only is a rounded shape stronger, but this new design was also better able to withstand the differences in pressure found on the inside and outside of the aircraft. (Aircraft cabins are pressurized to ensure the concentration of oxygen is high enough for us to breathe while traveling at high altitude.)

What Are the Tiny Holes for in Aircraft Windows?

The rounded shape of the windows you see on modern airplanes isn’t the only important aspect of their design. The internal layers you see on the window beside you are made of acrylic rather than glass. Look closely, and you’ll see a tiny hole in the nearest of the three layers. It’s known as a bleed hole or a breather hole. Though tiny, it plays an important part in keeping us safe while we’re in the air. 

Because air pressure varies with altitude, plane windows need this tiny hole to allow sufficient air to pass through in order to equalize the pressure. The stress remains greatest on the outside, which prioritizes passenger comfort and safety. If there was no hole, the outer pane could theoretically crack or even pop out completely. The hole’s secondary function is to prevent frost or condensation from building up, so it helps to ensure you always have an unobstructed view of what’s outside the window.

Featured image credit: Sammyvision/ Moment via Getty Images 

Navigating the intricacies of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations can be a hassle for even the most seasoned travelers. To keep airport security lines moving (and to keep all your toiletries with you), it’s important to understand the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on bags. The TSA sets these regulations for liquids in carry-on baggage to ensure safe and efficient air travel. While they may seem strict, the guidelines are straightforward once you understand them (along with a few important exceptions). Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about TSA liquid rules before your next flight.

The 3-1-1 Rule

The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule is a simple way to explain how many ounces of liquids each passenger is allowed in a carry-on bag.

• 3: Each liquid must be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
• 1: All containers must fit inside a quart-sized clear plastic bag.
• 1: Each passenger is allowed one such bag.

Keep in mind that the 3.4-ounce rule applies to the size of the container. “Ultimately, the size is determined by what is written on the bottle itself,” the TSA says — the amount of actual liquid in the bottle doesn’t matter. Any bottle larger than 3.4 ounces, regardless of its contents, must be checked or thrown away. While there are no limitations on liquids in checked baggage, consider placing them in leakproof bags to avoid mid-flight messes.

Thankfully, it’s easy to find TSA-approved refillable toiletry containers and quart-sized travel bags to pack in your carry-on. This can help ensure your liquids are within TSA size standards.

What Counts as a Liquid?

The 3-1-1 rule isn’t only for traditional liquids, such as water and drinks. It applies to anything that isn’t solid, including aerosols, oils, gels, creams, lotions, and pastes. This includes most toiletries, such as shampoo, sunscreen, body wash, hair gel, hair spray, toothpaste, skin care, aerosol deodorant, and liquid makeup. 

It also includes some food. Even if the product is factory-sealed, you cannot bring any food that isn’t solid — such as peanut butter and salsa — through security. The rule even applies to souvenirs purchased during your trip (before security) that might contain more than 3.4 ounces of liquids, such as bottles of wine, snow globes, and even Magic 8 Balls. These items need to be placed in checked baggage.

Solid yet spreadable items — such as stick deodorant, bar soap, lipstick, and powder makeup — are not considered liquids and don’t need to be packed in your quart-size bag.

Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule

There are a few notable exceptions to the liquid rules, most often made for medical and health reasons. For example, the TSA says larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols (in reasonable quantities) are permissible in carry-ons, so long as you declare them to the TSA officers at the security checkpoint. This includes prescription and over-the-counter liquid medications (such as cough syrup or insulin), IV bags, and ice packs or gel packs. The officers will assist you by inspecting them separately. 

Other exemptions to the 3.4-ounce rule include food for infants, such as formula and breast milk. For toddlers, sippy cups filled with water or juice and pouches of pureed food in excess of 3.4 ounces are permissible — just inform the TSA agent at the beginning of your screening process and remove the items from your carry-on bag.

What About Liquids Purchased After Security?

Any liquids or semi-liquids purchased after the security checkpoint, regardless of size, are allowed on the plane because they pass rigorous safety checks. This includes items such as coffee, water, snacks, and souvenirs.

It also includes duty-free liquid purchases made at a duty-free store in the terminal. According to the TSA, you may carry more than 3.4 ounces of fluid in your carry-on bag if you meet these three requirements:

• The duty-free liquids were purchased internationally while you were traveling to the U.S. on a connecting flight.
• The liquids are packed in a clear, tamper-evident bag by the retailer and do not show signs of tampering.
• The purchase was made within the last 48 hours, and you have the receipt.

Prohibited Liquids

Certain liquids and nonsolid items are always prohibited in carry-on and checked baggage due to safety concerns. This includes flammable aerosols, such as spray paint and spray starch (fabric wrinkle remover), as well as compressed gas cartridges, like CO2, which are used for inflating bicycle tires. Similarly, self-defense sprays (mace or pepper spray) are banned in carry-ons but are permitted in amounts of up to 4 ounces in checked luggage.

Hazardous liquids like those used for cleaning (e.g., bleach, pesticides, and drain cleaner) are also banned from U.S. flights. Lastly, alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (over 140 proof) are prohibited from carry-on and checked luggage; this includes grain alcohol and 151-proof rum.

International Liquid Rules

Most international security organizations stick to similar liquid regulations to streamline the travel process. For instance, in the European Union, the maximum size per container is 100 milliliters (approximately 3.38 fluid ounces), and all carry-on liquids must fit into a 1-liter clear bag (which is roughly the same size as 1 U.S. quart). The EU makes similar exceptions for medical liquids, infant food, and duty-free purchases.

Meanwhile, LATAM Airlines, South America’s largest airline, permits various quantities of liquids in carry-on baggage according to guidance from local authorities. Those traveling through security in Brazil, for instance, may bring up to four containers of liquids, each containing 300 milliliters or less. For travelers going through security in Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador, there are no restrictions on the quantity of carry-on liquids. For all other international flights, LATAM adheres to the 3-1-1 rule used in the U.S. and European Union.