schnauzer- if you are still reading this thread -

Here's another thought. Think of what really interests you and select according to interest.

Personally I'm interested in opera, so the natural choice is Vienna, where the maximum stay for someone like me is three months. I can then take the train almost anywhere within reason and see opera in other cities: Munich, Berlin, etc. Although my German is atrocious and almost non-existent at times, I was able to make at least one good friend who's a native of Austria (she speaks absolutely no English) and we would plan to meet for a certain opera together.

That's the way to meet locals and to make friends - shared interests, shared experiences.

Are you into dressage? Ceramics? Woodworking? Whatever your personal interests, choose a town that has something to do with your interest. You'll fit right in, you'll learn French fast - and painlessly.

Just my two cents.

temuskia, I meant info that might be of interest to the OP. I'd love to read your blog though.

Just picked up the thread again, lost it for a while with all the sausage and hotel talk!!!

Thanks easytraveller that sounds like good advice. Thanks also to TDudette for asking for more details.

Schnauzer