Rita

My husband and I want to go to Europe the week after Christmas. I know, I know, that's not the best of times weather-wise but it's the only week we have to go. We are leaning towards Paris but are willing to research other destinations. Please offer suggestions!! Thanks.

Lee

Hi, read your message and have a couple of ideas. My wife and I just returned from a 10 day trip to southern Germany and had a fantastic time! Previously, I lived in Frankfurt for over two years and have visited Paris several times including the week after Christmas. It was cold, no snow really, but a lot of fun. You can still see the sights: Versailles, Louvre', Painter's Square, Tower, Notre Dame, etc. and have no crowds. Paris is always fun. You might consider Switzerland which is very beautiful or Bavaria (Munich, Schwangau, Oberammergau, Garmisch, into Innsbruck, etc.). With any of these, you can't go wrong as they are all beautiful. It may come down to how much time you have. If it's a week or less: Paris, otherwise, the others may be better if more time is available. Best of luck.

Denise

I spent a month in Europe during the summer of '94. I went to England, France, Lux., Belgium, and Switzerland. My favorite was Switzerland. It is the most beautiful place I have ever been. I went on a tour with Cosmos, which I do NOT recommend.
I also like England and France. The people are nicer in England, but both countries have some great places to see. Feel free to e-mail me. My fiance lived in England for 8 years, so he knows quite a bit!

BOB THE NAVIGATOR

Linda

Given that you know what the weather will be like, Paris is a great choice for a one-week stay. You might also want to consider Venice & Florence in northern Italy, Spain & Portugal or southern Germany. If you go on a tour (might be hard to find one for that time of year though), you'll get a lot for the money and you'll see everything there is to see. Most major European cities offer "Citi-Paks", mini-tours for 3-4 days. Enjoy!

YC Yip

My wife & I spent 12 days last late Dec / early Jan (just like you are going to do) and we managed to cover Switzerland, Venice & Verona (Italy), Munich & the Neuschwantein castles (Bavaria) at a very relaxing pace. I would say it is the best weather because that's when you feel the whole place belongs to you. Besides the Europeans, there are virtually no tourists. A must in Switzerland in winter is to head for Zermatt and admire the majestic Matterhorn (we went to Grindelwald Ski resort also, but if you go to Zermatt, you can actually skip that). Zermatt is where you really feel the mood of Winter, Xmas and New Year all in one. In Venice, you will see what others rarely see in other times of the year - Aqua Alto (High tide) The beautiful San Marco square was totally flooded and the mirror images of the Campanile & Basilica against a deep blue sky was indeed a sight to behold !

philip

One word. DUBLIN.

Donna

Go with your intuition! Paris is awesome. It will be winter everywhere. But, what better place to enjoy it than with huge museums (indoors obviously) with miles and miles of fascinating and breathtaking exhibits. And, awesome cuisine (also indoors) with fabulous ambience. But, if you'd rather enjoy the scenery, go to Switzerland!