I posted earlier in the year for info for my niece, who was going to the Sorbonne for the spring semester. Now, I'm going to visit her during the first week of May and would appreciate input on 3 apartment options. She's suggested arr 1-4 and the ones I've narrowed it down to are:
http://www.vrbo.com/31360
http://www.vrbo.com/4036
http://www.vrbo.com/5595
I was looking to spend about 100 euros/night at most and would appreciate ANY and ALL comments concerning the areas, apartments, etc., or any other suggestions about housing!
Many thanks...and I promise to post a report when I'm back.

I too am visiting a student who is spending a semester in Paris, and will be renting an apartment. I've never done it before, but I like the idea that you can get in touch with other people who have rented it before (I haven't been able to do this for the less expensive place I have chosen, so I have my fingers crossed!). I would do so if I were you. I made a decision influenced by how much light the apartment seemed to have, as well as the fact that there was an oven in addition to a cooktop and microwave. Some people care how many flight they will have to climb. I hope someone else can give recommendations about location, etc. Bonne chance!

Hi MPO, All 3 look lovely, but if I had to choose, I'd probably go with the first one on Rue St-Honore. Couple reasons why: It's a little closer to the center of Paris (Ile-de-la-Cite, Notre Dame, the Sorbonne); in general, that is one of the more prestigious streets in Paris (can't speak for the exact location, but as I said, that is generally a "high class area" and, this is just a personal preference, it has an Internet connection, which I like to have on my travels. (Let's me blog to the family back home.) The Marais district (where the other two are located) is a nice area, too, particularly if you're a museum fan. Small museums, mainly, but that's where you'll find the Picasso, the Rodin, the Musee Carnavalet (on the history of Paris) and several others. It's a nice area, though not my preference in terms of accommodations. I definitely go for location in Paris!!

By the way, I was a student at the Sorbonne 20 years ago this year!!!! Loved every minute of it. I'm so glad you're visiting your niece. When I was there I BEGGED people to visit. My sister and her family did for a long weekend (they flew free b/c she worked for the airlines) and my two best friends came over during Christmas break and we backpacked around Europe. Couldn't convince anyone else to cross the pond. Do you believe it??? So have a great time. If you want to email me with questions, feel free. It's [email protected].

Here's another place for your consideration:

http://www.slowtrav.com/cl/detail.asp?l=2636

We stayed in this elegant apartment a few months ago, and you can read my review on the Slow Travel site. In a plus, it's very reasonably priced. (And you would get points from your daughter for "cool" if you opted for the neighborhood.)

We have had nothing but great luck when using VRBO. Haven't used them in Paris yet but would love your feedback once you return.

Great Travels