Visiting TDF 2013

[meridaman]

Hi,
Not too sure where to put this, as much as I'd love to ride some of the stages I'm planning to take the wife and toddler (2 yo daughter) next year to the TDF.
Most organised tour operators won't take you with a toddler, any hints or tips where I can find info for self drive? We're planning to do about 2 weeks, follow a few stages, then Champs Elysees and few days in Paris before heading home. Do you literally just find out where it will be and plonk yourself on the side of the road ? What about when they come down the Champs Elysees? After as much info as possible, also any hints or tips or booking airfares greatly appreciated! Thanks guys.

[TimW]

I just found a heap of information Here when i keyed in the words tour de france, .Plenty of information on hotels etc some may be of assistance.Tim
http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/

[Meditator]

There's a branch called International tours and events, just two lines up from touring overseas. Try there.

also try some forums that are europe based or try thorntree.lonelyplanet.com

[toolonglegs]

Self drive is easy... Routes and timetables are published well in advance. I took my twins to see a few stages when they were 2... They got all the caravan vehicles stopping for them .
The mountains can be a little tricky as there are fewer routes and roads are closed earlier.
Paris with a toddler will be hard... Big crowds and all. If you can stretch the dollars contact an official seller ( bikestyle tours in oz ) and get grandstand tickets which are the best way to watch the final day.
It really isn't very complicated ... I will only miss 2 stages this year .

[meridaman]

Guys thanks so much for the tips will look into it all, toolong are you taking your kids this year too?

[toolonglegs]

Guys thanks so much for the tips will look into it all, toolong are you taking your kids this year too?

I live in France now and work as a guide during the TDF these days, so kids don't get to come... I will be home for 3 days mid tour which is perfect as the Tour passes through our little village on the way to the Alpes on one of those days so the kids can get their Aussie flags out .