My husband and I want to take a week away in the sun in the next couple of months! We usually go to the Caribbean, but have decided to go to Europe this year. We're thinking of France, Italy, or possibly Spain or Portugal. We are both late 20's, like a bit of night life (not nightclubs, but bars and lively restaurants, wine bars, etc), and are definite foodies. We live in
Northern Ireland.

We want to be able to spend a few days lying by the pool/sea to relax, followed by a few days exploring the local area. We would probably rent a car for a few days.

Is it possible to find the following:

- 4/5 star hotel.
- hotel right on the beach, with water ski-ing available.
- preferably with rooms that are on the beach.
- hotel within walking distance to a town. Ideally this town would have several restaurants, and lots of little cafes to sit outside and have a glass of wine while people watching (my fav pastime).
- a spa at the hotel.
- not over run by kids (sorry to all the parents out there!!)

Any suggestions??

Thank you very much for taking the time to reply.

Angela

ttt

Frankly, I think you'd probably be happier in the Caribbean...

In Italy you might consider the Il Pellicano in Porto Ercole or the luxury hotels on the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia. They used to be owned by the Aga Khan; I'm not sure whether they still are. And there's the Hotel Splendido in Portofino.

I don't know any of these hotels from personal experience, so I cannot guarantee that they will fulfill all your requirements.

Eloise

Thank you for your suggestions, I shall certainly look into them.

I'm not sure why you say we would be happier in the Caribbean - is this because you believe my ideal place doesn't exist in France or Italy?

I have in fact been to France several times, so it won't be a too much of a culture shock!

All other suggestions welcome!

Angela

I can think of a number of places that would fit the bill - Barcelona being at the top of the list - you could stay in the city and visit the beach or vice versa. Ditto Venice, staying on the Lido and using the vaporetti to reach the sights. Or Nice, using it as a base to explore the cote d'azur.
I'm sure other posters will have some other great ideas. Good luck!

Thank you Annhig, I am looking into all these suggestions. Thanks for taking the time.

Angela