Hi - I am going to be in Monte Carlo on buiness 4 days in late Aug. I have 5-6 days to travel after and am looking for opinions on either heading west (Fr Riviera and into France...maybe Provance) or east (It Riviera and into Italy...maybe Tuscany/Florence).

It is for two adults who love food, scenic views and history. We will probably get time for day trips during Monte Carlo (i.e. Nice). We'll combine train/car as needed and exit aiport is totally flexible. Crowds and warm weather are expected. Thanks!

When you say you love food, please understand that the food of the French Riviera and the Italian Riviera share some characterics, but in essence are really very different. On the Italian Riviera, you will encounter a lot of garlic, basil and shellfish. The food of Provence is different, and more complex. (Provence experts, please chime in.)

After the sterility of 4 days in Monaco, I would make a bee line for the relaxed and loose atmosphere of Italy -- although August means a mob everywhere you go, whether it be France or Italy.

Some suggestions:

Check out the possibility of staying in the town of Cervo, in Imperia (Italy), where San Giorgio's restaurant is extraordinary.

Try the hustle and bustle of Genova, with its great restaurants, art treasures and sea views. Or 30 minutes away is the sweet fishing town of Camogli -- and further down the coast you have everything from Portofino to the various rustic towns of the Cinque Terre and its vicinity.

If you choose to head in the direction of Spain, I suggest you either go to Marseilles, for something quite a bit different from Monaco, or all the way to Collioure and perhaps across the Spanish border. Catolonia is a foodie's paradise.

But you need to make reservations ASAP for August.