<BR>After coming back from Italy two months ago, I am now planning our May 2001 trip. We always travel during May being our anniversary month and a shoulder season. <BR>We have been to Paris. I am thinking of <BR>Austria (Vienna, Salzburg) and Switzerland for a 2 week trip and maybe include Prague. <BR>I have started collecting infomation and reading them. <BR>Most people recommend Berner Oberland region in Switzerland but from what I have read from this forum and from Ed's website May is not the best time to go there...Any suggestions from you guys here... Is this a good combination of cities? Just like to hear your opinions. <BR>

I like the sound of this one; Switzerland and Austria are my two favourites in Europe. In May the weather will be cooler than it was in Italy, and you will get the odd day of rain/showers, and clouds that obscure the really great views. But you seem to be taking your time, so schedule the odd extra day here and there so you can wait for the good weather and good views.Lets face it in the mountains you can get rain at any time of the year, including high Summer. In late May you will also have long light evenings. <BR>In Austria I would be inclined to substitute Innsbruck for Salzburg, but maybe that is just my personal preference. I feel it is somehow a happier place, and it is right there in the Tyrolean mountains. <BR>Also in Austria be prepared to get slightly off the beaten track - the country towns and villages are generally better than the large cities and the freeway routes. Use a good map (from the library if necessary) before getting too far into your planning. <BR>If you are planning to go by rail let us know, as I could add some more detailed and attractive train itineraries if you wish.

P.S:- Check out Lake Geneva also, stunning scenery and it will be quite a bit warmer. Montreaux comes to mind as a touring base for one or two days, using the Lake steamers for part of the touring.

Ofelia, We did that area in May of 1999 <BR>and loved it. The Lakes of Austria are <BR>a real highlight. You will need to decide if you want to do Switz. or Prague---not enough time for both. I have some ideas, but too lenghthy to discuus here. Email me if you want some details.

<BR>thanks for the response.. <BR>bob, i would love to get ideas from you. <BR> <BR> <BR>ofelia

If you can include Prague in your plans I would certainly reccomend it. The city is quite unique and the architecture is splendid. Plus it's relatively inexpensive. We just had a week for a trip in March and went to Vienna and Prague and had a wonderful time.