Hi, <BR> <BR>My husband, nine year old son and I plan to spend several months in Europe (in between jobs). We're wondering how to zero in on the best place to pick to serve as home base. We are focusing on Southern France and Northenr Italy. <BR> <BR>Any ideas for quaint little towns, where we could rent a cute home would be greatly appreciated. <BR> <BR>Molly

We all envy you!! I am actually spending five months in Europe this summer but hopping around a lot trying to fill in all the gaps I've missed over the last few years. If I had two months to settle down, I think I'd still opt for two separate places. One month in Provence and one month in Tuscany. What could be greater that that??? Unless of course you actually have closer to three months, then I'd split that month up with half in Paris at the beginning and half in Rome at the end, or vice versa.

In France, I'd recommend either the Languedoc or Perigord (Dordogne Valley) for inexpensive houses to rent (everthing from converted pigeon houses and windmills to chateaux). Unlike Provence, which can be overrun with tourists, these two areas are a bit quieter (then you can visit Provence without having to live with the tourists). <BR>If you do a websearch for holiday rentals France or vacation rentals France you should find a plethora of places (say that five times fast) with pictures and descriptions (take a look at many so you can see what's offered, what sort of accommodations are available, etc.). <BR>I would imagine the same search, substituting ITALY, would get similar results for rentals in that country.

We have been to Tuscany many times and the best place to stay is a working vineyard called la crociona. It is about 45 minutes south of Siena just outside a city called Montalcino. There are many little towns near by and you can take the train to Florence. If you would like more information about La crociona feel free to E-mail me.

Dear Molly, <BR>We can propose you lovely villas with spectacular seaview and apartments on Western Liguria (40 minutes' drive far from Montecarlo) and 5 minutes from beaches. For additional infos and pictures kindly contact us Holiday Homes in Liguria Clara Randone e-mail [email protected] <BR>

What's that? I think I see Dr Abate hiding behind the door!