will the hotels be full in beg of december or empty? any discounts?? any suggestions?? <BR>thanks.

I don't really trust Paris at any time of year; groups have conventions there at the oddest time. So, for me, I'd say book ahead, no matter what. I don't know about discounts from the States, but maybe somebody else does. If you are looking for a decent but not terribly expensive hotel, a two-star in the fifth arrondissement (the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank) is a good option. You'll be within walking distance of some of the best sights in Paris-- Notre Dame Cathedral, to name just one. <BR>In December, be sure to pack warm clothes and rain gear. Also get a copy of Pariscope (on sale at just about any news stand) to find out what's happening. Concerts, restaurants, the whole city life should be in full swing!

Definitely book ahead of time in Paris. I have booked through www.hotelboulevard.com <BR>They have hotels at all different prices, so you can see a variety of hotels and find one at a price you're willing to pay. I've only travelled to Paris in the spring, so I don't know about December, sorry.

Do book ahead! Better safe than sorry as the old saying goes. We have been to Paris about 8 times including Christmas a few yrs back, and the temperatures were fairly mild (for Dec.) but you can't count on the weather anyplace at any time of the year. <BR> <BR>You might try contacting Best Western Hotels at their toll free number and ask for International Hotels. (They also bhave a good website). BW in Europe is NOT like in the U.S. Most are just small independent hotels and many are very quaint, etc. We stayed at the Residence Hotel Trocadero this past April because we needed to be in that area. The rooms were small (pretty common in Paris, and most of Europe) but the location was great. We were right at the Trocadero, we could see the Eiffel Tower from our windows, the Metro (Trocodero stop) was across the street, there are several cafes, etc. right outside the door and the rate was $93 a night including buffet breakfast. As I said the room was not huge, but we did not spend alot of time in it -- the bathroom was good sized tho and the staff were all very nice. Incidentally, BW has Senior rates for anyone that is interested in that too. ' <BR> <BR>You can always ask the hotel if they have any promotions or discounts that you qualify for ... you never know until you ask. <BR> <BR>

I spent last two weeks in France last December, most of it in Paris. We had no trouble getting hotels, but we planned 6-9 months ahead of time. We also used a travel agent that specialized in France. She was full of great tips and knew some great hotels. <BR>We stayed at the Prince de Conti, 8 rue Guenegaud, 75006 Paris Phone (33) 01 44 07 30 40. It is a renovated 18th century mansion on the Left Bank in the Latin Quarter. Has only 26 rooms and each is beautifully decorated. The staff was incredibly helpful and kind. <BR>Rates included a buffet breakfast. The cost was approx $200 per night, but that was for a triple. Will stay there again the next time. A short walk will get you to some great jazz clubs, incredible restaurants and all the culture you can stand! We walked to the Orsay, Louvre, Notre Dame. The weather was gray and damp! Bring an umbrella or slicker. The temperature was what you would experience in the midwest in December, 30's or 40's. <BR>It was great experiencing the holiday in Paris. Everything flocked!! Hope you enjoy yours.

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