We are planning our first ever visit to Califonia early April 2004. Would really appreciate advice on Good quality/value accomodation in the Nappa/Sonoma Region. Also, have heard Yosemite might be snow bound and Tioga pass closed early April. What's likely to be the case?
Thanks.

Yes it is very likely that Tioga Pass would be closed during April. It actually just opened this year last weekend. Many of the camping and service areas along Tioga Pass and Tuolomne Meadows are still closed though. Here's a link to the dates the pass opens and closes: http://www.monobasinresearch.org/data/tiogapass.htm

Suzie - Thanks for your help, will check out the link.

We were in the Napa Valley for a 40th birthday celebration this past March. Her is what my niece wrote about this place in Yountville. We stayed there and found it quite nice. Great location, nice deck on which to have a glass of wine, and very reasonably priced.
Maison Fleure - B & B
Rooms available range from $150-$200 - they are small (think European) but very warmly decorated and they have a very nice gathering space downstairs. Do not require a 2-night minimum. Note: the sink in the rooms is outside the shower/toilet area - but it's really cute & manageable (in my opinion).
(800) 788-0369
www.foursisters.com

Yosemite Valley should be nice that time of year - a little chilly, but the waterfalls should be spectacular with all the snow melt. Also, the crowds wont be like they are in the summer. Definitely spend a few days there if you can.

Good tips, thank you. This will be our first trip to California from the UK and though we have done some research, it is always useful to learn from other peoples' experiences. Avoiding the crowds was one of our considerations, but Lin is concerned that many facilities will not be open and that it might be too chilly for middle-aged non-pioneering types! Thoughts, please. Rog.

Unless you were thinking to bring a tent, it won't be a problem.

Yosemite's termperature is extremely changeable, April could be balmy, or snowbound, you won't know until the time draws near.

We had a very late spring this year, but usually April is when the weather is just starting to sharpen up and get nice. Otherwise, it will be just like London, but without most of the rain.