France 2012 Guidebook
Best and worst sights, experiences and destinations:
Best: Paris museum pass
Why: Purchasing the pass allowed to bypass the ticket lines - particularly at the Louvre where we entered via the group entrance in the pedestrian passageway between the pyramid and rue de Rivoli. A great time saver!
Jeff Evans in Springfield, IL USA 01/13/2012
Best: Versailles & Lunch at A la Cote Bretonne
Why: We loved spending the day at the palace and walking the grounds. We ate lunch at the creperie restaunt called A la Cote Bretonne. It was easy to go from Paris to Versaille by train.
Micki Turner in Chicago, IL USA 12/17/2011
Best: Aiguille du Midi gondola
Why: It's expensive, but worth it, especially on a clear day. Dress warm if you're going up in fall. Was told it can be a 2-3 hour wait during peak season.
Kay Ishii in Renton, WA USA 10/30/2011
Best: D-Day Beaches, Normandy, 2011 book, p.289
Why: This is a MUST SEE/EXPERIENCE for every American, Canadian and British. It was such a valuable and profound experience. What these young men sacrificed to save the free world cannot be underestimated and is cause for pause (and tears). Experiencing Omaha Beach will change you, I promise. We took the Viking Tour in a minivan, which was excellent.
Worst: St. Joan of Arc Museum, Rouen, 2011 book, p. 251
Why: Although it tells Joan's story, it's hokey.
Maureen in Tempe, AZ USA 10/22/2011
Best: Ways of getting around Paris
Why: I hadn't been there for 9 years, so found your recommendations about the Batobus and the #69 both very useful. I've always been a Metro fan, but now have other great options!
Kate in Sonoma, CA USA 09/16/2011
Best: Opening my window in the Hotel Jardin de Eiffel and seeing the Eiffel Tower out my window. Even my bathroom had a great view! I couldn't even sleep the first night it was so beautiful
Why: I had been to France 17 years ago and it was not all that friendly to Americans. It is very different now and I can't wait to go back.
Worst: The train ride from the airport to our hotel
Why: It was too crowded and the luggage was in everyone's way. Although it was very inexpensive.
Donna Fraser in Orlando, Fl USA 09/10/2011
Best: Grotte de Faunt de Gaume
Why: Mind blowing experience-makes you think differently about "primitive" art;try to see the movie "Cave of Forgotten Dreams" before visiting the caves, it adds another dimension to the experience; sadly it sounds like these caves will also be closing in the next few years
Worst: Chambord Chateau
Why: Impressive from the outside but not much on the inside;we regretted paying the entrance fee..most rooms are completely empty; we preferred Chenonceaux and Cheverny; but it's worth seeing from the outside , and the restaurant Hotel du Grande St Michel tied for best meal (lunch) during our 2 week trip
A Forster in Miami, FL USA 08/21/2011
Best: Monet's Water Lilies at the Orangerie./View from the top if Arc de Triomphe
Why: Monet's water lilies. I had no idea they were so huge. Stunning works to see in person. Glad we got the Museum Pass as I would have likely bypassed this museum. /Arc de Triomphe-- A real photographic highlight. Felt comfortable asking other tourists to snap photos of us.
Maureen in Grayslake, il USA 07/18/2011
Best: Sainte-Chapelle (Paris)
Why: The stained glass is mesmerizing.
Worst: Versailles
Why: Even in April this was a zoo. If I had it to do again, I would go to Chartres instead. In any case the interior has a vacant/rundown look. Stick to the gardens.
Gary P in Ramona, CA USA 06/20/2011
Best: Hotel Florets-Gigondas
Why: We loved this hotel and the beautiful area surrounding it. Easy to walk to the village and the dinner there is wonderful.
Worst: Hotel Colbert-Avignon
Why: The bed was large and comfortable. The owner has an indifferent attitude. Granted, the hotel is just a two star. We politely inquired about getting actual glass glasses for our wine-a flat no was the response but additional plastic ones were available. The garden area looked inviting....but, all the chair seats had been removed-obviously no use of the garden.
Susan Jennings in Atlanta, Ge USA 06/15/2011
Best: Font de Gaume cave
Why: Unique experience, tiny groups (mine had 7 people), amazing prehistoric heritage of all humanity
Worst: Lyon
Why: Not much to do. Plesant enough, but no more interesting than Bordeaux or Toulouse.
Michael Boerm in Waco, TX USA 06/11/2011
Best: Beynac,Carcassonne at night,driving the Route du Vin,nitetime bike ride in Paris
Why: Got some good pic's of Beynac castle,hiked to La Roque-Gageac then kayaked back.Great day!Wandering around Carcassonne at night.Wow.I live in the Calif. wine country,so to see how they've been doing it for hundreds of years around Colmar was really nice.It was my 3rd time in Paris,so I was looking for something differant.The bike ride through Paris at night was exactly what I was look for.Lots of fun!
Worst: Nothing!!
Why: As usual,with your always helpful guide books,everything went great.
