Hello!
Looking for some advice for a 3 weeks in France for Summer of 2011.
We are a group of 4, myself (42), my husband (36), my daughter (4) and my mother (late 60's).
Both my husband and I have been to France before (twice each) but only to Paris and a short 3 days in Provence (which we LOVED, but it was too short). This will be my mother's first trip to France (to anywhere outside the U.S.), as well as my daughters. She is interested in the art (impressionists, esp.), and ancient villages. I am interested in food, antiques, and linens. My husband is an avid photographer, and loves the history, and of course my daughter is four, so she'll be interested in it all, but only for about 3 minutes.
All we know so far is that we plan to spend about 5 days in Paris; and a week (somewhere in Provence). We plan on renting a car once we leave Paris. Timing will be last week of June and the first 2 weeks of July.
So - suggestions on locations?
For Provence: I am split on two issues.
First - If you had your choice (keep in mind 4 year old), would you pick renting a house with a pool in a country setting (but you have to get in your car to see anything), or would you pick renting a house/apartment in a tiny cute ancient village, where amenities, and sites were at your feet?
Second - Do you think a few nights in the eastern/northeastern part (like grasse, or dignes-les-bains) is best, or would you stick to the western end of provence (avignon, aix, etc).
Thanks!