central Europe in the winter anyone?

We want to travel through Enlgand, Paris, Switzerland, Budapest, Prague, Vienna during Winter (jan). We anticipate that it will be cold but we hope that we can rung up enough to still enjoy the sites of these places in less then desirable weather. First Stop England and we want to drive fro London to Kent, then Cotswalds and Oxofrd etc. Is driving this time of year a problem? We waant to spend New years in Paris. Anyone done this before? Comments...recommendations.... Then we are off the Switzerland, a little amateuar skiing and what little site seeing we can do in this weather but surely the places along the way to jungfrau are just gorgeous in the snow? And surely we can enjoy some warm meals by open fires? Any suggestions... recommendations.. Also we want to go Vienna, Prague and Budapest. Tips for keeping warm and being prepared appreciated. I hear the Turkish baths in Budapest are a good way to warm up. Are they men and women and are they clean and not sleezy?

We travel the budget end of Mid-range and like to have private room for two where possible. Any recomendations for accomodation appreciated.

We want to go to the top of Junfrau. Will this be possible this time of year?

Thanks for any adivce out there. Travelling from Australia.
pummy369 Reply to this

I lived in Kent for some time, I have to say that winter is not that cold over there, though if it gets a little snow (doesnt happen too often and stays for like 1-2days) the area paralyzes for some time. But it should not be a problem, it is just funny to see with my Hungarian eyes... Winter can be quite cold here, but you never know with global warming nowadays. This winter was pretty warm, almost no snow, so hopefully 2007 will be similar. Budapest is a good place for nights out, and as far as I experienced and know, the turkish baths are clean. There are some where men and women are separated, but even in those there are kind of mixed days. Although I would recommend the Széchenyi and the Gellért bath and not far from Budapest you can find a cave bath too in Miskolctapolca which is worth to see. You can find more info on baths here: www.spasbudapest.com
and on Hungary (things to see, food and drinks to try, accommodation): www.hungary.com
Prague and Vienna are the same considering their weather, Vienna is good if you like fine arts, Prague is beautiful, more romantic, though it has a less attractions to see than Budapest. Reply to this

Hiya, your plans sound great. I live in London at the mo although my parents live in Kent and my brother lives in Oxford. Although it will be cold at that time of year if you bring gloves, scarves, a hat, thick socks, waterproof boots and a warm coat you'll be fine! Driving from London to Kent is pretty easy on the M25 and M20 motorways, just watch out for foreign lorry drivers and bad weather - the only real travel hazards excpet roadworks!

In Kent, I'd suggest visiting Canterbury. The Cathedral and City Centre there are pretty cool, also the Canterbury Tales is a popular attraction. For something a bit different, try visiting a Kent vineyard, they produce some excellent wines. Try visiting http://www.biddendenvineyards.com/ and get more info on Kent wines at http://www.heartofkent.org.uk/site/things-to-see-and-do/vineyards-in-kent

Also, in Kent, try visiting Dover Castle. Dover is very close to Canterbury and is full of some incredible history. The history of the castle goes from medieval times through to world war 2 when a secret war hospital and command base were run from tunnels dug in to the white cliffs of Dover. Also, in Dover, there is a Roman Painted House, The White Cliffs Experience and an archeological dig of a very old roman boat. Although Dover itelf is not one of Kent's prettiest towns, it is so rich in history that it is well worth a visit while you're in the area. Try staying in a country pub near to canterbury for a good value and truly English hospitality. For some good deals on Canterbury hotels, try http://www.cheaperthanhotels.co.uk/United-Kingdom/Canterbury--UK-/

In London, I would definitely recommend a trip to the theatre. These are particularly popular in the winter so I'd recommend booking a couple of moths in advance to get tickets for the show you want. The company I work for have some really good deals on London theatre tickets with either a meal or a hotel stay for 1-3 nights. Prices for top theatre tickets including a 2 course meal start from just £34.40 per person. For more details, check out www.show-and-stay.co.uk/meal-and-show.html Also, check out our company blog for ideas of days out in London and details of London shows, cheap travel etc. - http://blog.show-and-stay.co.uk/ I really wouldn't recommend having a car in London but would definitely recommend it for Kent and the rest of the country. Maybe look at picking up the car from a rental depot in Kent and getting the train from London to the depot?

Try to take advantage of the free access to many London musuems and galleries, eg. National Gallery, Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum and The Science Museum.

In Paris, I recommend to anyone and everyone to take a day trip to Versialles. The chateau there is incredible and Marie Antoinette's estate is also amazing. (Try watching the Kirsten Dunst DVD of Marie Antoinette before you visit the castle, it will make your visit much more interesting. Try to walk up the eiffel tower if you can manage it, you don't get the same experience if you take the lift!

Have fun and contact me with any Q's. 😊
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