Brad in Santa Rosa, Ca USA 06/10/2011
Best: Collioure, cro magnon caves, and Caune Minervois, and St. Emilion if you love wine
Why: I enjoyed all of the places I visited in southwest France. Thanks to Rick for the great recommendations. Collioure was a beautiful place to hang out and relax near the water. Caune Minevois is an excellent alternative to touristy Carcasonne. The town is nice and the surrounding areas were very interesting. I thought the Chateaux of Lastours were as good and more accessible than those of Haute Corbieres. St. Emilion and the surrounding areas were great for wine lovers. The tastings there were a lot of fun. I learned a lot during the two cro magnon caves tours I took. It pays to book in advance for them to ensure you can get in to an English tour.
Jim Perschbacher in Atlanta, GA USA 06/04/2011
Best: Honfleur
Why: Even more charming than I expected from Rick's effusive praise, and so many nice restaurants...parking is very expensive, though (around 6 euros for approx 2 hours in the big surface lot near the water)...
Worst: Rouen (visiting via car)
Why: Although Rick mentions in passing in the guidebook the difficulties in driving into central Rouen, I will never make that mistake again! Horrible traffic and poor / limited parking options - the underground garages are a nightmare, much too small and narrow for anything but the tiniest of vehicles...Rouen is just not worth a special effort to visit - in addition to the car park problem, I thought it was a charmless city.
John Russell in Charlottesville, VA USA 06/02/2011
Best: Ville franche sur mer
Why: Great homebase location, close and easy access via train and bus along the Riviera. Inexpensive 5 min train ride to Nice or one hour to Grasse. Low key, wonderful and firnedly restaurants, especially Le Serre. It is a picture perfect site to relax and just take in the local scenery.
Susan in Tacoma, WA USA 05/30/2011
Worst: Mason Martin Jund in Colmar
Why: The place is dirty. We found dead bugs in the drawers,and hair on the bathroom floor and toothpaste on the bathroom door and thick dust on all surfaces. The place is beyond ramshackle. We left after one night of a 6 night reservation.
Theresa in Petaluma, CA USA 05/24/2011
Best: Giverney and L'Orangerie
Why: Combination ticket package helpful for saving money and time, but best of all, the chance to see Claude Monet's masterpieces!
Robbie in Grady, NH USA 05/08/2011
Best: Normandy D-Day Sights
Why: It's was our third visit to Normandy so we revisited some places. However,new to us was Ste Mere Eglise (great church and museum) Utah Beach, and and the small village of Angoville au Plain where a church was used by 2 American medics as an aid station after the invasion. Stained glass windows are dedicated to the men. Angoville is east of Ste Mere Eglise on the Cotentin Peninsula.
Judy Johnson in Alexandria, MN USA 04/25/2011
Best: Amboise as a home base in the Loire Valley.
Why: It was a charming village with a huge castle, a wonderful outdoor fruit/veggie market next to the Loire River, good places to shop & eat, and a lot of close sightseeing.
G Sellers in Melbourne , FL USA 04/14/2011
Best: Overlord Tour Guides, Normandy
Why: We were SO impressed with our guide- he knew so much about everything - from the big picture to the personal - from the battles to the Nazis to the Germans to the Jews to the French civilians. He made everything so interesting and we enjoyed his sense of humor. He went out of his way to find information on burial place of an uncle of the other group on our tour. The day was packed and yet not rushed. An excellent experience and we'd do it again.
We really felt like the tour was the highlight of our 11-day trip to France. We definitely want to come back and spend more time in Normandy and will, without a doubt, contact you.
Patricia Stenzel in Arlington, VA USA 04/12/2011
Best: Mont St. Michel
Why: The book's tips on the best times to visit Mont St. Michel were invaluable. We arrived at about 5 p.m., and there was a huge stream of tourists *leaving* for the day, always a welcome sight. We spend the night, and wandering around the ramparts both late at night and right around sunrise the next morning was probably the highlight of 3 trips to Europe so far.
Kristina in Wilton, NY USA 04/10/2011
Best: Collioure, France
Why: I had planned on two days in May 2010, but thanks to the rail strike, decided to settle in and stayed for 9! My lavabo on the edge of the Med gave me plenty of time to just watch the colors of the sea and sky and the maneuvers of the commandos. Very restful atmosphere, even on market days. Plenty to explore on foot. I met several ex-pats who shared their stories of how they found this paradise.
Gail in Concord, NH USA 02/15/2011
Best: The area around the Notre Dame, Marais and Latin Quarter. Louvre
Why: The area where the 4th and 5th entwine around the river Siene is a magical place. It feels like the heart of Paris. There is more energy here than in any other area we walked in. We loved the restaurants, the shops, the people, the architecture, the ice cream! Walking from the Pompidou Museum to the Luxembourg gardens was our favorite experience, second only to our trip to the Louvre.
The Louvre was a surreal experience for me. I am an art lover and many of the paintings that taught me to love the medium are hanging in this museum. I beheld these masterpieces with the same awe and reverence that comes over the very religious at pilgrimage sites. Standing across the broad stair case from the Winged Victory and seeing in the stone a piece of artwork that I had admired for over a decade moved me to tears and it is an experience I will never forget. This is but one of the many experiences my husband and I had in the Louvre and I do not think we were alone. I think many of us know this art and to see it in preson is a priviledge. As corny as it all sounds, the Louvre was, to me, an accumulation of many of man's finest achievements and I actually stood in awe of them all.
