Here are five pointers to consider:

• Where do you want to be near?  Do you want to be near the Eiffel Tower, The Seine, Montmartre, The Louvre?   I wanted to be fairly central and near the Champs Elysee so I looked at an area near the Arc de Triomphe.

• Look at hotel ratings and reviews and decide  if you want an economy or luxury hotel.  Please be aware that most hotel rooms will be smaller than you are used to.  The best hotel in Paris will be one you really will one that has enough room for you, the family and your luggage.

• Research these hotels on the internet.  check their actual locations on a map as near a landmark could still be a mile away.

• Decide how you are going to get around the city.  The hop-on-hop-off buses or the subway may also have a bearing in where you stay.  If you are renting a car or planning on taking taxis this may not affect you so much.

• Look at hotel facilities and inclusions. Does the hotel include breakfast?  Does it have a restaurant, tour desk or parking nearby?

Paris is a beautiful city so wherever you stay you will enjoy the experience.  Remember a hotel room is only a place to put your head while discovering the treasures and excitement Paris has to offer.  The best hotel in Paris is really is the one that suits your needs and one you can afford.

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