Re: Need advice on driving outside Paris
1. Best rent small hatchbacks. They are cheap, and easy to drive when you enter towns with really narrow roads. Can get good rates from orbitz. I would stick with the international brands like Hertz, Avis, etc since if you breakdown you can get a replacement vehicle from the nearest town. Also easiest to collect and return the car to airport.
2. Peage means toll road, but they are much faster if you are rushing for time. Non-toll roads go through villages with their never ending "toutes directions" - all directions roundabouts. They essentially bring you into the village/town centres then you figure your way out.
3. Don't need to drive fast -- french countrysides are lovely. You likely spend more time stopping and taking photos
4. GPS a must -- don't rent though. Just buy a Garmin in English and you can use it back home.
5. French countryside has some of the most convenient and best budget hotels. They are everywhere, so you don't have to book in advance and can stop anytime you want. Most have automated ATM style check in machines. Accor has the best range and network from Ibis (mid-lower range) to ATAP (lower range) -- can be as cheap as EU50 a night, parking included. They always sleep 3 btw.
