August 2004 Italy or France
 

Which one,where and why for a family of four
next August, kids will be 9 & 11.
Have researched a little and come up with either around Lyon area or Italian Lakes.
How hot would first week of August be in either and do the lakes have lots of mosquitos, we have one week.
Thanks

Hi Joanne,

In August all the French go to Italy.

Does that mean all the Italians go to France?

I don't know how France is in August, but from what I hear, you should avoid Italy in August - MUCH too crowded.

If you have other options I would definitely not do August in either of those countries. The French and Italians both have the month of August off making things crowded and many things closed (they close up shop to go on vacation.)

Although I have only been there in September, I think you might be fine in the Italian Lakes area.

I have been in the region of Annecy, Chamonix etc (a French "Lakes/Alpine" area) in August and encountered neither problems with heat or crowds - - although the lines for Mont Blanc were pretty darn long. They have a good system of reservations for going UP, so that you don't have to wait in line - - but it's first come, first served to go back down - - so that means more time up there than you might choose!

Best wishes,

Rex

We live in Italy, and it is HOT in August, and most places do not have air conditioning, so if you want Air Conditioning book a hotel now. Bed and Breakfasts are my favorite, also camping is fun with kids--there are many campgrounds in Italy, and many rent small bungalow type places too that are cheaper than hotels. just another idea. The Italian Lakes are great- Gardaland is on Lake Garda and is Italy's largest amusement park. Warning lines are long in August, but they are open 9am-12midnight. Go to Gardaland.it for more info if interested. You will need some bug repellent of some type no matter where you go in Italy in the summer time. I don't think we noticed any more mosquitoes at the lakes than at home though. I don't know anything about France though. If you want some more ideas for Northern Italy, you can email me at [email protected]

Thanks everyone, especially Patti, I will email you at some point if that is ok. I don't usually like hotels unless its only a couple of days, so the bungalows sound good.