I have gotten much information from reading others posts and have gotten answers to my questions. I am leaving next Tuesday for 14 days in Nice, Provence and Paris. I know I'm going to Monaco and Eze. After that, St. Remy and a few markets. Lastly, Paris and the flea markets. Just like a lot of others, Provence was stressing me out. Where to go, what to see,will I see everything. That, I have decided, was not the right attitude. Everything I see will be new to me. If I get lost driving, THAT is what I was meant to see. I won't feel guilty if I don't study the museum masterpieces, but only check out the fashion sense of Parisien women. So, I'll probably buy some Lavender soap, cheap wine and get my fill of croissants and crepes. Now, how bad can that be?

Only bad thing I see is the cheap wine.
You're on holiday so treat yourself to at least a glass or more of Chateauneuf-du-Pape! It can as little as 8 to 12 euros a glass.

Your attitude is perfect........ I stressed about trying to find certain restaurants and shops that were recommended to me, but I finally gave that up and just enjoyed all that I could.......... For one thing, it is hard enough just figuring out where you are when your walking around, much less trying to find a specific place to eat...... Ask the locals for good restaurants and directions, they are more than willing to help.......

That's pretty much the approach we use in the French contryside. We move to an area, settle for a couple of weeks, and then explore as the mood moves us. We usually have one or two "must sees" nestled in there, but rest of it is unstructured.

I'd say you're going to have a wonderful visit.

Anselm

Chateauneuf de Pape is a nice drive from St. Remy/Avignon... worth visiting the unique vineyards of the area that are beautiful with the vines growing amongst large, round stones. You can arrange tastings in advance for some of the smaller, family owned wineries.

You may find cheap wine in Provence but unlikely to find bad wine!!! Remember, the French are passionate and justly proud of their wines. Also, the honey (miel) Provencal artisan soaps are just as lovely as the lavender...

Perfect plan. My DH (new one too) and I used the same "plan" for our honeymoon. Saw an awful lot, got out and about, but it was restful and fun.

SusieC, congratulations on your recent marriage! I meant to say this a while back when you posted something about a planned trip with your new spouse.

Anselm

Get the Michelin Green Guide to Provence and enjoy. Lists all the markets also.
The flea markets of Paris--an end in sight or just because. Look to see if there are any brocantes while you are there.

Antibes is a nice day-trip from Nice, if you feel like seeing a little harbor town. I believe very nice yachts can be seen there, too. You can walk the length of the sea wall, and into the little town which is very charming.

We also enjoyed old Nice, so don't feel you have to leave it everyday. (You can find my trip report from our May visit, by clicking on my screen name above.)

Have fun! >-

Thank you Anselm. I'm one of the luckiest "old" girls I know.