The building itself is also stunning and the history of it is really interesting to learn.
Worst: Eiffel Tower
Why: I know, I know, it's the Eiffel tower! The symbol of Paris. How dare I not like it?! But alas, I did indeed not like it. It is actually quite ugly up close, crowded with tourists and dirty. The lines to get up the thing are insane and truthfully just not worth it!
Furthermore, the area around it is nothing but scammers selling junk to tourists. I had the only experience in my entire life where I had to physically shove someone trying to sell me something. A man came up to me and put something on my finger, I disengaged myself from him, told him I did not want his string and to please leave me alone, both in English and in French. He kept getting in my way and physcially grabbing me, my husband even stepped in and asked him to please leave me alone (he wasn't as nice as that but you get the picture) finally I gave up and physically pushed him off me, cussed at him in French and walked away. He insulted us as we walked away but he left us alone after that. I was already disapointed with the monument but that sort of put the frosting on my cupcake.
Oddly enough it was the place I felt to be less Parisian in the entire city. Now, standing from a distance and seeing the lights twinkle is an entirely different story. The tower is best viewed from afar, away from the chachky selling scamers and clumps of tourists.
Emma Alvarez in Redmond, WA USA 02/07/2011
Best: Colmar
Why: We'd never heard of Colmar...it was perfect. We liked the Hotel Turenne for a good value and location. And we loved the Wistub La Petite Venise for dinner.
Worst: Driving to Charles de Gaulle Airport
Why: It would be helpful to have just some brief advice about how terribly difficult it is to figure out how to drop a car off when returning it to CDG...even when you can see the rental area, it is very hard to drive to it. And a warning about how the signs in French aren't helpful getting you to the proper area if you aren't a French speaker.
Cheryl Rollin in Seattle , WA USA 01/14/2011
Best: Amboise
Why: Even without a car, this little town was a charming place to come home to from a day of touring the Val de Loire. Thank you for steering us here, instead of to Tours, as most guides suggest.
Jay Novick in New York, NY USA 12/16/2010
Worst: Peche de Andre for wine tasting
Why: The wines that were offered for tasting were not very good...
Dianne Milligan in Halifax, NS USA 12/07/2010
Worst: Roel from Victory Tours driving...
Why: way too fast on slick roads on the way home after the tour in the rain...after a beer ...
Pete Hall in Haddonfield, NJ USA 11/27/2010
Worst: Roel from Victory Tours driving...
Why: way too fast on slick roads on the way home after the tour in the rain...after a beer ...
Pete Hall in Haddonfield, NJ USA 11/27/2010
Best: Mike Fijken's Wine Safari in Provence
Why: Mike really knows Provence and the wine industry. He takes you into the countryside to vineyards and wineries and is a wonderful teacher. Not to be missed for the travel commentary as well as the wine tasting.
Worst: Arles
Why: Arles, as noted by another recent contributor, is a rather frightening place. Depending on your hotel, you have to walk down narrow dark deserted streets, dodging racing cars which press you against the wall. Also, recent changes restrict rail service between Avignon and Arles making Arles much less attractive as a base for exploring Provence.
Jack and Sulie in Olympia, WA USA 11/20/2010
Best: La Cite, Carcassonne
Why: What an experience to actually stay inside a walled fortress such as La Cite. It was like King Arthur or Robin Hood. We loved every minute, especially early in the morning or after dark without the larger groups of people. A once in a lifetime experience.
Al & Mary Hermansen in Delano, MN USA 11/17/2010
Best: Guedelon Castle
Why: It's fascinating to see how they're building a castle using 12th century tools and technology! Great for kids too!
Marcia in Spokane, WA USA 10/23/2010
Worst: Ubiquitous Cigarette Smoke
Why: As people sensitive to 2nd-hand smoke,we were unprepared and disgusted by this. we believe we got sick as a result of it. I guess it's bad for your business to make this better known to travellers, but this is one area of culture in which the French definitely lag behind us.
Stuart Kirsh in Foresthill , CA USA 10/20/2010
Best: Chateau de Pray in Amboise-fantastic!
Why: They make you feel as if it's your family's Chateau. The grounds are sumptuous and so relaxing after a long day of touring.
Worst: Returning our rental car to Geneva Airport-French side
Why: We rented our Europe Car in Paris through Auto Europe and returned it to Geneva Airport -French side. In addition to paying a $40 fee at the Geneva customs station in order to drive about 5 miles through Geneva to the airport, we couldn't find the French side car drop off. There are no signs anywhere until you actually arrive at the drop off point. My step-daughter, who speaks fluid French, asked directions of 2 airport employees. After 1 hour of circling the airport, we finally found the drop off point. Could someone provide directions in your book on French side Geneva airport drops offs? I'm still not sure how we got there.
Elyse Cole in Carlsbad, CA USA 10/17/2010
Best: Day trip to wine village of Kayersberg, near Colmar
Why: Attractive, quaint, lovely relaxed destination for a day trip and accessible by bus from Colmar for those without a car
Sylvia Grant in Osceola, WI USA 10/15/2010
Best: Rick's audio guides of Versailles, the Louvre and the walking tour of Paris
Why: They covered the highlights in an informative and fun manner...and were just the right length.
