Which one of these Paris apartments would you choose?
Nov 18th, 2011, 01:17 PM
#21
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Hi tripgirl,
Don't have time right now to look at all 7....will get to it later. Have had this one bookmarked in the Marais. We are renting from the owner in the 1st in May.
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p210013
Don't have time right now to look at all 7....will get to it later. Have had this one bookmarked in the Marais. We are renting from the owner in the 1st in May.
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p210013
Nov 18th, 2011, 01:30 PM
#22
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Judy , wonderful Judy!
Sooo funny about apt you listed: that was a thoughtbfor 2012 and spoke with Sheila. Love that apt except for 1 thing; too close to Pompidou center for me. I just like the eastern part of Marais much much more
I always trust your opinion so I'm looking forward to your thoughts!!!!!
Sooo funny about apt you listed: that was a thoughtbfor 2012 and spoke with Sheila. Love that apt except for 1 thing; too close to Pompidou center for me. I just like the eastern part of Marais much much more
I always trust your opinion so I'm looking forward to your thoughts!!!!!
Nov 18th, 2011, 01:56 PM
#23
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This agency has some nice places in Marais-
http://www.alacarte-paris-apartments....php#O_935-937
http://www.alacarte-paris-apartments....php#O_935-937
Nov 18th, 2011, 02:02 PM
#24
Are we just tossing out opinions? Okay, my favorite type of thread.
I was recently looking for an apartment for my mom for next spring. Looked at 2bds and 1bd. In the end, unlike your niece, I will be crashing on mom's sofabed for a few days befhore heading to Kenya. I ended up just booking an apartment for mom with GAS again because I knew Philippe and Christophe would take good care of my mother and that I needn't worry about the quality of the apartment. So, take that for what it's worth but there is something to be said for those guys. They're so very professional. And dealing with them will give your niece a French experience to be sure.
In terms of the apartment: I hear you about the island--in fact, I'm not crazy about staying on it--but the apartment you linked to above is terrific. Nice views and if you're only using the kitchen to make coffee, store yogurt and cheese and wine, who cares how small it is?
I also like the vrbo 231542. <b>But</b> I hate those cheapo giant wall clocks (seen 'em when browsing PP apartments too--way too Pottery Barn/Crate & Barrel for me, just feh).
Okay, now that I've gotten that off my chest.
I like that area by Marche des Enfants a lot. However, I wonder if it's not perhaps upscale enough in an external way for you. I would say it is in fact an upscale area, but maybe not as polished as the other areas you seem to like. If you really want to get off the path you've trod pretty well already, I'd think about this one.
The PDR place on rue des Tournelles place is nice. I stayed in a cheap little studio right by Chez Janou once years ago, and I agree with you--perfect location. How much time do you think you will all hang out in the apartment? If not much, I would overlook the small, uncomfy sofa and book here.
I like the other PDR place too--again, do you really want this area? I'd do it gladly but I think we have different priorities.
These aren't particular well-formulated ideas, sorry. Have a great trip (have two great trips)!
I was recently looking for an apartment for my mom for next spring. Looked at 2bds and 1bd. In the end, unlike your niece, I will be crashing on mom's sofabed for a few days befhore heading to Kenya. I ended up just booking an apartment for mom with GAS again because I knew Philippe and Christophe would take good care of my mother and that I needn't worry about the quality of the apartment. So, take that for what it's worth but there is something to be said for those guys. They're so very professional. And dealing with them will give your niece a French experience to be sure.
In terms of the apartment: I hear you about the island--in fact, I'm not crazy about staying on it--but the apartment you linked to above is terrific. Nice views and if you're only using the kitchen to make coffee, store yogurt and cheese and wine, who cares how small it is?
I also like the vrbo 231542. <b>But</b> I hate those cheapo giant wall clocks (seen 'em when browsing PP apartments too--way too Pottery Barn/Crate & Barrel for me, just feh).
Okay, now that I've gotten that off my chest.
I like that area by Marche des Enfants a lot. However, I wonder if it's not perhaps upscale enough in an external way for you. I would say it is in fact an upscale area, but maybe not as polished as the other areas you seem to like. If you really want to get off the path you've trod pretty well already, I'd think about this one.The PDR place on rue des Tournelles place is nice. I stayed in a cheap little studio right by Chez Janou once years ago, and I agree with you--perfect location. How much time do you think you will all hang out in the apartment? If not much, I would overlook the small, uncomfy sofa and book here.
I like the other PDR place too--again, do you really want this area? I'd do it gladly but I think we have different priorities.
