I'm travelling to Europe this spring - Paris, Brugges, Amsterdam and Germany (and back to Paris for the flight home.) But....where do we go in Germany? Would like to stay close to the Rhine. I'm clueless and would love any advice re: towns (small-ish) and hotels, etc. in Germany. Also - we are spending one last night in France before catching our flight (at CDG) - any advice on a non-Paris, "splurge" place to stay in France? Any advice or comments appreciated! <BR>

Chateau de Gilly - - http://www.slh.com/pages/g/gilgila.html <BR> <BR>I trust you have an afternoon flight home from Paris? This is probably 3.5 hrs from CDG.

Germany: The Krone Hotel in Assmannhausen on the Rhine is very nice. Right on the river. Another idea is the visit the Mosel River area. I like it as well or better than the Rhine. Both are close together. We stayed at the Alte Thorndecke in Cochem a few years ago and really enjoyed it. Cities close to the Rhine are Heidelberg and a little farther is Rothenberg. Both worth a visit if you have the time. Any specific questions, just email me.

Wow! Such fast replies! And so helpful! Thank you so much!!!!! <BR>

Not particularly close to the Rhine, but charming as all get out, check out Franconia, a part of Bavaria. We adore the village of Iphofen. Info at www.twenj.com/bavaria.htm

Tanya, <BR>Had a wonderful touring holiday in Germany last year. Stayed at Boppard on the Rhine which was pretty and a good location but the most picturesque place we visited was Bacharach. Absolutely gorgeous. Can't help on hotels, though. <BR>

In Germany, you might consider touring the Mosel River area instead of the Rhine. I think it's prettier (more vineyards and more spectacular hillsides) and less touristy, though you will find a few less castles.