We will be travelling to France in December to visit family. Staying for around 4 - 5 weeks with a base in Paris. We have visited France once before so we are not put off by the weather In December. Is the region of Provence worthwhile visiting at this time. Also I have read a lot about Annecy, in the French Alps. Is it advisable to visit the French Alps at this time of year. We will also be looking at neighbouring countries for inspiration.

We have visited Lyon in December and found the weather mild and the winter food (in this gastronomique paradise) is wonderful. Might this interest you?

Yes this does interest me. I have read about Lyon and the amazing food. Thanks

The heart of tourist Provence - the Avignon area isn also great- especially if you have a car - so many neat sites in a compact area. About three hours by train from Paris - hit Lyon en route also.

Nice and Rivera of course also nicer weather and fewer crowds in December. With trains and buses going everywhere no need of car.

Annecy sure why not? If like colder weather but not really cold.

Take trains from Paris and booking really early can save lots of money on fares - check www.voyages-sncf.com for booking your own discounted tickets. www.seat61.com has loads on doing just that - general train info BETS-European Rail Experts and www.ricksteves.com.

neighboring counries - London is just about 2 hours from Paris and always warmer than freezing and often in 40s 50s.

Amsterdam is 3.5 hours by train and is always enjoyable and rarely cool.

You are lucky to be spending long enough to be able to modify your plans according to the weather. Once winter begins, there are plenty of times when it can be colder andf rainier in the south of France than the north -- this doesn't happen too often, but it is something to keep in mind. A lot of northern cities are extremely active in the winter, such as Lille, Strasbourg, Metz, Amiens. Brussels is also within easy reach and provides an interesting change.

If you are interested in the Christmas markets of Alsace, it is particularly important to start booking accommodations in places like Strasbourg at least six months in advance unless you are looking for 4 and 5-star hotels.

Nancy near Metz is to me a very underrated city! One of Europe's largest town squares and most impressive to in Place Stanlslus.