Le Marais

Manicured hedges in a hidden garden off of Rue Francs-Bourgeois in the Marais district

There’s nothing like touring Paris by bike. Even though I prefer walking, just for the sake of discovering hidden places, there is something quite fun and energetic about getting on a bike from time to time.

As you may know, decent hotels in Paris are expensive and cheap hotel rooms are tiny. For a stay over a week, an apartment rental is the most economical and comfortable option. I recommend booking six months ahead for ever-popular Paris. I pursued only rental services recommended on travel blogs. Using this method, I contacted Thierry at http://www.parisbestlodge.com. Thierry was booked up, but recommended his friend Pascal at http://www.parisnicehome.com. Pascal had a studio available in the heart of the Marais, just where we wanted to be, for about the price of a 2-star hotel. The studio was two blocks from the metro and a major shopping street. Included were a comfortable sofa bed, kitchenette, table/chairs, clothes washer, TV, and small bathroom. We used the kitchenette to make a large brunch every morning that got us through the day to an early dinner, saving lots of €€. We loved food shopping in nearby stores. The sofa bed folded into a couch where we sat at ease to read and catch up with TV news after our adventures. We ran laundry in the evening while planning the next day. Walking up the three flights to the apartment helped burn off all that bread and cheese. Pascal was good to work with. Among the thoughtful touches were advance deposit by U.S. check (uncashed/refunded on departure) and keys available on arrival in a key safe at the apartment. We are now fans of the apartment solution and happily anticipate our next trip to Paris.