Lyn Taylor in Brooksville, FL USA 10/12/2010
Best: 1.Mont St Michel and 2.Giverny
Why: 1.We followed your advise and avoided the crowds by taking the stairs, it was magical. 2.We bought our tickets in Paris and arrived early as you said and we felt like we had the place to ourselves, it was all in the timing.
Worst: Caen
Why: Arrived at the hotel and there is no parking in the entire area, we paid a cancellation fee and left town, just couldn't deal with spending the time, just to park.
Chris Mayes in Carson City, NV USA 09/19/2010
Best: Abbey Fontevraud
Why: I really think this is a three triangle site. The history of the abbey is fascinating, and seeing Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II and Richard the Lionhearted is a must for anyone who likes English history.
Worst: Trying to drive in the Dordogne
Why: In the summer, Dordogne is swamped with tourists, mostly French vacationers. We got stuck in a number of maddening traffic jams, and also found it impossible to park in Sarlat during the day. The beauty of the area is marred by the crowds and traffic.
Diana Lucio in Alexandria, VA USA 08/16/2010
Best: i was surprised ...but i loved Notre Dame the best
Why: it was just awesome ..the beauty of the stained glass, the music , the ringing of the bells, seeing the gargoyles,the breath taking view of Paris ( we climbed the stairs) ..it just was such a fitting end to our last night .and i have been to other cathedrals but this topped them all!
Worst: nothing! or having to come home!
Why: we loved every minute !
Mary Greene in St. Simons Island, GA USA 08/13/2010
Best: Battle Bus Tour of D-Day Beaches & American Cemetery
Why: The guide's presentation was indeed riveting. The explanations were clear and the group was small. We learned a lot, and the overall effect was profound. The only little detraction was lunch. Be prepared for a crappy sandwich from a roadside stand and the possibility of having to eat it standing up. But compared with the rest of the tour, this was a small inconvenience.
Linda in Garden City, NY USA 08/05/2010
Best: Chamonix
Why: The Alps, Mt Blanc and the wonderful Multipass that lets you ride all the lifts for however long you'll need them. This town is happy to have every last one of us come and enjoy ourselves in their beautiful mountains. Awe inspiring!
Worst: Annecy
Why: Over touristed. This town seems to want to go about its business without all the stupid tourists messing it up. I say let them have it!
Ann Gillen in Yountville, CA USA 07/14/2010
Best: Route de Vin
Why: I've seen the New York State vinyards by Lake Erie, but they are not a patch on the vinyards from horizon to horizon, and marching up the hillsides in Alsace.
Worst: The Swiss road tax
Why: We rented our car in Paris, and one day decided to visit Luzerne. We were stopped at the border and ordered the pay one year's worth of the Swiss road tax, 40 euros, before proceeding. We had people waiting for us in Luzern, so we coughed up, but were in Switzerland less than 24 hours. Ouch!
Candy Marang in Norton, Oh USA 07/02/2010
Best: Balloon trip in the Loire Valley
Why: This company should be mentioned. They are smaller therefore only use 4-6 person baskets allowing a family of 4 to have the balloon to themselves. The other companies mentioned in the book throw you into a 16 person basket with a loud tour group for company.
Worst: The Old Centre walk in Marais area, Paris
Why: Too long and too crowded. It needs shortened. When you bring the line ups into play and crowds even with the prepurchased pass, it takes way longer than 4 hours, more like 8.
James Mangin in Red Deer, AB Canada 07/02/2010
Best: Bus 69 sightseeing tour
Why: Cheap and definitely a way to experience Paris like the locals
Worst: Sacre Cour
Why: unfortunately on a warm summer's day the stench of urine is pretty overpowering.
Marilyn Mueda in South San Francisco, CA USA 06/29/2010
Best: Mont St. Michel
Why: We loved the hint about missing the crowds and taking the left just past the drawbridge to get to the Abbey. It save a LOT of time when there is so much to see. We arrived just in time for the English tour.
Worst: Joan of Arc Church - Rouen
Why: We missed it! It looked like a modern public restroom, and we were parked right next to it! Obviously we missed the sign too, but we weren't sure what we were looking for.
Marilyn in Cypress, TX USA 06/27/2010
Best: The Loire-Amboise and Dordogne-Sarlat
Why: Thanks to the book we visited these areas and loved the small villages and markets, beautiful country and river valleys, great B&Bs and local restaurants. The TI offices were very helpful in both villages and we even purchased maps for our own day hike on the Grande Randonnée.
Depending on the amount we wanted to spend for dinner, we turned to the book for the appropriate recommendations and found them to be very accurate.
Ginger Bigbie in Gainesville, FL USA 06/26/2010
Best: Normandy
Why: We went on the 3 to 6 June and the enormous outpouring of appreciation from the French people was amazing and gratifying. This was the 66th Anniv of D-Day but the French came out in droves. There was a massive airborne landing in St Mere Eglise. Me and a million or so French people were there.
Jim Carr in Ridgecrest, CA USA 06/23/2010
Best: rue cler
Why: what a wonderful neighborhood, we have stayed two years in a row. it is the perfect family spot to explore paris. we could enjoy late dinners on terrace of one of the many cafes while our daughter rode her "trotinette" (scooter) up and back the pedestrian street.
