· There are usually no restrictions on the age you can fly alone, or stay in a hotel alone: problems will arise in booking hotels and flights. Someone over 18 will need to do this for you, especially as many hotels insist on credit card reservations.

Young people who are nervous about flying alone can usually take advantage of special guides at the airport - you simply need to request help when you book the tickets. You may have to turn up at the airport early. An added bonus to doing this is that you generally get to skip the queues at customs!
Jess McCabe

· Last summer, when I was 15, I tried to find a suitable hotel to take under 18s and I found only one willing to take us, for details visit www.faip.asso.fr (click on american flag for english site). The hotel had great security (Group 4 and Securicor!) and had 24hr reception help. The hotel was great for us as the internet room meant we could send some emails home, the rooms are cheap and clean with private bathrooms, and deals on catering are explained in the site. I must sound like I work there but it's just that it was the only hotel I could find and it is in Paris, really near EuroDisney and shops are also very near, as is transport. So anyone looking at going to France under 18, I suggest you check the website.

Peter W Allen