France (Paris) on a budget?

Please excuse my ignorance but I think I can get the best advice here. It has been years since I traveled abroad (Russia, The Netherlands, Belgium) but I have always had a secret love affair with France. A few of my friends who toured the region said France was the most enjoyable. I love food so I was debating between France and Spain (might do both) so I am hoping I can get some advice regarding boarding. I think I might enjoy a B&B room more than the generic hotel stay as I like to make new friends and the hospitality.

I would like to do this for my 53rd birthday so I still have a little more than 1.5yrs to plan this trip so time is not a huge issue. If anyone would or could help me and guide me I will buy you dinner.

Merci et votre aide sera très appréciée,
Gregg

 

Get out of my head because I just remembered Air BNB LOL! I would like to spend my birthday, July 4th, there but not until 2017 (if I live that long). New Years would be awesome but I am dealing with aging parents health issues so I am not in the position any time soon. I would love to meet up with someone I could enjoy the adventure with though when the time is right.

I never felt more alive than when I was far, far away and experiencing life through other people eye's. I performed some family history a few years back and found that my last name originated in France in 1066. From France to Texas...who would have thought?

 

I did not even do the tourist trail when I was in Amsterdam in '98 (I might have done the Red Light District though). I do believe that there are a few places that are key though but those would barely equal 10% of the stay. I am more into food culture and socializing and making new friends.

It would be great to experience France with someone so if you would like to kick the idea around, PM me. I am sure we will get some good advice from others on places to see and eat. My passport expired years ago so that will be a priority as well as find a B&B outside of Paris in the French countryside and hopefully a Ferrari friend and or event to attend.

 

Thank you Tom. Life has been a bit crazy and I could use a vacation (time to my self).
I might even stay a night or two in Amsterdam trying to connect with old friends if possible. I love it when anything is in the realm of possibility.

 

Thank you for all your help nerofer as your advice is a valuable asset. I dig the train aspect as I took one from Brussels into Amsterdam and it was fantastic. I will never forget the beautiful young Parisian lady who shared her chips with me.

As mentioned the 4th is my b-day and since I am a Texan I deal with the heat 90% of the year but Paris in the winter is definitely a viable option. I am open to any and all suggestions and I am still in the beginning stages. I believe one of the best parts of the trip would be meeting and enjoying the company of fellow F-Chatters.

With your permission I would like to stay in touch and get your opinions & input?

Thank you,
Gregg

 

I am just getting started and honestly kind of lost but I am researching and have over a year to plan and arrange things. My first priority is to renew my passport and then decide on accommodation's and if I want to include a few days in Amsterdam.

 

Good talking to you last night Jonny (Sniper rifle) lol.

So as it stands the list goes....
1) Get new passport ( I looked into it last night and mine has been expired too long to renew but that is a non-issue).
2) Choose dates (season).
3) Book accommodations.
4) Book flight.
5) Enjoy.

 

Oh man I bet that gathering will be very nice and picturesque.

 

LOL that's great! You rock brother.