I agree Shootingstar, in that we try to minimize some things and maximize others. Unlike you, though, I do better when I know what is coming. I did not like it on our first cycling tour in Europe, (with Trek Travel) there some difficult climbs duly noted on the cue sheets, but they often didn't tell you about the other difficult climbs that day. For example, one day started with a 7 mile climb. DH decided to do it, and I was one of the few who decided to go in the van. When the van passed DH, he was already on the down hill part, so they dropped me off and on we went. After lunch there were 2-3 more 15% climbs that we had no idea about. DH was really tired from the first one, causing the leaders to have a look of shock when I reached the top of the hill before he did. In this case, he might have made a different decision about the morning. I just know I do better "knowing," and having a very clear idea of where I am headed.
So, our friends just left our house and we have decided on France. The weather looks like it is perfect at that time of year. We still need to get some more information about the Ciclismo trip to France, but although it's a ride across the country, the daily mileage doesn't seem onerous. We will make our decision by November, to get the early bird discount on either of the trips.