Worst: Paris Canal Tour
Why: Kept captive for 3 hours while we inched thru endless locks and passed the underbelly of greater Paris including polluted waters and a slum with iraqi refugees. very very bad. avoid at all cost
jim in winter park, f USA 06/20/2010
Best: Paris (haven't seen the rest of France YET)
Why: Beautiful,clean city. Easy to navigate via public busses, metro, train, and especially by foot. Loved the suggested walks and did several, long with my own. Set out each morning with a map and explored. Loved walking down the Rue St. Domanique to the St. Germain des Pres area and beyond. Admired the Chestnut Trees which were in full bloom along all the streets and avenues, and in the parks.
Every French person I encountered (without exception) was extremely pleasant, polite, courteous, and helpful. I cannot emphasize that enough. Don't know where the opposite reputation came from.
This was my second visit to Paris, but this time I was able to explore and meander on my own for 5 days. My first trip 10 years ago was with a friend for 3 days, and we had only time to see the "highlights."
I am totally, totally in love with the city and people of Paris.
Judith Beck in Perkasie, PA USA 05/29/2010
Best: Bastide de la Brague Antibes
Why: warm welcome by hosts, excellent meals, comfortable accomodation.
Tony Green in Sidmouth, UK 05/26/2010
Best: Your cautionary tales about rip-off artists in France
Why: My daughter (aged 19) is in France studying. She bought your guide and read parts of it to me. She carefully studied the con-games that she needed to watch for. And guess what: two men tried the bracelet scheme on her.
She's a slip of a girl, always wearing a huge grin, so she's an easy mark, or so you would think. These men tried to grab her arm to which she politely asked them: "Parlez-vous anglais?" They said "yes," to whit she replied with, "Good. Put that bracelet on me and I will punch you in the face!"
Oh did I mention she's a black belt in karate?
Thanks for helping to protect my daughter, as you know "being forewarned is being forearmed."
Max M Thomas in Montrose, MI USA 05/25/2010
Best: Rue Cler Walk
Why: We felt we had entered Paris life as it used to be and enjoyed it tremendously. My two teen-aged sons loved the area and said good job, Mom, which was music to my ears.
Worst: Normany Sightseeing Tours
Why: Should have listened to Rick about Normandy Sightseeing Tours. Our guide was inexperienced and very poor. It was supposed to be the highlight of our trip and it was not. We would have been better in a rental car with a guide book.
Joy Lambert in Vero Beach, FL USA 05/21/2010
Best: La Ferme du Pressoir
Why: Great rooms and baths, but best of is Odile, our friendly hostess, who despite not speaking English, answered all our question, provided maps and guides to area attractions, restrauants and provided the best breakfasts of our entire trip. It is a great base to visit Normandy and return to a quiet, relaxed and hospitable surrondings.
mary knoke in kingsford, mi USA 05/13/2010
Best: Mont-Saint-Michel
Why: We had high expectations, but they were exceeded in almost every way. The abbey itself is fascinating, especially with the excellent audio guide to help with interpretation. The audio guide allows one to select a basic overview for each station, or press a button for more detailed descriptions. Even in late March, the "town" became somewhat congested during the day. We had visited the night before, and it was very enjoyable wandering around without the throngs from the tour buses. We had a scare that our car had been stolen, not realizing that the barrier marking the end of the parking lot had been moved while we were away.
Jay Fluehr in Omaha, NE USA 05/07/2010
Best: Isle La Sourge
Why: Quaint town that is the perfect base to visit the surrounding towns of the Luberon.
Worst: Avignon
Why: Not impressed with this town and the Papal palace. If you have limited time in Provence, skip this town.
Jen Lee in San Francisco, CA USA 05/06/2010
Best: Arles
Why: Interesting, lots of history, everyone is extremely friendly. It is wonderful to picnic by the Rhone.
Ruth Hund in Golden, CO USA 04/25/2010
Best: Rent a car in Rouen, not Paris
Why: WE had planned to use all trains but that got time consuming so found that it was quite easy to pick up a car in Rouen and to return it to Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris
Kay Clarey in Cheverly, MD USA 02/06/2010
Best: Rent a car in Rouen, not Paris
Why: WE had planned to use all trains but that got time consuming so found that it was quite easy to pick up a car in Rouen and to return it to Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris
Kay Clarey in Cheverly, MD USA 02/06/2010
Best: Canoeing on the Dorgogne
Why: Wonderful experience with incredible scenery, castles, cliffs, walnut groves and fields of corn.
Craig Steinfeld in Morrison, CO USA 01/31/2010
Worst: Old Town in Vaisson La Romaine
Why: Roman Bridge was closed for repairs in October.
Ed & Rita Reed in Port Aransas, TX USA 01/19/2010
Best: Colmar, Alsace Villages
Why: Beautiful
Worst: Strasbourg Cathedral Clock
Why: It was unclear to us from the guidebook that the clock was inside, so we missed it. Maybe next time.
Ed & Rita Reed in Port Aransas, TX USA 01/19/2010
Best: Riding the regular buses as tour buses
Why: Cheap and convenient, and the views couldn't be beat.
