"adrienne on Apr 2, 13 at 12:51pm
Susan - you're way over thinking the hotel choice."

I agree. But, for some it can be part of the excitement of planning. Smiles.

Happy Travels!

Overthinking? Perhaps. I want the best experience possible, within reason, as I may not be back.

I've been on solo trips through Germany, Switzerland and Austria and Alsace region. Most of the hotels I picked were charming or just fine -- and in most cases I didn't spend this much time debating. I had a real downer hotel in one Bavarian town that's made me more cautious in my choice. A hotel, for me, does color the experience. In this case, French charm and location are important.

Yes, I agree that a hotel can color an experience, especially if the hotel or management is not up to pare. But, one never knows what one is going to get no matter how much research is done. And with going to Paris, almost annually since the mid 70s, I've personally found that it takes a different level of expectations than I've had in hotels at the same price point, in many other parts of the world. But, for the most part, the Paris hotels have turned out fine. So, I go and hope that the hotel turns out fine and if it doesn't then I just write down the good experiences in stone and write the not-so-good ones down in sand, so to speak.

Happy Travels!

Check out the Jet Setter web site. They list a few in your price range.

I have recently stayed at the St. Christophe (5th Arr). The accommodations were very comfortable; the double room was typical Paris size but we only slept in it anyway. The bathroom and shower were very good and everything was very clean. The location is great..it is just off Rue Mouffetard (lots of restaurants), close to the Luxemburg Gardens, walking distance to Notre Dame and Ile de la cite, etc. There is a Metro a couple of blocks away.

The best was the very friendly and helpful staff!

Guenmai, I will admit I've always had difficulty with decisions when many choices abound. I have decided though.

Thanks for the suggestion, handy5.

Peony88Peony-- thanks so much. I have made a decision on a hotel, but I appreciate your comment.

Susan: I"m sure that whatever hotel you select, you will still have a great trip. Good luck to you. Smiles.

Happy Travels!

You're concerned about the centrality of the Clement over the Bonaparte. The Clement is 2 or 3 minutes closer to Notre Dame and the Cluny.

The Bonaparte is 2 or 3 minutes closer to the Orsay, Rodin, and St-Sulpice.

My husband and I were in Paris two years ago and the Grand Hotel Saint Michel was recommended to us by friends who had stayed there numerous times. Small four star,boutique hotel, ranked 197 out of 1819 hotels in Paris on Trip Advisor. We loved it.

When you get back, let us know how everything went. Am sure you will have a wonderful time!

Thanks, Cathinjoetown. I have so much on my list of places to visit -- not sure I will have time to see it all, but will start planning my days.

KathleenE -- thanks for your recommendation. I have already booked a hotel.

We have stayed at Hotel Niel (11 Rue Saussier-Leroy, 75017, Paris, 01 42 27 99 29, paris-hotel-niel.com‎), and will stay there again later this year. The hotel is reasonably priced, close to the Metro and a few blocks from the Arc de Triomphe. There is a neighborhood market where you can purchase local produce, cheese and freshly baked breads.

Have you considered staying in a Bed & Breakfast? We're going for the first time in July and that's what we are doing. Check out: Alcove Et Agapes they have a huge variety of clientelle - some very fancy and others basic. The prices are reasonable and you get to meet some neat people, or many have self contained suites.

Thanks, Livedinitaly. I've already booked a hotel in the Saint Germaine area.

Callicotraveller, I checked out Alcove, and have it on file for future reference. Some of the b & b's in their directory look charming.