You may think a trip to Paris would be the vacation of a lifetime, but choosing the right hotel can make the difference between a good vacation and a great one. Take some time before you leave to find the perfect accommodations.
Get a map of Paris and pinpoint the things you want to see in the city. Then you have a starting point; try to find a suitable hotel that is centrally located.
Decide if you are looking for luxury or ambience. The Right Bank typically offers more luxury hotels, while the hotels on the Left Bank cater to people looking for lower prices and more old-world charm.
Check with a professional travel agency or service to find out which recommended hotels may be within your budget.
Find out the current exchange rate of French francs to dollars. All rates will be quoted in francs, and it will help if you can translate that to dollars without much thinking.
Go online to take a look at some of your prospective choices. Microsoft Expedia, Travelocity and Preview Travel all offer copious amounts of information about hotels in Paris, and there are some you can book online.
Use a Paris guidebook to find accommodations near the sites you want to see in Paris. Keep in mind it is usually cheaper to stay at hotels that are a little further away from the best sights, but still within walking distance.
Plan to visit Paris during the off-season (late fall to early spring). Hotels often offer specials during this time to help them get through the slow season.
Call, fax or e-mail in your reservation. Make sure you get a written confirmation from the hotel and the name of the person with whom you spoke.
Confirm your reservation at least 48 hours in advance of the day you plan to leave. This should prevent any confusion when you arrive.
