The most romantic get-away I have experienced was in Paris on the River Seine. Yes, I said ON the river. The Bateau Simpatico a superb luxury accommodation is tied to a quai, moored in Port de Suffren, which is under the Eiffel. Well, it nearly is under the Eiffel, truly - less than a five-minute walk across the street and down the steps from the tower. In fact, you can see the Eiffel through its portholes. Another landmark close by is Le Bateaux Maxim's, the fabulous dinner-cruise boat.

And it's true when they say "the Seine is the only street in Paris where everyone knows each other."

My first stay on the Simpatico was a delightful surprise (oh yes, I've been back since). I had booked it on the Internet, not knowing what to expect. Photos and descriptions are not always as accurate as one would hope. But this time, I must say, I couldn't have wished for a more lovely setting. The environment and the boat were romantic in every sense.

It's Japanese sliding screens that separate the kingsize bedroom from the great room add to the charm of this floating paradise, as do the objets d'art placed throughout. Leather sofas, tables & chairs, have all been specially selected by the owner to blend with the comfy decor. It's sparkling interiors are immaculate with all the modern conveniences, even an Internet connection which is a must-have for me whereever I go.

I loved that first experience on the remodeled Dutch peniche so much, I made it a focal point and the residence of one of my main characters in my latest novel "Midnight at the Eiffel." In fact the proprietor of the Simpatico snapped the fabulous cover photographs. I'll be there in March 2008, from the USA, to give him a signed copy for the Simpatico's library and hope to pop the cork on a bottle of champagne in celebration of it's release.

At night as you sit on the deck of the Simpatico or you're gazing from the portholes inside, the lights of the passing boats and those that are twinkling in the historic and beautiful townhouses and buildings on either shoreline make you feel as if you're in a fantasyland. It is incredible. Paris definitely lives up to it's moniker - "The City of Lights."

When morning comes and the river noises roust you from sleep, it's a short walk up the cobbled lane to sidewalk cafes for croissants, omelets and coffee, then it's off to a day of sight-seeing or shopping.

For me, the Bateau Simpatico is my preferred place to stay when I'm in Paris. It's proximity to everything is perfect. The RER and METRO stations are nearby, so I don't need a car when I'm doing research for my books.

But most of all, the Simpatico is a peaceful place to relax and sip champagne with romantic thoughts for romantic novels and short stories ... and if one is so inclined, it is the perfect place for a spectacular romantic interlude.

http://www.quai48parisvacation.com/

Has anyone else stayed on a houseboat? What was your experience?

I haven't come across many (or any!) houseboat advertisements when Googling for Paris accomodations.. certainly not like you do for Amsterdam, much more common there..

Maybe there aren't very many available as a substitute for a hotel stay? I recall a boat called "la Vie en Rose" or something? that was rather expensive.

I agree with you - it certainly is a very romantic venue Rebecca.
Being luxury accommodation it would probably be far too expensive for the likes of us budgeteers!!
Oh well, we can walk past it and dream I guess. Thanks for telling us about it - and the book. I read anything true or fictional about Paris.

Travelnut - You're not thinking of the barge " ROSA"?? The one Rick Steing did that cooking programme on?

Sorry - make that Rick Stein ( or Sting or Steng even Steen!)

This is the closest description I can easily find - change in ownership, so the houseboat website doesn't work anymore...

http://www.virtualtourist.com/hotels...Rose-BR-1.html

That does look gorgeous. About how much does it cost (no rates on the website)?

Didn't anyone else think this was a complete advertising troll? Don't mean to be jaded, but poster is new & write up is, umm, well, I think most of you will get what I mean...

rebecca - honey, You might want to READ the rules they gave you when you registered this morning!

Advertising is very much against the rules. And pretending to be a "satisfied customer" is even sleazier . . . . .

Isn't it The City Of Light...and in Enlightenment?

Sorry, "AS" in Enlightenment

travelphile and janisj--My thoughts exactly.

Do a quick Google on the name; self promotion is the game.

She's a novelist... she has posted a few times on other threads on topics other than the houseboat. On her blog, she doesn't make any claims to 'own' the houseboat.

I agree if writing about Paris, IT IS THE CITY OF LIGHT!
P.S. I finished Cara Black's new book, MURDER IN THE RUE de PARADIS.
Wonderful!