One of the best ways to gleen information prior to travelling abroad is, of course, to do your homework thoroughly before you leave.

Take France  instance. There is a whole different culture to the country other than just good food, wine, world famous cheese and wonderful cities and quaint villages. You would find that Paris is really very cosmopolitan and yet is still Paris in every way. There are zillions of hotels in the City of Lights but if you are after a particular one, say, the most romantic hotel Paris has to offer then you would need to do your pricing very carefully as the tariffs vary considerably.

Taking a look at a travelogue is a very good way of seeing more of what France has to offer. Pay attention especially to transport, especially in isolated spots and more particularly if you are landing on a public holiday (France has lot’s of them ! ) with the 14th July being the biggest. Don’t forget the 15th August is the most difficult day of the year to get accommodation unless you have booked well ahead…