where should I go on holiday this summer?

[larabell]

In the past, I've enjoyed the American Southwest (Grand Canyon, etc), the Ile de Re in France, Martha's Vineyard, etc. I want to go around September, want warm weather, but not too hot, lazy days with a bit of something to see or flat terrain for easy cycling and a good choice of nice restaurants for dinner. a bit of luxury, but not over the top I do not like chicken and chips package hols to huge resorts in Spain, etc, no offense, just not my style, nor do I want to spend too much time in big cities, or be too isolated in a villa in hte middle of nowhere... I'd prefer to stay in Europe or the US - any suggestions???

[apricot]

How about Kracow in Poland. Plenty to see and flat enough for a bike. Best food I've eaten in ages and a shortish bus ride to the mountains where the scenery is spectacular. See Lonely Planet Poland for all the lowdown. The Hotel Amadeus I would strongly recommend. A bit off the wall?

[rock1873]

Come to Scotland ,the weather may not be good(at the best of times !!!) but you will be in Braveheart Country !!!

[Janetex]

Australia, New Orleans, Arizona. Lucky you.

[quattro]

Try Italy theres lots to see and do the public transport in the main areas is good the food is great and the people are nicwe and friendly. Ive been to a few places but the views of the Amalfi coastline are the most stunning I've ever seen .Just leave your bike at home though !!

[larabell]

Thanks everyone! quattro, I had a very nice stay in Ravello on the Amalfi Coast and agree it's gorgeous (if scary driving on that cliffside road where Italians think the dangerous curves ahead sign means 'overtake now') I've been considering the Dalmatian coast - anyone been there?

[Dave Potts]

Considered Switzerland? Lugano, in the south (bordering Italy) is *stunning* pretty much all year round. Temperatures are warm in September and the town boasts superb restaurants, excellent shopping and a wide selection of well-appointed hotels. Lakes, mountains, fresh air, friendly people and plenty to see and do - well worth a look as I think it fulfils all your criteria!

[Caladon]

Anyone who ever asks this questions I feel obliged to shout straight away NEW ZEALAND! Thats right boys and girls, kiwiland! Has every weather condition possible, from tropics to the Alps, black/white sand beaches, flat farm lands or the mountains of the South Island, NEW ZEALAND is the place to go!!! WOOOOHOOO! and back to normality, its just a great place, friendly people, nice and cheap thanks to our strong pound and their not as strong dollar. Not as slack jawed as australians, more refined...almost give us a bad name, but beware of their good bloke Helen (Clarke, PM), has teeth that would scare a Great White! And if you don't fancy NZ then 1) you are nuts but 2) try Italy

[SallyW]

Why don't you visit a good independant travel agent, they are trained to advise you.