First Time in Paris
 

We are planning an 8 day trip to Paris in June. It's our first time in Paris and actually our first time abroad. We are looking suggestions and ideas on where to stay, where to eat, and what to do while we're there. Budget is not an issue. We plan to stay in only 5-star hotels and we're flying 1st class on the Concorde. Any feedback on areas to avoid, etc. We do not speak French and wondered how much of an "issue" that will be. We decided not to do a tour, since they are so hectic and structured. We've heard so much about the beauty of Paris, and just simply want to explore what one of Europe's best cities has to offer. Thank you very much.

You might want to type Paris into the little search box first and see what you can get from previous posts on this subject,then you can come back with specific questions..this has been covered extensively so you may have all your questions answered there.

Since you're working the high end, I would recommend that you consider a private guide. For $150/$175 day plus some expenses, you could get a first class look at the city from somebody who really knows it and the whole experience can be tailored to your interests and tastes.

You must have some experience with traveling,no? Have you looked through any guide books yet? Do you know where you are staying yet and what neighborhood you will be in? Have you any interests or ideas of what you would like to see while visiting Paris? You might want to answer those questions first-not neccesarily on this board-but once you know a few things about what you want out of your trip-you will be better able to plan it.There are so many good places to eat, museums,places to shop-the best way to begin is sit down with your family and read about Paris, then talk it over.Budget has never been an issue with our travels either, but it doesn't really depend on budget, it is what you want out of the trip.We had definite ideas about what we wanted to see and do and we made lists and planned.You should try that first,then check back here with more specific qqestions.

TROLL ALERT - flying on the Concorde, five star's only? Anyone who has never been abroad and sounds this naive is not a Concorde passenger or a Crillion / George V / Ritz guest.

I think Jim is on the right track. Moreover, I think you should hire someone in your own area of the country (U.S., I assume) - - maybe best a young married couple who can help you plan it and play tour guide with you/for you - - flying a day ahead of you (coach, of course), staying in a nearby (but much cheaper) hotel, being your chauffeur for the 2-4 days that I'd recommend you get out of the city.<BR><BR>I am really serious. I'd say contact the biggest university near you, and ask about a fresh upcoming French major graduating, or your local high school(s) - - maybe they know about a newly starting out teacher, or try the nearest chapter of Alliance Francaise.<BR><BR>God, if I was 22 again, and especially if I knew about traveling what I know now at 48, I would beg you to let me do this for you!<BR><BR>I really think this can be a great way to have yourselves a &lt;&lt;voyage magnifique&gt;&gt;!<BR><BR>Best wishes,<BR><BR>Rex Bickers<BR>Westerville, Ohio<BR>

Kay,<BR>I'm so jealous! I am assuming you are staying at a top hotel. Simply contact the hotel's concierge staff before you arrive(or even after). Tell them what your needs are - English Speaking chauffer/guide. They will take care of it and you will be pleased. Four of us did this last May and were provided with Herve(I forget his last name and lost his card) did an extraiordinary job for us, both in Paris and in trips to Giverney and Versailles. Was it expensive? Yes. but not terribly so. Excellent value for the price. Would we do it again? Yes.<BR>Murray Brown.

oh, come on, if someone is that filthy rich, why wouldn't they just consult a travel agent??? or read a book???<BR><BR>you people are GULLIBLE!