​ Much has been written and filmed about the Normandy invasion and D-Day. It is impossible to appreciate the complexity and scope of this critical military endeavor without seeing firsthand the immensity of the invasion beaches and understanding the complexity of engineering, logistics, creativity and disinformation that allowed it to be successful. One does not leave the American Cemetery without being humbled by the sacrifice of so many. 

The unique itinerary of the Normandy trip allowed us to stay in one place while taking day excursions to sites we would never have ventured to on our own. Our Smithsonian Journeys Expert was able to answer every question about the history of each small village we drove through on our way to a destination, including its role in WWII. He truly brought history to life for us. What a pleasure!