Need to Know - Discover France: Experience the Best of France - page 95

• » Late-December to March high season in French Alps ski resorts
Shoulder (Apr-June & Sep)
• » Accommodation rates drop in southern France and other traveller hot spots
• » Spring is best, with its warm temperatures, flowers and abundance of local pro-
duce
• » Watching the vendange (grape harvest) is reason to visit in Autumn
Low Season (Oct-Mar)
• » Lowest prices - up to 50% less than high season
• » Sights, attractions and restaurants open fewer days and shorter hours
Advance Planning
• » Three months before Book flights and accommodation; book tickets for popu-
lar festivals and sporting events such as the Festival d'Avignon and Nice Jazz
Festival.
• » One month before Book train tickets via the SNCF website ( www.voyages-
sncf.com ) to get the cheapest fares. Arrange car hire: French firms such as ADA
( www.ada.fr ) or discount brokers such as Auto Europe ( www.autoeurope.com ) often
have good deals.
• » Two weeks before Choose which guided walks and tours you want to do, and
book if necessary. Order euros, or charge up your pre-paid card.
Your Daily Budget
Budget up to €100
• » Dorm beds €15-40
• » Double room in budget hotel €50-70
• » Free admission to many museums and monuments first Sunday of month
• » Set lunches €10-15