Eva Longoria describes emotional connection to France while filming travel show

Eva Longoria has opened up about her passion for travel and culture, saying she has “always wanted” to host a travel show while reflecting on her experience filming across Europe.

The Searching For host, 51, shared that the idea for the series came together when CNN approached her, prompting her to immediately say yes.

“I always wanted to do a travel show because I really love experiencing new cultures,” Longoria told People. “When CNN came to me with the Searching For series, I immediately said yes.”

The actress has previously explored destinations including Mexico and Spain through the series, but said her most recent experience filming in France held a particularly personal connection.

Longoria has long ties to France, having spent extended periods there during her marriage to former basketball player Tony Parker. She described returning for season three as especially meaningful.

“It’s been definitely a romantic connection with this beautiful country,” she said.

Beyond food and culture, Longoria also said her time in France influenced her personal style, particularly when it comes to fashion and packing habits.

“I pack outfits, not clothes,” she explained, noting she now focuses on versatility and simplicity when traveling. “This is something I learned in France… people don’t have a lot of clothes, they have great clothes.”

She added that she now embraces repeating outfits and restyling them, saying the experience reshaped how she thinks about everyday fashion.

Longoria, who has previously described herself as a “Francophile,” said the travel series has allowed her to combine her love of food, culture, and exploration.

“I just get to eat and drink my way through countries,” she said. “It’s so fun.”

The Searching For series continues to follow Longoria as she explores global cuisines and traditions, with France marking one of the most personally significant stops in the show’s journey so far.