<<They're not really pricier than "most" apartments in Paris,>>

Of course they are, that is simply a fact. They are very expensive for people with lots of money to burn. The fact that there are some others at the same rate doesn't make them the same as most apartments in Paris.

As for pros/cons, pros might be more space and kitchen facilities, and washer/dryer if you get one that has one (many do not).

There are lots of cons -- you have to pay lots of money in advance, and it won't be refundable (you can't move and get your money back if you hate the place). You are often giving lots of money and planning your vacation based on a total stranger you know nothing about. The apt. may not have things that work the way you expected or at all or could have other drawbacks like no elevator, very uncomfortable, cheap furniture, things like that. You don't have help from any front desk staff to call taxis or answer questions, etc. The majority of the ones in Paris do not have air conditioning, so if you go in summer, you will be limited in selection and they'll cost a lot more. They are not particularly cost effective for a single person, you can get more for the same money in hotels (but if you are at least a couple, that won't matter). Other cons are I think it isolates you from the experience of being in Paris, which is one reason why I don't get why so many people want them and want to hole up in apartments having breakfast and making their own meals. I prefer to be out and about in Paris when I visit it, and that includes breakfast.

I don't stay in hotels with only a narrow space around my bed, there is no reason that this is the only alternative to an apartment.

If you are there 10-14 days, I can see why one might want more space than a hotel, for short stays, I don't see the point. However, if you are on a tight budget, I can't imagine why you'd choose Paris Perfect since it is so expensive.

I will certainly take exception to the statement by Christina!! It is most certainly incorrect!!

These are NOT very expensive for people with lots of money to burn! I stay in them regularly and I am NOT a person with lots of money to burn!!

There are other nice apartments in the same price range as Paris Perfect!!

Joan

We do not have lots of money to burn. Off-season and with discounts, we can afford Paris Perfect. High season, we frequently look elsewhere.

Christina often seems to think that her thoughts and ways are the only way. That she knows best!

We all know what is best for us. I very much resent someone putting words in my mouth. I do not do that in my posts for others. I only say what works for me. If that is helpful to someone else, then I am pleased that I have been helpful.

There are many very expensive apartments in Paris..way beyond what the Paris Perfect prices are. There are many good outfits that have comparable prices.

Prices, budgets are for all to decide for themselves. I have said before that people like to spend their money in different ways..some food..some lodging..some both!! Some neither..they are here for the sight-seeing only. That's the way it should be.

a bientot...

Joan

>Other cons are I think it isolates you from the experience of being in Paris, which is one reason why I don't get why so many people want them and want to hole up in apartments having breakfast and making their own meals.<

I feel that an apartment does the opposite of isolating me from Paris. I usually end up in a residential building where Parisians live rather than in a hotel filled with other tourists. I'm close to restaurants, cafes and shops that Parisians frequent and tourists are less likely to frequent.

I don't think very many people who rent apartments hole up in them. I like keeping milk, cheese, yogurt, fruit and juice in a fridge so I can have breakfast in my pjs while I'm getting ready for the day. I'm out the door early and usually come back exhausted in the early evening, throw my feet up on the coffee table, have a glass of wine, get a second wind and head out for a late dinner.

frankdaddy is not the original poster. He piggybacked onto this thread. The OP was on a budget.

To a degree, I agree with Cristina. I don't rent from vrbo. I prefer an agency that comes recommended and apaprtments that have been reviewed. OntDave, look at the reviews on www.slowtrav.com. There's also lots more helpful information at that site.

And maybe if I traveled by myself, I might prefer a hotel. But traveling with my husband -- who craves space -- apartments work out so much better. And, since I don't like an early start, it's comfortable and convenient to have breakfast in an apartment. Whereas breakfast in a French cafe consists of one cup of coffee and one croissant. You can get more of course, but that's standard. I drink more than one cup of coffee in the morning. And my husband eats a lot more than one croissant.

Cristina, you seem a little defensive. If you like hotels, fine. But it's not real French life. And, nowadays the people staffing hotels are not necessarily French.

As far as an apartment for cooking..not me. I'm afraid I don't cook at home and you can be sure I am not coming to Paris to cook! I might use the Nespresso and go out and pick up a small baguette and croissant. Also go to Davoli and pick up some of their wonderful food..that is cooking for me!

I like the space of an apt. A hotel gets old in a hurry. If only for a few days, OK. I stay longer now..to avoid..the miserable flight coming up so soon. Flying is not fun anymore!
I have all the amenities that I have at home..maybe more in some ways!

As to VRBO. You will find that many of the apt. companies also list on VRBO, and now Trip Advisor is connected with Flipkey for rentals and the companies also list there. They are definitely not only individual owners. They will usually have their website on the listing, too.

You get to know the people and shopkeepers in your area.Because I stay in the same area all the time, it feels like home when I arrive. I have the local office here that will take care of any need that I have. Very guest satisfaction oriented. They only want to please.

a bientot...

Joan

I think everyone was answering frankdaddy since the OP has come and gone from Paris and has posted a trip report.

I think it's silly to be so judgmental of how people choose to spend their money. Different things are important to different people. Some people shop, others dine out at starred restaurants, others like minimal hotels or apartments, and others like plusher places to stay. Who cares? I don't travel the same as many here, but I enjoy reading about their experiences and usually always learn something new about Paris. I think the best thing to consider is value for the money spent.

I do agree with amwosu that staying in an apartment is far from isolating. You actually get a taste of living in a place--going to the bakery, figuring out the trash sorting, finding the supermarket, shopping at the wonderful open air markets. I have much more interaction with Parisians when staying in an apartment as well as having the usual tourist interactions of eating in restaurants.

Make decisions on what pleases you--after all, it's your vacation.