Worst: Sainte Chappelle
Why: I thought 8 euros for two rooms was exorbitant. Maybe I was jaundiced by the restoration work they're doing which had most of the altar end closed off, so you really couldn't get the jewelbox effect I've seen in pictures. Of everything, this was what I was most disappointed in.
Marilyn in Eddy, Oh USA 12/29/2009
Best: Dordogne is wonderful the last week in September.
Why: The weather was beautiful - low 60's, the canoing was so scenic and there were hardly any tourists.
Peg Donahue in Palatine, IL USA 12/06/2009
Best: Eiffel Tower
Why: Probably the most fun attraction in Paris. If you're reasonably fit (you don't need to be an athlete, and my 8-year-old daughter did it) I highly recommend climbing to the second level of the Tower. It's cheaper, good exercise, no line, you get a feeling of accomplishment and it's REALLY fun.
Dave in Philadelphia, PA USA 12/01/2009
Best: St. Michel
Why: Beautiful in spite of the touristy shops.
Gerald Kilbert in Elk Grove, CA USA 11/20/2009
Worst: Picasso Museum
Why: Closed August 2009 for 2 years for renovation
Marianne Kurtz in Union, KY USA 11/11/2009
Best: Chamonix
Why: Great sights, hiking Midi and Mont Blanc
kathy in san francisco, ca USA 10/29/2009
Best: Chenonceau Chateau
Why: The setting is just amazing.
Worst: None
Why: Mr. Steves does a great job.
Richard Perkins in Pleasant Hill, CA USA 10/29/2009
Best: Scenic drive between Mont St. Michel and Dinan.
Why: Very pretty seaside villages and coastal views, enjoyed it very much.
June in Thousand Oaks, CA USA 10/28/2009
Best: The D-Day museums and cemeteries.
Why: They were continually saying thank you to us Americans for what we accomplished there many years ago. As a US veteran my husband was welcomed, without entrance fees, to museums everywhere.
Jim & Arlene Knutson in Bloomington, MN USA 10/26/2009
Best: Creperie Ahna, Dinan
Why: The crepes were wonderful, as was the pierrades. A wonderful "taste of Brittany".
Larry Neal in Warren, PA USA 10/21/2009
Best: Biking the vineyards around Beune
Why: Delightful countryside, quiet roads and the lady atBourgone Randonee was very helpful. She recommended a fabulous restaurant, mid price range, excellent food called L'Eccuson. Also loved the organ concert at St Suplice
Worst: Mont St Michel
Why: Disgustingly tourist rip off although such a spectacular setting how can you not stop.
Debra in Delta, BC Canada 10/20/2009
Best: Nice
Why: incredibly beautiful city
Worst: rural Provence
Why: We went to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, St. Remy, and Les Baux, the only ones we could reach easily by bus. Though interesting, they didn't find them nearly as interesting as similar locations in Italy.
John Vogt in Ft. Collins, CO USA 10/19/2009
Best: surprised at how beautiful the Army Museum was
Why: The French have gotten a bad rap...they were very friendly and polite. The Metro was great, but we really enjoyed wandering the streets of Paris to find our way. The Musem Pass was easy to get at the airport and was very much worthwhile.
Sherri Campbell in Katy, Tx USA 10/18/2009
Best: Manoir de Montesquiou, Gorge du Tarn
Why: We felt like a king and queen in this elegant manorhouse. Meals were excellent but expensive. Thanks for this tip. You can't beat the Tarn River for spectacular scenery!
Jacquie Moffett in Laguna Beach, ca USA 10/17/2009
Best: Colmar, Annecy, Lyon
Why: Beautiful cities with gorgeous scenery. For such a large city, Lyon was especially nice, like a smaller Paris. We loved them all.
Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 10/14/2009
Best: canoeing the Dordogne
Why: fun, relaxing, great scenery,
Adrienne in Vienna, Va USA 10/14/2009
Best: CHATEAU DES ALLUES B&B in Savoie, France
Why: magnificient renovated Savoyan Chateau, with incredible decoration made of antics, paintings, and objets de charme.... panoramic view on the mountains, diner is possible in our Dining room
VANDEVILLE in Saint Pierre d Albigny, 73 France 10/13/2009
Best: Dordogne Canoe Trip - Carsac to Beynac and Gouffre de Padirac
Why: We lucked out with excellent weather. Got the 10% reduction because we had the book with us. Loved all the chateaus and castles along the river route. The tour guides at Gouffre de Padirac did speak English to the 6 of us when we let her know that we were English speaking. We appreciated the effort on her part.
Martha in Calgary, Canada 10/03/2009
Best: Route du Vin
Why: The most scenic and beautiful drive you can imagine. We visited just a few towns and could have gone back another day if time permitted. Our favorite town was Eguisheim - it must be visited in person to really enjoy this beautiful town. Kayserberg was also a real treat - we would go back at any time.
Al & Mary Hermansen in Delano, MN USA 09/28/2009
Best: Bike riding in Annecy and Canoeing the Dordogne
Why: The scenery in Annecy is spectacular, the bike bath around the lake is paved and an easy ride. Being right on the water provides a different perspective of the beautiful villages along the way.
Worst: Arles
Why: Dirty, dull and a big let down after seeing so many beautiful, flower-filled French villages.
