My husband and I are planning a trip to Paris and Provence in June. However, he is having a hip replacement next month. Should I make the reservations now in the hope that he will be able to do lots of walking by then or just wait until around March. I'm a little afraid that I won't get the places I want if I wait too long. Of course, I'll wait on the airline tickets, I'm just referring to lodging. Thanks!

If there is no penalty to cancel there is no reason you can't make reservations now!
Happy planning.

I don't think you have to make them now, although you may want to for a special place. I wouldn't wait until March, though, as I had trouble getting a place in Provence for late June/early July when I was booking in February. A lot of the best places were already booked up, although I got rooms.

Some places do close down or have less staff in winter, though, so it can be more convenient to try to make reservations now if you know what you want. Maybe it can be motivation to do the necessary rehab and exercises, to have something to look forward to. Do be aware that many Provencal hotels have much more stringent cancellation policies in peak season than a hotel in a city like Paris. YOu should be able to cancel without penalty 4-6 weeks or so ahead of time, though, so you can see how things are going in March and cancel then if you want. I would suggest you think about taking out trip insurance in your case, and be sure to take it out on time (within x days of making some payments or arrangements) so you don't have pre-existing conditions exclusions. If you are American and over 65, you will probably want it for sure unless you have a Medicare supplemental policy with coverage abroad.

Hi S,

Make your reservations as early as possible.

Check the cancellation policy before making the reservation.

I hope DH heals quickly.

My husband underwent total hip replacement almost 2 year ago..He still cannot sit for many hours without feeling very, very uncomfortable.
Are you planning to fly in business Class? or in cattle class?

I would wait until March before making any reservations, by then you would be able to see in what physical conditions
your husband is and if is able to sit for long periods without feeling any pain.

My advise...follow Ira's advice.

Do use particular care in researching and choosing your lodging in Paris, ideally with a Metro Station, bus stop and cab stand all within a block, as well as a cafe and an interesting restaurant or two. You should study street and transit maps of the city. And ask on this board.

Thanks everyone, your answers are very helpful.