I was planning a trip to Rome, Florence, etc. My air miles limit the times that I can go to before May 15 and after Oct 15. I'd prefer to go this fall because prices keep going up a lot every year. On the other hand, weather in early May is likely to be a lot better than in late Oct/early Nov.<BR><BR>Any opinions on whether it would be wiser to go this year or wait until next?

We were in Tuscany for 10 days in mid-late October. There were a couple of rainy days but otherwise good weather, 60s-70s.

I vote for May. The chances for good weather are as you say, better, not guaranteed, just better odds. However, just in general, hotel prices can be lower from mid-October up until close to Easter, then they would be in May.<BR>You might want to do some rate comparisons if that is an issue.

Most good hotels do not have a low season anymore or don't start low season until mid November. In short, a fall trip will not save any money.

I tried every day for a couple of weeks in March/April to get tickets to Rome for May on several of the airlines we have frequent flier miles on. At this late date, if you don't have any reservations, I don't think you'll be able to travel in May.

I'm sorry - I just reread the post and realized the ACTUAL question!<BR><BR>If you don't mind waiting another year, I would vote for May. Keep in mind, though, October won't be terrible.