Shengen Visa

I am a currently on a tier 2 visa like to visit one of the european countries for a short break on my next leave about 2 weeks from now. H ave called the french embassy was told I could post my application based on my region however have read I have to buy a ticket and all pay fully for accomodation not book.
What if am unable to go the period i booked or payed for as am told for my nationality the visa takes 6 weeks what o i do then.
Also which is easier to get french or spanish visa.
Thanks