Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Choosing a Flat
Some important things to consider:
Neighbourhood. The range of characteristics is wide
in Paris, including some pretty dangerous spots at
night up in the north of the city (the 18th and 19th
arrondissements ) where drugs are a problem. But even
here you will i nd very nice areas. Rather than hunt all
over town, stick with a couple of neighbourhoods you
like, walk through them to spot louer signs in windows,
or at the small agences which usually both sell and
rent apartments. If you are renting short-term, you
will be better serviced by private companies on the
internet featuring short-term furnished rentals such
as iloveparisapartments.com. These are often run by
native English speakers.
Quel étage? The higher up the apartment, the more
light and air you will have. If there is an elevator in the
building, the l ats high up will be expensive. If not, they
will get cheaper as you go up. In older buildings, the
most elegant apartments are on the lower l oors. They
will have high ceilings, tall windows and fancy interior
details. Don't be put off by something on the i fth
l oor without an elevator, however, unless you have
serious physical disabilities. You really do get used
to climbing stairs and that extra bit of exercise will
help your body compensate for the rich French meals
to come.
Noise. Paris streets are noisy. And the main roads
through tiny little villages have trucks (lorries)
thundering through all night. Consider your tolerance
for this. (I have learned to consider the sound of sirens
a lullaby.) Most French apartments have window
shutters that close out noise, but they also close out
light and air. Apartments opening onto courtyards,
away from the street, are usually more expensive
because they are quiet. If there are many apartments
 
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