If you had five extra days to spend in southern France, would you go to the Pyrenees or to Provence? <BR> <BR>We'll be there in August, with a rental car, but we simply can't decide whether to explore Provence or go hiking in the Pyrenees, so I decided to ask you which you'd choose and why....

Both are beautiful, so if you're hesitating, you could flip a coin. <BR> <BR>However, on the overall, I would perhaps choose Pyrenees for hiking. There's some really beautiful scenery, there. Also, it's less touristy. <BR> <BR>I would choose Provence for more laid back vacations, for its villages and little towns...

The Pyrénées and Provence are two very different places, each with tremendous charm. Given that you're going in August, I'd choose the Pyrénées, though, as the temperature is likely to be a bit more confortable and the crowds less daunting. And if hiking is an important part of the trip, then certainly I'd choose the Pyrénées.

Vote three for the Pyrenees in August.

sophie, <BR>Yet another vote for the Pyrenees, particularly for cooler weather there in August, fewer crowds and the hiking is superb, something we'll be doing in late July. <BR>Have a great time!

I remember superb hikes in Gavarnie and Cauterets/Pont dŽEspagne. Beautiful waterfalls and striking scenery.

Sophie: <BR> <BR>I love both Provence and the Pyrenees, which run nearly 300 miles east to west along the border with Spain. However, I would give the nod to the Pyrenees. You might want to stop in Foix and see it's chateau. The views of the Ariege valley, river and the mountains are stunning. From there head west to St.Girons and maybe even the Cauterets or the Cirque of Gavarnie, a natural mountain amphiteater.. <BR> <BR>Regards.. <BR> <BR>Luis

Where are all o the discounted fares to Europe this season? Will they EVER drop the fares this summer. I know it's the high season, but it doesn't seem like the fares are coming down in price AT ALL. <BR> <BR>Any comments, ideas or suggestions? <BR> <BR>Ross.