When in France

The French travel story was a nostalgic reminder of our rented car trip to Nice in 1976. We, however, had no schedule and were not tied to reservations at one- and three-star restaurants or fancy hotels.

It was surprising that Baird and Luther did not obtain Michelin French regional maps and Michelin Green Guides (some of which are in French only) before leaving the United States. They are a must for independent travel. Your readers should be aware that it is simple to travel in most parts of Europe without reservations, and that way you can spend as much time as wanted at scenic areas.

Some of the highlights they missed were the Pont du Gard close to Avignon, the Palais des Papes in Avignon and the waterfront in Nice. The three-star restaurant they cited in Les Baux is not on the hill containing the ruins, but in the valley below.

Thanks for a fascinating story.

WARREN and DOROTHY HEMPHILL

Blythe