Why not go to Italy first and then head on over to France. I love to pursue the spaces on airnb and other sights where people rent out their own private spaces. I think renting a quaint, unique space sounds rather appealing right now. Besides the bright pink velvet sofa below, don't you love how just a bunch of stuff is just thrown together but looks so effortlessly chic...I guess that is the French way.
The above space is in Puglia, Italy and the below space is in Paris, France. I think the space in Paris is even American friendly, hence flag blanket on the couch:-)
{{images via airnb}