I found a pretty inexpensive rate at the Le Dauphin which is in the La Defense area. It even comes with complimentary breakfast. We are looking for a hotel for our first 2 nights in Paris. After that, we have a room booked at the Marriott in Montparnasse.

Has anyone stayed there before? I understand we'll need to take the metro into central Paris but is this a safe area with shops, family friendly? Is it too far and/or inconvenient for our arrival by metro from airport? Any opinions are welcomed!

Thanks!

La Defense is more of a business environment and doesn't have a lot of people around in the evenings and on weekends when workers are not present. Lots of shops and restaurants are shut down.

This is not an area I would choose as it's not all that convenient to the sights. You want something much more central such as in the 4, 5, 6, 7 arrondissement.

I have stayed in La Defense and whilst it isn't convenient the metro area is very convenient and in about 10 minutes you are right in the centre of Paris. It's kind of like canary wharf in London ie the business district. If the rate is REALLY good and you do have 2 other nights in Montparnasse go for it.

I should add that IF you can find a rate as good in town rather than La Defense then that would be a better option but if it helps your budget to stay in LD then I would do so.

The RER will save you time, depending where you are escaping to in central Paris; hope you got a really cheap rate.

La Defense is an office park, but connections by Metro to any place on line 1 (Arc, Louvre, Hotel de Ville, Bastille) are excellent.

Kerouac, the most perceptive eyes on this forum, posted an illuminating visual tour of La Defence a year ago. His photos are at http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...-la-dfense.cfm

Don't stay in the La Defence area unless you enjoy concrete, glass high-rises and no charm or character.

I suggest you do a search here (use the Search the Forums tool) for Paris hotels or start another post with your budget and needs stated. I am sure you will be able to find a hotel in central Paris within your budget and needs.