I found an apartment with rentparis.com on 29 rue Rambuteau, which is in the Marais district. I have never stayed in the Marais area before, and while doing research on the board, some posters said this street/area was dangerous at night? Is this true?

I've been debating between the Marais area and St. Germain for a while, but this apartment looked really nice... any pro's/con's for the Marais area?

Topping for help!

I have rented from rentparis and have stayed right off of Rambuteau and love the area. Rambuteau is a working street with food stores, wine stores, restaurants, hair shops, clothing, grocery, etc. I have always felt safe there and everywhere in the Marais. It is the area I always choose to stay in while in Paris. Rambuteau turns into Rue Franc bourgois (sp) which leads to Place des Vosges. On the other end it runs into the Pompidou. There is a metro stop. It is not far from BHV and the river. I highly recommend the area.

It's a great area, near the Centre Pompidou. Just be aware that the area around Les Halles, which isn't too far away, is considered slightly dangerous after dark (emphasis on "slightly&quot.
Not To Worry!

StCirq...

That's what I've heard regarding the Les Halles area and the Chaletet metro stop. Even though is is only "slightly" dangerous after dark, that still concerns me.

Is it safer if you just avoid the Chaletet metro area?

Also, I've never been to the Marais or St. Germain area. While I hear that the St. Germain area has an "artsy" feel to it, I feel like I'm lacking info on what the Marais area is like...any help with that?

The Marais seems almost like a small city within Paris. It is one of the oldest areas of the city with many boutiques and historic buildings. It has Place des Vosges, Picasso Museum, Victor Hugo home, etc. Many restaurants and food shops. It is has a fairly large gay population in areas centered around rue de la bretonnerie, vielle du temple. It is stylish yet old and doesn't feel as touristy as areas I've been to in St. Germain. It is very safe and I would recommend it to everyone.

I reckon anywhere is central Paris is safe. Walking past the entrances to the Les Halles shopping centre at might can feel a bit intimidating due to the large groups of youths who sometimes hang about there but they won't bother you if you don't bother them. Enjoy this lovely city!

Has anyone any ideas on what the Latin Quarter is like to stay in? Was thinking of the Hotel Du Lys which has been recommended on Fodor's.