I was just looking at the calendar and realized that I'll celebrate my 40th birthday next July. It's hard to believe, because in my mind I still feel like I'm 17! I was actually carded at the liquor store the other day and when the clerk asked how old I was, I really had to think about it! LOL!

But time keeps marching and I'd like to celebrate this occasion in style and out of town. I first thought of maybe going to Paris or Provence, but it will be July so it may not be the best time of the year for that trip.

I'd love to go to Istanbul, but is it too hot in July? Same problem with Bangkok.

Would the Paul Gauguin make sense in July?

I'm open to any domestic or foreign location (hopefully one that American Airlines or Continental flies to so I can use up some miles).

As for hotels, Leonard and I are leaning toward one that either participates in Amex's Fine Hotels & Resorts program for Platinum card members (hoping for a suite upgrade) or a Starwood hotel.

Where would you go to celebrate a big birthday in July? Please inspire me with your ideas! Thank you!

Andrea

I vote for the Paul Gauguin, most definitely! We've been on it the first week of June, the last week of August and first week of September. It was less rainy during June, so I think July would be fine. 75k AA miles round-trip economy.

I second the Paul Gauguin!! Perhaps a precruise stay too.

I did the Paul G. for my 40th last October. LOVED IT

July is time to go North - the Baltics and Scandinavian Countries, British Isles, Norway, Ireland....I'd have said Alaska, but, we know you've already been there and done that.

The Paul Gauguin would be great for this type of occasion. That being said, Kathy is right--if you go for Europe, go north. If you're not restricted to cruises, northern Spain and Portugal should be great at that time of year. Not sure what of the Amex hotels are up there, but we stayed in a lovely Relais hotel in northern Portugal, and there are a bunch of them around.

Thanks for all the suggestions! I've got to get out the atlas and start thinking.

We're hoping to go to Iceland for Len's 40th the following September. (He's wanted to go there for ages but it's just never worked out before.)

Andrea

how about a "round the world" ticket. Use miles or purchase one of the OneWorld or Star Alliance round the world ticket and see how many places you can see in a week or 2. Give that atlas a real workout! The OneWorld and Star Alliance forums on Flyertalk are full of good advice on maximizing those types of tickets.

As far as I am concerned, any cruise is the way I would go.
I also agree with Kathy...the Baltics is my favoite cruise area in the world.
Lynn