5th arr. in Paris
 

Thank you all for your input on Paris accommodations - I have booked a room at St. Jacques (5th) for Nov. My only question is about this area in the Latin Quarter - does it cater mainly to the college crowd and would two middle age ladies feel out of place?

It depends on what you want, but my 80-year-old mother and I didn't feel out of place there last Sept. It's a very bustling area, especially around Place St. Michel.

You will not feel out of place. It's a very eclectic area.

cindylo: I am a middle aged lady and I stayed at Hotel St. Jacques last fall and loved it. Great area and it's not just students. Have a great time.

Another middle aged lady here who stayed at the St Jacque and loved it. Plus, I assume you won't be spending all your time right around the hotel anyway. There are people of all ages all over Paris. But that particular area is not at all "studenty" (I know that's not a word).

There <i>are</i> many people in their 20s around there, but also lots of older people. You'll be fine!

I've only been to Paris once and stayed in the Latin Quarter. There were ALL kinds of people there. Locals young and old, tourists from all over, of all ages. It is a very lively and busy part of the city.

One small tip I found it a little confusing when out on foot, even with a map I got turned around a couple times (streets all twist and turn, are not on a square grid). Soooo carry the business card from your hotel and you can always ask for directions back or in a pinch hop in a taxi and show the driver the card!!

I stayed in the 5th with my college student daughter and we both loved the atmosphere. Something for everyone. Thinking of staying there with my husband in February.