These aren't particular well-formulated ideas, sorry. Have a great trip (have two great trips)!
Nov 18th, 2011, 02:32 PM
#25
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Leery
Yes I remember your thread on choosing an apt for your Mom as you are en route to Kenya
I looooovvve Africa; you will love it too!!!!
Your comments are well taken. I really like the looks of Rue Charlot, just haven't stayed there so of course I'm kinda teetering that one
I agree, I just love men at GAS, wanna take them home with me!!!what apt did you rent for next spring??
Yes I remember your thread on choosing an apt for your Mom as you are en route to Kenya
I looooovvve Africa; you will love it too!!!!
Your comments are well taken. I really like the looks of Rue Charlot, just haven't stayed there so of course I'm kinda teetering that one
I agree, I just love men at GAS, wanna take them home with me!!!what apt did you rent for next spring??
Nov 18th, 2011, 02:41 PM
#27
Thanks. I'm a bit leery of myself sometimes.
You know what I think it comes down to? Is the priority of this trip to give your niece the ultimate Paris experience? If so, I think the GAS apartment with a view onto the Seine is a no-brainer. Otherwise I think exploring a new area would be lots of fun. Your niece I'm sure will have a wonderful time no matter which arr. or apt. you choose.
You know what I think it comes down to? Is the priority of this trip to give your niece the ultimate Paris experience? If so, I think the GAS apartment with a view onto the Seine is a no-brainer. Otherwise I think exploring a new area would be lots of fun. Your niece I'm sure will have a wonderful time no matter which arr. or apt. you choose.
Nov 18th, 2011, 02:46 PM
#28
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You're right Leely, I think any of the 7 would be great, I think I chose well, but only one can win.
I'll keep pondering... It will come to me
So what GAS apt did you rent for next spring ?
I'll keep pondering... It will come to me
So what GAS apt did you rent for next spring ?
Nov 18th, 2011, 02:54 PM
#29
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I do think you might regret not staying in the Marais as you've been talking about doing so for quite some time. So I think you should chose from your Marais options which are all good.
Apt #1 looked fine but that review would put me off.
Apt #2 I did like renting from Pam & Cheryl, liked their other apartment better and had friends in this one which was really fine. I like having AC just in case we need it. Location couldn't be better for metro and bus transportation
Apt #3 the decor just did not appeal to me but apt was OK
Apt #4 good location, has AC
Apt #5 It is bright, has great reviews....would want to know if bathtub has shower. Good location and decor is appealing.
It is all so subjective. Where AC is important to me (was in Paris once in early June when it was sweltering but have been many more times when it wasn't) an elevator might make the difference for someone else. I think all of your apartments have decor which equals most hotels you could book and all are in good locations. Whenever we go to Paris, we enjoy what we've rented and do not even consider what we didn't book....you'll have a great trip with Addy in any of these!
Apt #1 looked fine but that review would put me off.
Apt #2 I did like renting from Pam & Cheryl, liked their other apartment better and had friends in this one which was really fine. I like having AC just in case we need it. Location couldn't be better for metro and bus transportation
Apt #3 the decor just did not appeal to me but apt was OK
Apt #4 good location, has AC
Apt #5 It is bright, has great reviews....would want to know if bathtub has shower. Good location and decor is appealing.
It is all so subjective. Where AC is important to me (was in Paris once in early June when it was sweltering but have been many more times when it wasn't) an elevator might make the difference for someone else. I think all of your apartments have decor which equals most hotels you could book and all are in good locations. Whenever we go to Paris, we enjoy what we've rented and do not even consider what we didn't book....you'll have a great trip with Addy in any of these!
Nov 18th, 2011, 03:14 PM
#30
Oh, I booked her in the Ortensia in Saint-Paul. Cannot wait to read what you think of the Hyacinth. Is that the really glamorous one with all the views and the curtains that make a second "bedroom"?
Judy seems to have a good handle on your choices (I kept getting confused about which one is which).
If you do end up staying out that way (Charlot, etc.), the Canal St. Martin I remember as kinda young-and-buzzy feeling. Not sure that's a positive or a negative. I liked it.
Judy seems to have a good handle on your choices (I kept getting confused about which one is which).
If you do end up staying out that way (Charlot, etc.), the Canal St. Martin I remember as kinda young-and-buzzy feeling. Not sure that's a positive or a negative. I liked it.
Nov 18th, 2011, 06:20 PM
#32
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One thing though that I just remembered to remember!!
In perhaps a rare case of an apt falling through close to when we are supposed to arrive, my fear is that choosing among my 7, I only feel confident that GAS or PP would come through with another apt.
