What is the difference between advise and recommend
To me (and I could be all on my own, here), advising someone is usually based on experience; recommendations, not necessarily.
For ex.: I have tasted sriracha, and advise that anyone who can't tolerate really hot sauce not try it. Or: I have not tried any of these hot sauces; I recommend that you try each for yourself. [shrug]
I would advise you to consult The Oracle (in your situation, you'd be a fool not to); I recommend that you read Moose in the Sunset, because I think you'll enjoy it (but it's up to you, and neither your life nor mine will suffer as a result either way.) Now that I re-read yours, Jackie, not so very different.
Peter