 There are scores of websites and companies that rent mid- to high-end Apartments in Paris, which are great places to stay if you’re looking for more plush surroundings. But while many owners will rent a short-term vacation apartment from an agency, the most economical way to stay in Paris is to find an apartment that’s for rent by owner. These deals may require a bit of digging, as residents will often post to online bulletin boards or send out e-mails to friends to pass on rather than listing them with agencies. Aside from being less-expensive than a hotel, a benefit of renting an Apartment in Paris is that you can save big-time by skipping hotel breakfasts and get your own freshly-baked pain au chocolat from that charming little pastry shop on the corner. The upside to renting an apartment over checking in to a hotel is the price, the fun of staying in a neighborhood and living with the locals, and having a kitchen to cook in. The downsides?…
If you’re looking for a desk clerk or maid service, forget it. If you’re staying in an apartment, there usually isn’t anyone to call for museum hours, restaurant reservations, of if there’s a problem. Ask if they have someone you can call in case of an emergency.
The owner’s stuff may be there if you’re renting an apartment directly from an owner. You should expect a set of clean sheets (ask), as well as towels. But don’t necessarily expect fluffy stacks of high thread-count, brand-new linens or spacious, empty closets with lots of space.
With any apartment, you’ll pay a premium for location. Apartments in the Marais or Left Bank will be more expensive than other neighborhoods. Similarly, space is valuable in Paris, too. A studio will be far less than a 1 or 2-bedroom apartment. Consider how much time you’ll really be spending in your apartment and that tiny—and less-expensive—studio will probably be just fine.
Many rentals advertised may be from owners who are not legally entitled to rent their apartments. Keep in mind that they may not have insurance to cover events, such as personal and accident coverage.
Other things to inquire about: what floor is the apartment on, is there an elevator, what is the neighborhood like, are the owners smokers, can you use any food in the kitchen, are there any pets or plants, does the building have a guardienne, and ask if they can leave any instructions for operating the appliances as European machines work differently than their American counterparts.
Ask about a security deposit and how the rent will be paid, as well as the length of time before the deposit is returned. In spite of what some of the travel wags are telling you, few in Paris are interested in giving someone a deal who wants to pay in dollars.
Respect the owner’s belongings. Don’t snoop, and if you break something, leave a note and offer payment.
For those who want to be wired, ask about Internet. Paris has free WiFi in nearly 400 public parks and spaces, too.
The first 9 arrondissements are considered the most desirable by visitors, although there are great places in other areas, too. Parts of the 10th, 17th, and 20th are not to be overlooked. But avoid areas where you’ll feel uncomfortable, especially on the outer reaches of the métro lines. Taxis can be scarce in Paris, especially late at night.
Make sure to get explicit instructions and directions from the owner about the apartment. Many places in Paris have door codes, numbered elevators, and what-have-you, which can be confusing if you’re jet-lagged and unaccustomed to Parisian apartment buildings. Print them out and bring them with you.
Always take caution sending money to strangers in advance and ask for references that you can telephone (not email) so you can confirm, to avoid being scammed. Never send money by telegram or Western Union, or places where you can’t verify the owner or get a refund. Some of the B&B websites have online reviews or verify owners, for an additional measure of assurance.
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