I think another poster answered your question about the Familia having a lift -- yes, small as in most small Paris hotels. Lively? I wouldn't call the immediate area lively in the sense of busy night life, but it is in easy walking distance to Blvd. St. Germaine and all the liveliness you could possibly want. The Familia has another plus that is important to us -- air conditioning. I don't know when you're going, but Paris can get very warm in summer.

We will be there in September. (Same as you, I think?). Around the middle - 17th to 22nd.

Would air con still be needed then?

A/C might be nice if you're going back to the room during the day... or if the street is noisy and you can't sleep with open windows...

We've not needed it the past few times we've been in Sept (or April or May).

Decision made & booked: the Familia. In the end it was pretty much a toss of the coin between that and Jeanne d'Arc. Either would have done.

crckwc1, don't know if our dates in September coincide, but if you come across a couple of mature Kiwis speaking bad French, it just might be us!

twoflower - We, too, considered Jeanne d'Arc but decided on Familia due to (1) having stayed there before -- no surprises and (2) we like air conditioning. So sorry we'll miss you. Our dates are Sept. 5-9. I do hope you are satisfied with Familia. Since I recommended it, I shall feel awful if you're not pleased. Do remember to post here after your trip, sharing your advice. Have a wonderful trip!

Don't feel responsible - we made our own decision. Just glad to have feedback from someone who's been there. Yes, we'll certainly report back. Enjoy your trip, sorry we'll miss you!