Vickie Sprowls in Lake Nebagamon, WI USA 09/22/2009
Best: Too many to mention but the recommendations for Paris were spot on from the museums to the hotel.
Why: The section on Paris was helpful and straightforward.
Mimi Simon in Edmonton, AB Canada 09/18/2009
Best: experiencing the local culture
Why: We took our 17 and 15 year old granddaughters and in addition to the sites they got to experience things tourist normally would not experience.
Jim Colgan in Bixby, OK USA 08/15/2009
Best: Dordogne kayak trip, taxi tour by Philippe to prehistoric caves
Why: The Dordogne river trip was so much fun! It took me longer than the estimates in the book, but I had a blast and perfect weather. It was the highlight of my whole trip! I also enjoyed a taxi tour to the prehistoric caves with Philippe in Sarlat. He was very knowledgeable about the caves and spoke very good English. I also enjoyed market day in Sarlat and walking around Carcassonne's walls.
Kyla Gurganus in Ypsilanti, MI USA 08/11/2009
Best: Puycelsi
Why: I used to think that Civita di Bagnoregio in Italy was the perfect hilltop village. Now I think it is Puycelsi. We just had a perfect stay in this perfect village.
Worst: Nothing was bad, but Arles might have been the biggest disappointment
Why: The cobblestone streets are paved over. Seriously, after being in so many perfect medeivel villages in SW France, I couldn't figure out why Arles didn't measure up until I looked down. Arles seems gritty and tired, and the Roman ruins didn't quite save it. Next time - more Provence countryside and less city!
Bob DenOuden in Eugene, OR USA 08/05/2009
Best: Mt St Michel and Carcassonne at night.
Why: Both sights were wonderful but ONLY AT NIGHT, as you suggested. Arrive after 5PM, stay the night and leave early. This is an absolute must. Otherwise you will hate what would otherwise be a wonderful experience.
Worst: Chinon castle
Why: Not horrible, but nothing really to see. It's scant ruins without atmosphere.
Randy in Mineapolis, MN USA 07/29/2009
Best: Paris
Why: Its amazing
Web in edmonds, wa USA 07/24/2009
Best: Catedrale d'image
Why: Truly an extraordinary dreamlike experience to see Picasso's works projected onto 35 to 40 foot high cave sandstone walls
Craig Matsu-Pissot in Vancouver, BC Canada 07/22/2009
Best: Roussillon & Loumarin
Why: The first is beautiful (if a bit too touristy), and the second is so lovely and tranquil. I want to move there!
Susan in Toluca Lake, CA USA 07/12/2009
Best: Rue Cler and Hotel Leveque
Why: The location is so handy. We had fun assembling our picnic and eating in the park by the Eiffel Tower, then walking across the river and watching the light show at 10:00 PM and walking back to the hotel and not feeling afraid. We were 3 women having a great time.
Worst: the Greek lady at the creperie
Why: I need to tell you that on the day before we ate there, my sister talked to a real nice man who was making crepes there. He spoke English, and when my sister mentioned you and that we planned to eat there later, he was very gracious and said you are a very good friend. That must have been Vassilis.
Barbara Barnett in Fort Worth, TX USA 06/27/2009
Best: Omaha Beach & Visitor Center
Why: Don't really need to explain; this was a memorable year to visit here. Absolutely the most poignant and emotional place we visited. The Visitor Center is Excellent, enormously informative and the layout truly makes it a personal experience. We thought we had a pretty good background of information before we came but there is just massive amounts of information available there; it is worth every minute to take your time and move slowly through it. The monument to The National Guard was a nice and memorable surprise, also.
Worst: Mont St Michel
Why: Rick warned us about this, but we had to see it anyway. HUGE waste of time, way too much of everything bad about tourism and way too many people, even on a cold, raw, rainy day. The Normandy beaches are a million times more interesting, and very accessible.
Laura & Dave in Clayton, CA USA 06/26/2009
Best: Bayeux tapestry museum
Why: It was so well done-- a surprise
Nikki Rajala in Rockville, MN USA 06/23/2009
Best: Eiffel Tower
Why: Better than expected
Worst: Arles and Nimes and Avignon and 'TERRORISM AND AGGRESSION" and the Mistral
Why: I was scared, being away from a tourist group and traveling alone. The market in Arles is OVERRATED. I would NOT recommend it. Any town here with a Saturday market is the same almost.
There were fights in train station in Nimes. NOTE: DANGER IN SOUTHERN FRANCE-- Local train from Avignon to Isle-sur-la-Sorge was delayed as a precaution against "terrorism and aggression" according to the Security Guard. It was delayed twice, then switched to a second train and took off immediately 50 minutes before they said--all as a precaution against things being thrown against the train and fights. There were fights in train station in Nimes and Avignon, security guards and dogs and whistles. Scared out of my mind. Why? Racial issues or the economy, but very scary. I HATED IT. Did not know France was a Third World country, so poor, I hated Arles and Nimes, it should be mentioned they are poor 1 block away from tourist stops.
