Paris Apartment Search?/

"Sorry to start yet another thread about this."

What am I missing here? When I click on your name I see this is the ONLY thread you've ever posted on Fodors.

I clicked on your name to see what other information you've given us -- particularly a price range and if you need AC.

I think he just meant another thread on the general topic of Paris apts. I guess. But that is going to be difficult given that June is a very popular tourist period in Paris and it's only a couple months away, and you want an apt. in one of the most popular tourist locations.

So, you do want a lot -- what is your budget? That is really important. I think a few people mentioned some US agencies where they could use credit cards, maybe they will advise. I've used two French firms, but I think one is out of business that accepted credit cards. The other takes CC for deposit and a cashier's check or bank wire (not required to be in euro) for the remainder. Do you consider that cash? I mailed it from home and just got a cashier's check in USD. They calculated it at an exchange rate virtually identical to the interbank rate, in fact I think they hadn't adjusted it for a recent change and I even came out a little ahead.

That place is www.locaflat.com and they do actually have an apt. that suits your criteria right now (21 rue Dauphine). It has twins and a sofabed and is free according to their calendar. They aren't open on Sundays, though, so your arrival/departure has to be a diff. day. This is a Paris agency, so they aren't going to do some of the handholding some people want for these situations. They were very nice and competent, but I speak French and went to their office to get the key myself and didn't need any advice on how to get around, etc.

You can also try www.barclayweb.com They do take CCs and have a US office, as well as British. I wanted one of their places once, and the rate was very reasonable in comparison to some other agencies that listed the same place, actually (which surprised me). They gave me good service, but it turned out the place was already booked. They list a lot of places listed elsewhere, so need to check with the owners if it's already rented.

I'm sure others can name some better ideas.

"I think he just meant another thread on the general topic of Paris apts. I guess."

OK. Duh. That DOES make sense.

so, where have you looked so far? what websites?

One of the American companies that takes credit cards is www.VacationInParis.com. They have a couple of apartments in the Sixth, including one very close to Odeon. Here is how it is described in the website:

"From this apartment you will be only a few minutes walk to so many attractions like the river Seine, Luxembourg Gardens, famous rue Buci market area, even Notre Dame! It is just off of St. Germain boulevard and transport is easy, with ODEON only a 3 minute walk or plenty of bus lines right outside also.

Enjoy the heart of Paris for this great price and enjoy the quiet courtyard apartment for your relaxing and sleeping.
Just $99 per night for up to 4 persons (6th Arr)"

They don't show availability on their website; you need to call them.

Thanks for all the suggestions!

Not being familiar with Paris, I have been having some trouble researching.

I've tried a number of the search sites suggested here and on other posts.

Perhaps hotels would be a better option for my group...

As a starting point...

www.venere.com
www.chezvous.com
www.lacigaleparis.com
www.vrbo.com
www.bienvenueaparis.com
www.parisattitude.com
wwwvacationinparis.com
www.paris-sleeps.com

Whoa. You say "for our group". How many of you are there?

I would still do a search on this forum. There are TONS of threads with suggestions, reviews,etc...

Simply email the various agencies (some listed in this thread, some in other threads) and outline your needs: time period, location, distribution of beds/number of people. Point out that you'd prefer to pay by credit card. They will all (in my experience) respond with their available properties, typically within 24-48 hours. Once you know what's really available it won't be too hard to decide, and in any case don't agonize over it too much: most of the rentals available are very nice and fairly priced, and you'll have a great time in Paris.

Don't worry about trying to do any of this French. You'll want to use "courtesy" French when you're there, but it will be useless in this setting.

We stayed in a great apartment in the 6th last month on Rue St. Andres des Arts, a couple of minutes from the Odeon station. We found it on www.perfectplaces.com. It's a one-bedroom with queen-size sleeper in the living room, so would accommodate 3 very easily. However, the owner lives there off and on, so it would have to work out with her schedule as well.
She does require the euros upon arrival, though. I highly recommend it.