This fear may be totally unfounded though, just thought I'd mention it.
If this happened to DH and I only, no big deal, but I'd like things to go well with my niece in tow( nothing is ever perfect,but you all know what I mean )
Thoughts?
In perhaps a rare case of an apt falling through close to when we are supposed to arrive, my fear is that choosing among my 7, I only feel confident that GAS or PP would come through with another apt.
This fear may be totally unfounded though, just thought I'd mention it.
If this happened to DH and I only, no big deal, but I'd like things to go well with my niece in tow( nothing is ever perfect,but you all know what I mean )
Thoughts?
Nov 18th, 2011, 07:50 PM
#33
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Just a thought from another Aunt who in the last few years has taken several nieces and nephews ages 14-21 to Paris for a special trip. I still remember each trip that I made with them and I am not sure who had a better time, myself or the kids. I asked each one to research Paris and make a list of what they wanted to see or do. I made sure that we went to all of the places they wanted to see and added some of my own suggestions.
No matter which apartment you take your niece will have a fabulous trip and always remember her first trip to Paris with people who obviously love her.
Have a great time.
No matter which apartment you take your niece will have a fabulous trip and always remember her first trip to Paris with people who obviously love her.
Have a great time.
Nov 19th, 2011, 04:08 AM
#34
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Oh Addy already has her Paris homework as I stated when I first posted this post
She has her list to complete; it will make her research Paris to the hilt! She's excited to dig in!
I'm still welcoming more input on my 7 choices
She has her list to complete; it will make her research Paris to the hilt! She's excited to dig in!
I'm still welcoming more input on my 7 choices
Nov 20th, 2011, 06:47 AM
#35
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Tripgirl--I haven't posted here before, but you might recognize me from TA and OPF (I think you've been on OPF??). Jody knows me and can vouch for me 
I stayed in your second Paris Deluxe Rentals apartment on rue des Tournelles this past summer (http://www.parisdeluxerentals.com/ma...ce-des-vosges/). We were 5 women on a girls trip, and the place suited us nicely. Since the photos were taken, there has been an additional sofa added, so there are 2 nice sofas in addition to the 2 arm chairs. It's really comfortable for lounging about.
I can also tell you that the kitchen is nice--might look a bit small from the photo, but there were frequently 2 of us puttering in there and didn't feel squishy. We loved how close the apartment is to the Bastille market.
The people at Paris Deluxe Rentals are very nice to deal with. They send someone to meet you at the apartment and show you how everything works, and they come back the day of your departure to return your deposit--so there is no waiting for it to come in the mail.
As for booking with GAS, I'll remind you that they don't book more than 6 months in advance, which might cramp your style a little in this case. I absolutely LOVE them tho and agree with all the comments here--they are simply the best! We've rented from them, and have also entrusted our own apartment to their professional management.
I stayed in your second Paris Deluxe Rentals apartment on rue des Tournelles this past summer (http://www.parisdeluxerentals.com/ma...ce-des-vosges/). We were 5 women on a girls trip, and the place suited us nicely. Since the photos were taken, there has been an additional sofa added, so there are 2 nice sofas in addition to the 2 arm chairs. It's really comfortable for lounging about.
I can also tell you that the kitchen is nice--might look a bit small from the photo, but there were frequently 2 of us puttering in there and didn't feel squishy. We loved how close the apartment is to the Bastille market.
The people at Paris Deluxe Rentals are very nice to deal with. They send someone to meet you at the apartment and show you how everything works, and they come back the day of your departure to return your deposit--so there is no waiting for it to come in the mail.
As for booking with GAS, I'll remind you that they don't book more than 6 months in advance, which might cramp your style a little in this case. I absolutely LOVE them tho and agree with all the comments here--they are simply the best! We've rented from them, and have also entrusted our own apartment to their professional management.
Nov 20th, 2011, 02:20 PM
#36
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Thanks Annette
Yes I do know you from TA and have always admired your comments and contributions not to mention I'm insanely jealous that you have an actual second home in Paris. Your Alysium GAS apt is so lovely!!
Today I'm leaning towards the Apartments Actually( I erroneously called them Apartments Absolutely earlier in my post)on Rue Charlot. DH really likes the looks of it. Sarah Pank the owner has been fast on the emails and there is indeed 2 toilets( one of my concerns)
However, I love"my guys" at GAS and yes I know they only book out 6 months in advance, but no worries. The Lys is still in the running.
