I know someone who boasts that he made a lifelong friend of the French driver with whom he collided, when driving on the wrong side of the road, many years ago. Unfortunately it is easier than you think to end up driving on the left, especially when pulling away from petrol stations or restaurants on the left-hand side of the road when instinct tends to take over. Without wishing to sound off-putting, it can be stressful driving in France but there are many compensations and with a little planning it should not be a problem. The best advice is to find out as much as possible about their rules of the road, drive defensively, don't rush and take frequent rests.

It is all too easy when you have young children to be fazed by the prospect of taking them on holiday abroad but with a little planning there is no reason why a holiday in France should not be as successful as one in this country.

Why France and why self-catering?

With most families opting to take their own car to France, it has to be the ideal destination when travelling with all the paraphernalia required for young children. Push-chairs, travel-cots, little bikes and suitcases full of clothes and packs of nappies can all be accommodated (provided your car is big enough!) and if these are the things that will make life easy on holiday, why leave them at home? There is something for everyone in France: lakes, mountains, tranquil beaches, chic seaside resorts and interesting cities (although they have limited appeal for most families with young children) and best of all the French love children. Renting a holiday home will give you far more freedom than a hotel and of course is also better value.