Helen

Hi. I am planning a trip to the Riviera, Provence, and Paris beginning of October. It is a surprise trip for my husband who doesn't know where we are going, so I am packing for both of us. Do I need warm weather clothes, a jacket, etc. I would appreciate any and all tips you might have!! Thanks, Helen <BR>

elvira

From experience: <BR>Windbreaker-type jacket (with a hood,if you can), with a couple of sweaters (a cardigan and a pullover) <BR>Cotton turtlenecks and long-sleeved shirts <BR>Polo shirts or nice T-shirts <BR>Dockers for him, ditto and leggings for you <BR>Two pair of comfortable walking shoes <BR>Extra socks <BR> <BR>Unless you are going to a fancyshmancy restaurant, he won't need a jacket and tie and you won't need a cocktail dress. <BR> <BR>Temps will be in the 50's-60's, and count on rain (hence the hood; take a small travel umbrella too). <BR> <BR>Other than an electric shaver, try to leave the electrical appliances at home. Most hotels provide hairdryers; ask them if they do. Ditto the travel iron/steamer - no one really cares if you're wrinkled... <BR> <BR>It's not warm enough to swim, but on a sunny day, you can catch a few rays on the beach. <BR> <BR>Fall is my favorite time in France - lovely temperatures, and the hordes of tourists have gone home - and the French are in a pretty good mood!

Beth

Helen, <BR> <BR>I totally agree with Elvira. I spent the month of October wandering France and Italy. I found out the hard way what its like to overpack and then have to lug it all around! Keep it simple. A wool blazer with a turtle neck under it was what I wore most of the time. Black pants or leggings will get you through almost everything. Toward the end of October it got quite chilly, so layering was key. I would suggest bringing along a scarf and a pair of leather gloves. Those come in pretty handy and don't take up much room in the suitcase! And as always, don't forget an umbrella. We ran into a week of rain, but it didn't stop us. France in the rain is better than no France at all!! Bon voyage.

Richard

Ditto the above, remember the old saw "take half the clothes and twice the money" you think you'll need.

I947

IO47

Fran

Helen, I just returned from a trip to Paris and Nice. It rained every day in Paris so take an umbrella. Nice was much warmer than I expected. I would lhave killed for a pair of sandals and was very grateful I'd thrown in a pair of kahki shorts at the last minute. <BR>