Biking in Isle-sur-la Sorge--Bike shop great, wind so bad we barely made it back before closing. Absolutely cannot bike in that wind and that should be known. What would have taken 3 hours maximum turned into 6. That should be said--NOT PLEASANT TO BIKE ON LIGHT-WEIGHT BIKES IN 50-60 MPH GUSTS ALL DAY
Linda Beilstein in Corvallis, OR USA 06/22/2009
Best: D-Day tour with Victory Tours
Why: Our tour guide, Roel, was enthusiastic, well-informed, funny and passionate about D-Day. Our small group was treated to an unforgettable tour of the best D-Day sites for a reasonable price.
Worst: Dinan
Why: We made a special side trip to visit this city in Brittany, which the guide tours as a "must see". It was OK, with a typical meideval city center, but nothing to write home (or write a guide book) about.
Steven Hauser in Atlanta, GA USA 06/13/2009
Best: Jaquemart Andre
Why: A totally romantic spot and story with a very fine art collection and a wonderful cafe with a terrasse, medieval tapestries and Sevres vases. Best lunch we ate in Paris...smoked salmon and shrimp with salmon mousse and caviar stuffed tomatoes accompanied by gold potatoes and herb kissed creme fraiche. Very generous portions for the French. Deserts are equally delightful with a choice of over a dozen fresh tarts and cakes. The hot chocolate is so rich that five of us shared it!
Worst: Les Halles and St Denis
Why: Les Halles is really not safe at night as the bainlieu kids roam and riot at will. Its a huge disorienting building where it is hard to find the stores. St Denis is a sex trade street nearby. Great place if you like Brazilian transvestites.
Mary Ruiz in Bradenton, Fl USA 06/11/2009
Best: Font-de-Gaume
Why: Cro-Magnon cave - worth the price of the entire trip. our guide was a history major
Worst: Eiffel Tower
Why: Not really that cool and the gauntlet of trinket sellers we had to run was pretty annoying And Mona was much cooler-no line in May by the way
Jody Distad in Denver, CO USA 06/07/2009
Best: Villages of the Cotes du Rhone in Provence
Why: Unexpectedly beautiful and pristine. Great wine, good food and all around amazing experience. In general, excellent recommendations of the Provence area.
Sbloom in Dallas, TX USA 06/02/2009
Best: Chamonix
Why: I've been to lots of high mountain ski resorts around the world but this one was by far the best! We were lucky to catch the mountain on a clear and calm day.
Paul Beck in Cupertino, Ca USA 06/01/2009
Best: Alet
Why: Beautiful views of the boats moored at low tide, spectacular sunset and great walking on the path that overlooks everything. The WWII memorials and remnants were a somber bonus, plus the old relics of centuries past. We had moules-frites at a friendly little local bar where we were the only tourists. (I will try to find the name of it if you are interested.
Kathy Wilson in Indialantic, FL USA 05/08/2009
Best: Albi - go!
Why: Albi's Cathedral here was AMAZING- most travelers can get weary of seeing the same old thing- but this place is unique. The fresco of the last judgement is creepy, stylized and original. The town has some real beauty- a lazy river flanked by romantic architecture and manicured gardens (some of my best photos were taken here). The cloisters were ancient and peaceful, as few crowds come to this town (a little dull at night if traveling alone). I came for the Toulouse Lautrec museum but was pleased by so many other things.
Worst: Amboise / Arles
Why: Amboise was not terrible- but not thrilling either. The Da Vinci museum sounded cool but was a little underwhelming. The large garden is nice and shady with benches, so I would pack a picnic to have there. The town itself is pretty sleepy. The evening spectacle at the chateau should be avoided unless your French is very good. Arles is in a state of disrepair which could be considered romantic or tragic. I was surprised by the crumbling interior of the cathedral, considering it's a UNESCCO world heritage site. The romanesque portal is still stunning, though. Even though Van Gogh painted in Arles, I didn't feel any connection to him there- the town doesn't have a single one of his paintings! Save your Van Gogh pilgrimmage for Amsterdam (or New York for that matter). The town itself is nice for walking and is a good subject for photography.
Rebekah in Toronto, ON Canada 05/05/2009
Best: Metro pass
Why: We never once used the Metro but the pass was wonderful for touring all over Paris. We took your recommended bus routes and saw all the sights much cheaper than any tour would have been.
Worst: Regular restrooms at Arles Train Station locked
Why: Had to make an emergency visit to a "hole in the ground" restroom behind the station which was the only pit stop available. It was truly gross in every way.
Sue Cromwell in Chester Springs, PA USA 05/04/2009
Best: Restaurant in Rousillon
Why: This is the one to the right (as you face it) of the one you recommend. We arrived after lunch and the recommended one wasclosed. The one to the right(Brasserie Kronenbourg I believe) did serve us, explained all the dishes, talked with us, and then gave us all a sample shot of the local liquer. Tre bien!
Worst: Arles
Why: Dirty, overrun with young men out of work, not much to see
Meg in Chicago, IL USA 04/27/2009
Best: Detours in France
Why: Florent Leroux and his sister-in-law Sarah Bird are excellent ambasadors and guides to this area. We have traveled to Burgundy several times previously and this last trip hired Sarah for two private day tours. I am cheap and when it was over I still felt the ~400E each day was well worth it. I am a believer now.
Amy in Houston, TX USA 03/04/2009
Best: Loire Valley
Why: For the beauty and peace of this part of France.
Zoe Maurer in Southampton, NJ USA 01/01/2009