St Germain or Opera
 

I haven't been to Paris for a while (five years) and couldn't decide whether it is better to stay in the Opera area (like last time) or try St. Germain. Any suggestions?
Thanks

Since you've already stayed on the Right Bank, why not try the Left this time around?

Hi irisha,

Be adventurous, stay in another part of town. :)

What's your budget?

((I))

I have earmarked two three star hotels on either side, so it is not so much a matter of budget. It is more like which is more Paris than the other!

I think what is "more Paris" depends on your personal definition of Paris. My daughter and my cousin both feel that the right bank arrondisements are "more Paris" to them: high end and designer shops; large retail emporiums; the Place Vendome; the fanciest hotels; the Bourse; the theaters; and more. They like to be around the Place Madeleine (sp?) and other large monumental sites and squares.

Me, I like the color and feel of St. Germaine and some other left bank areas. On the right, I also like the Marais, but my cousin and daughter think it is too scruffy and bohemian.

So, what are your tastes?

I guess you are right, it is a matter of taste and Paris has these two faces. Off course it is not a matter of visiting one part and missing the other. It is feeling the life in the city when you get up in the morning and return to at night. There is also the matter of convenience (ease of fro and back) when going around shopping (between site seeing) and droping things.