Have up to 2 weeks vacation time this June-- Need suggestions as to base location(s) and itinerary for a relaxed driving trip. We like good accomodations, good food and picturesque landscapes. We try to avoid bus tours and "tacky, tourist stops." We are trying to learn about what towns to visit and what towns not to go to. Any suggestions re: above will be very much appreciated.<BR><BR>Thank you all in advance<BR><BR>Shirley

My expertise for Provence truly does not scratch the surface - - but I can strongly recommend a few things:<BR><BR>from north to south - - in western Provence:<BR><BR>Orange - - the theatre Antique - - ideally for a night time performance of some kind. Awesome.<BR><BR>Avignon - - for the entire old city.<BR><BR>Arles - - for the Arena, and just exploring.<BR><BR>Aix-en-provence - - for all of it - - though I wonder if the torn up Cours Mirabeau reconstruction will finally be complete this summer.<BR><BR>Don't have a specific recommendation for you for accommodation - - but this place looks appealing to me, for an eventual want-to-try staying there - - www.campagne-jeanne.com <BR><BR>Like I said, there is SO much than this. I hope you are loading up on books and other reading/appetite-whetting materials.<BR><BR>Best wishes,<BR><BR>Rex<BR>

Thanks so much-- was hoping for more replies. Yours the only one so far but quite helpful. Yes, i am loading up on books!!!

Hi Shirley,<BR>I would drive the coastal winding highway between Monte Carlo and Port Frejus. You will find great scenery, hidden beaches, nice bistros and you<BR>can stop in good hotels at Nice, Cannes, St.Raffael, before turning into the Provence "hinterland" which should be visited as Rex said.<BR>More specific infoes - email me<BR>Shain/eu/de/d&uuml;sseldorf

To Shirley<BR><BR>What airport[s] are you flying in and out of?<BR><BR>You may want get a copy of "Hidden Gems of Provence." Also the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide.

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