The OP and partner left yesterday. They're already in Britain. At least if what they posted on Lonely Planet is correct. They didn't go on any travel forums until the night before they left!

Why do people do that? Kind of hard to help and make changes at the last minute!

I have no idea, Travel Nerd. The whole thing seemed ridiculous to me. I can't imagine what they thought they'd do with any advice they got - and they got a fair amount on Lonely Planet and just brushed it all off saying well, we're leaving tomorrow, then posting that they were at the airport waiting to board for their flight to London. Just pulling everybody's chain, I guess.

Everyone on LP thought they meant next year, too. Go figure. I'm sure the trip will turn out to be unique.

Maybe the OP plans to check in en route?

Dunno. Seems as if they were serious about getting travel advice to begin with, they might have checked in earlier. They must already be exhausted.

All of their plans for France and Italy are 'tentative'. I'd hate to arrive in Venice (or half the other locations) without bookings or plans.

Wanna bet we never hear from the OP again??

Thanks for the LP update St Cirq... That these people are already on their trip. Strange to join a forum and post only once. Wonder what they hoped to gain?

Even stranger to post only once 24 hours before you get on the plane!

My question is: "Why bother joining and posting?".All of us taking the time to read and answer their questions, give advise and share experiences. To never been read by the OP.
Sad...