For what it's worth . . . I just got back from a week in Paris, and, after several visits over the years, still have yet to encounter a "rude Parisian". Not a single one. On the other hand, I've encountered many rude/thoughtless tourists, and have probably been classified as such at one time or another. YMMV of course.

I think a key to your comfort on the holidays is making sure that you can do what's important/meaningful to you. If a big family meal is key, ensure you can either prepare one or find a restaurant that will be open and accommodate this. If seeing a huge Christmas tree is important, since 1947, the people of Norway send a huge Norway Spruce every year to the people of England. The tree will be lit on December 6 and there are almost daily events associated with it. More details at this link:

http://www.london.gov.uk/trafalgarsq...vents/xmas.jsp

I suspect your family's Christmas "on the road" will start new traditions for you and will likely be among your most memorable--even if things don't go as planned. What's better than being with loved ones during the holidays?

I'll be spending the Christmas holidays in the UK and might pop over to Paris for New Year. Christmas in Spain sounds like a lot of fun.