I'd love any more thoughts you might have as I know you've been all over Paris especially as you hunted for your apartment
Yes I do know you from TA and have always admired your comments and contributions not to mention I'm insanely jealous that you have an actual second home in Paris. Your Alysium GAS apt is so lovely!!
Today I'm leaning towards the Apartments Actually( I erroneously called them Apartments Absolutely earlier in my post)on Rue Charlot. DH really likes the looks of it. Sarah Pank the owner has been fast on the emails and there is indeed 2 toilets( one of my concerns)
However, I love"my guys" at GAS and yes I know they only book out 6 months in advance, but no worries. The Lys is still in the running.
I'd love any more thoughts you might have as I know you've been all over Paris especially as you hunted for your apartment
Nov 21st, 2011, 03:54 PM
#37
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Just an update
Sarah Pank from Apartments Actually emailed me and:
The apt on Rue Charlot( the white one) has two toilets, one en suite and one separate but right near the 2nd bathroom and both bathrooms have fixed ( and hand held) showers; one is a large walk in shower and one is a tub/ shower
So my questions are now answered about that apt
Seriously considering this one
Sarah Pank from Apartments Actually emailed me and:
The apt on Rue Charlot( the white one) has two toilets, one en suite and one separate but right near the 2nd bathroom and both bathrooms have fixed ( and hand held) showers; one is a large walk in shower and one is a tub/ shower
So my questions are now answered about that apt
Seriously considering this one
Nov 21st, 2011, 05:52 PM
#38
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Tripgirl
I've been following along with no comment, but I have to tell you that I LOVE the Rue Charlot apt. And its in the Marais!
We are in the midst of planning a trip to Paris and Provence for Septmemer. I've enjoyed following your search.
I've been following along with no comment, but I have to tell you that I LOVE the Rue Charlot apt. And its in the Marais!
We are in the midst of planning a trip to Paris and Provence for Septmemer. I've enjoyed following your search.
Nov 21st, 2011, 05:58 PM
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Thanks Chutney
If this is your first trio to Paris and/or Provence, you'll love them both. I have a girlfriend who owns a cooking school in Arles; the entire area is a dream
And if this is your first time in Paris you are going to love it; I've been going for years
If this is your first trio to Paris and/or Provence, you'll love them both. I have a girlfriend who owns a cooking school in Arles; the entire area is a dream
And if this is your first time in Paris you are going to love it; I've been going for years
Nov 22nd, 2011, 06:25 AM
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Okay, I had a chance to "study" all the apartments this morning
I like the rue Charlot by Apartments Actually the best, and it seems to tick all your boxes, especially since you really really want to base a stay in the Marais. I've learned over a few years of playing tour guide in Paris, that I need to include things that make ME happy too, and not to revolve everything around my first-timer friends--so booking an apartment in the Marais would do that for you! I've never stayed on/near rue Charlot, but it is a charming area. My only hesitation would be that I'm not familiar with the agency, so I'd want to check them out thoroughly before I send money.
My second choice would be Lys by GAS. I love staying on the island; the apartment looks SO French; it would be fun to have that view on the river; and lastly, because it's with GAS and I love them and trust them implicitly! Have you heard that they have recently moved into a new, very large suite of offices on the island? We saw it just before completion this summer, and it's beautiful--like entering a luxury boutique hotel lobby. As soon as they are more settled, they are going to host a weekly cocktail hour for all their guests which I think will be a nice extra touch.
I crossed Cecile's apartment off the list right away. While her apartments are absolutely gorgeous, I've read enough questionable reviews about her dealings to shy away.
That's my 2 cents!
I like the rue Charlot by Apartments Actually the best, and it seems to tick all your boxes, especially since you really really want to base a stay in the Marais. I've learned over a few years of playing tour guide in Paris, that I need to include things that make ME happy too, and not to revolve everything around my first-timer friends--so booking an apartment in the Marais would do that for you! I've never stayed on/near rue Charlot, but it is a charming area. My only hesitation would be that I'm not familiar with the agency, so I'd want to check them out thoroughly before I send money.
My second choice would be Lys by GAS. I love staying on the island; the apartment looks SO French; it would be fun to have that view on the river; and lastly, because it's with GAS and I love them and trust them implicitly! Have you heard that they have recently moved into a new, very large suite of offices on the island? We saw it just before completion this summer, and it's beautiful--like entering a luxury boutique hotel lobby. As soon as they are more settled, they are going to host a weekly cocktail hour for all their guests which I think will be a nice extra touch.
I crossed Cecile's apartment off the list right away. While her apartments are absolutely gorgeous, I've read enough questionable reviews about her dealings to shy away.
That's my 2 cents!
