I have learned what lines I need to take to take the RER from CDG to Cergy-Pontoise. My problem is this...I shall be towing a heavy suitcase...sorry, but this is a study tour and I need the books...Since I will need to change trains at Chatelet-Les Halles is this going to be a terrible ordeal? I will have been up more than 24 hours so too tired to rent a car. This is a first trip to Paris. Should I consider renting a car with driver at CDG. The trip on the Francilienne motorway bypassing Paris is supposed to be 30min. I would like to have an opinion of price and companies available. Would a hired car be a good idea?

well, honestly - if you can afford it, the hired car is ALWAYS the better option. taxis, etc. if you have to haul a lot of stuff, you don't want to wrestle with it. <BR> <BR>I used to be el cheapo and deal with public transportation - but now that is DEFINITELY a splurge I jump for - even more important than a fancy hotel in my opinion (let's face it, you only sleep in your hotel!!) <BR> <BR>however, don't discount renting a car - it's very easy. don't be afraid of driving in or around Paris (easy for me to say cuz I am on the DC Beltway daily.) <BR> <BR>good luck!! <BR> <BR>Beth

I second Beth's advice: I, too, take the RER from CDG (one rolling bag, small tote, hotel is on the B line so no train change) but would definitely hire the car/driver if I were lugging stuff. Chatelet is a nightmare; huge crowds, loooooong hallways, up and down steps - even just traveling around the city, I avoid Chatelet if I can. <BR> <BR>The driver meets you outside customs, takes your bag to the car (which is usually parked curbside) and drops you at your final destination (remember, when you get to Cergy, you STILL have to get to your lodgings). It might seem like a splurge, but I'd skip a restaurant dinner if it was the only way to fit it into the budget.

Thank you Beth and Elvira...didn't take much persuasion...we all have a budget but I think the car and driver might be a necessity. Do you have a company to recommend? Could I just go to information at CDG and have them call one for me. This is a last minute thing...I'm arriving in Paris on Tues. I just learned about the highway bypassing the city. Thanks again.

Help! I have searched the guidebooks and the web and the only company I could come up with is a stretch limo. I need a name and hopefully a number or web site...I'm leaving tonight. Please help if you can. Thank you

In Paris, we hired a limo for trips to Giverny and Versailles. They have a link to another company that has sedans: <BR>http://www.globe-drivers.com/uscars.htm

Thank you so much Elvira...just in the nick of time. Kelley