I've spent the last 2 days reading the boards, but am really overwhelmed. 2 years ago this board helped me immensely planning my first European vacation---to Rome. We stayed at the Grand Minerve and had a wonderful experience with everything, largely due to info from this board.

I'd really appreciate suggestions for starters as to where to stay. I'd like something in the center of everything, where we can walk to as much as possible, and probably a 4 star hotel, similar to the Grand Minerve in Rome in location and ambience. I'm having a difficult time getting focused and would appreciate input.

Thanks so much, Nancy

Look at the Hotel Buci - smack in the center of Saint Germain des Prés.

http://www.bucihotel.com/en/visit.htm

Go for a suite or at least a superior room.

That's kind of a tough one because I don't know the Grand Minerve, maybe other folks will have stayed there. However, from what I've read, that is not just a typical 4* hotel, but a luxury hotel (I've seen it rated 5* or 5*L). I guess you are willing to pay around 400 euro a night? It's just that a lot of 4* Parisian hotels won't have that level of facilities -- a 4* hotel won't necessarily have a restaurant, for example, if you care about that, nor a fitness room.

there are so many nice hotels in Paris, though, and I don't frequent that level, so maybe if you have read a little about Paris you'd have an idea of area which might appeal to you. Right Bank is typically more traditional luxury/expensive, top shopping, etc., and a lot of the expensive luxury hotels, but there are some nice ones on the Left Bank.

Just one suggestion, perhaps the Hotel Pont Royal would work as it has a very good central location (near the Musee d'Orsay) and you will be able to walk to a lot. They do have a fitness room, I guess, and their restaurant is Joel Robuchon's Atelier (which I liked, but many do not -- I went there shortly after it opened, though, and I think prices have gone up). There are many restaurants around there, though, so that's not really a worry. It's not a traditional restaurant place, anyway, just kind of for fun. I just think this hotel is probably at the level you are seeking and a good location. Rates are around 300 euro a night, I think.

http://www.hotel-pont-royal.com

thanks for the input so far. I'm checking out the suggestions. I'm willing to pay in the $500 per night range, maybe a little more.

Hi A,

You might want to look at the 4 & 5* hotels at www.Parisby.com.

Parisby.com is a great resource but I'm not sure if it is the "focus" you came here for.

Another 4* that has everything you want is the Hotel d' Aubusson. It in the midst of the Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood and all its offerings. It is 2 blocks to Notre Dame and 4 blocks to the Louvre. There are 3 Metro stops within a few blocks of the hotel.

http://www.hoteldaubusson.com