Thanks for the report Jeff.

A post of the most useful kind: real information, quickly provided!

Very nice report.
For the best restaurant in Bayeux try Le Petite Bistro--right on the square with the cathedral. And Jeff's resto was good too, but the at the bistro, we had the best meal of our 2 week trip to France that year. A "mom and pop" operation, small, all French folk there. Make a reservation.

BLH

We requested the GPS when we reserved the car, but you can ask for them at the rental desk as it’s a portable device that you can attach most anywhere on the car. The cost with Hertz was 11 euros/day. It was especially helpful in Rouen and getting us to Mont St. Michel. When we programmed in Monet’s house in Giverny, it took us to the small parking lot directly across from the entrance rather than the larger ones futher down the road.


Timetravler1028

I’m really lost as to the best time now for the Eiffel. In the past you could usually get there before opening or arrive late in the evening to avoid the lines. One word of caution if you decide to go up late in the evening. They stopped selling tickets to the 3rd level around 10:00pm when we were there and only allow you to go up as far as the 2nd level. Not a problem for me as I can’t tell that much difference between the 2nd and 3rd levels. As far as when to get the best view, go on a clear day. I’ve been up during the day and at night and there are advantages to both times. Personally, I would go up during the day and then go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe at night so you can enjoy the twinkle show.

Jeff. Thank you for that wonderful Paris report. We are going in May and I am so excited. We will definately check out both the choclates and the loo!

Thanks for the GPS information, Jeff.

I have put Le Petit Bistro on my list of restaurants - thanks, Gretchen!

As another Fodorite who will be there mid to end of May (GTG anyone?), I appreciate all that info! This also made me decide to definitely get a museum pass ahead of time.

Belledame,

Great idea about meeting for dinner. Looks like half the Fodorites on this board will be in the City of Light for May!
Will let you know the state of reservations once I have them. (Waiting on Paris-based friends to confirm availability)

Jeff, good to hear about the missing dog poo ... how about smoking? Are the laws against smoking in the cafes and restaurants taking hold yet?

A reminder about May.
On the 19th, most museums throughout France will be free and stay open later.
check here for an update soon.
http://www.nuitdesmusees.culture.fr/

bookmarking. Thanks, Jeff. :)

No smoking in restaurants, cafés or any other public place as of 1 January 2009.

However, I have noticed a few places that have already decided to apply the upcoming laws -- totally non smoking restaurants and hotels.

I'm going to be there 5/2 - 5/8, visiting my niece who's studying at the Sorbonne for the semester. This will be my first time renting an apartment so I'm looking forward to that experience, along with many others.....

We will be going to Paris on 5/2 and I'm starting to get anxious! I tend to freak a bit when things go wrong so I'm going to try to relax and enjoy the experience regardless of any small problems. I've been wanting to go to Paris for 30 years now and Finally will be going! Excited, anxious, nervous all in one!

Fun report and great tips, jeff. Thanks!