zeppole

St Cirq, there is far, far more of the 7e than a singular block that is devoted government institutions, much of it near the Tower and the river. People can't have it both ways about this arrondisement: that they love it because it's residential rather than touristy, but what the heck about all those bureaucrats and their buidlings, because they're not tourist attractions.

Thanks for the list, and yes, more is always better. It would be great if you gave some impression of why you personally are recommending them other than that are cheap. I asked for "good" not just cheap. Which ones have you eaten at? I will also note for other readers that your list includes a lot of your restaurants aren't French, some are take-aways, and some aren't open at all in the evening. The reason I no longer stay in the 7e is that I found it lacked a density of casual French restaurants serving good French food where you could drop in for dinner without a reservation.

Keep looking for that phallus. It'll poke up in your vision someday.

myparis2009,

I recommend that you pick your language school first and your apartment second -- and your chosen language school might be very helpful with finding an affordable rental.

Cathiejoetown,

I'm with you that the 14e can be a great place to actually live with good transport options if you find the right quiet corner.

myparis2009

I have narrowed down my language schools to 2 so hopefully this week or next, I'll know which arrondissement I'll need to get to every day. If you come across any apartment sites other than the usual suspects, I'm still looking...