Just wondered if anybody has run the Paris Marathon before, and could offer any tips that might not apply to other marathons? (logistics, start or finish details, etc.)

When is it? I fly Paris alot and don't want to be there if there are thousands more people.

Previous posts...
"Paris Marathon Trip Report"
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34491268

"Paris half marathon trip report"
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34581514

thanks very much Travelnut - some good tips!

I ran it several years ago, and my only suggestion is to stay close enough that you can walk back from the finish line. Its a huge race, but one of my favorites (30+ marathons).

Do you have your bib number? Or is this for 2008?

Bon Chance! I ran this, my first & only! It's long, has multiple elevations, scenic, crowded, not always blocked off, and well worth it! I would stress the fact that you will be running on cobble stones for a large part of the course (something I did not train for in the US). It will kill you ankles - you wobble a bit more. The last 1 1/2 miles are slightly up hill- thru a park (unless th course has changed)- and has all the glory you will need to get you through! Crowds cheering, kids waving, white tents in sight with water, power bars and massuses waiting!
Excellent suggestion that your hotel is close to the finish line. It's crowded and blocked off so... Make sure you get the paper the next day so you can see your name, bib # & finish time in print! Maybe even a pic! Also, don't do the Catacombes the next day.LOl Good luck & remember - "26.2 - CAN DO!!"

Thanks again.

Yes, race is this year and I already have a BIB number.