12 Questions to ask before renting a Paris vacation Pied-a-Terre


Ask any seasoned traveler, he or she will insist the only way to experience Paris is in
your own vacation apartment. Fortunately, there is no shortage of vacation apartments in
Paris but where do you begin and what questions do you ask?

First decide it if you want to rough the waters on your own or book with an agency.

If you decide to deal with owners directly, the golden seal of vacation rentals is VRBO
(vacation rentals by owner) www.vrbo.com. You might strike gold or you might be stuck
with a dud. Unfortunately, most owners will not be able to accept credit cards and will
ask for cash directly. If you wire funds to a personal bank account and the apartment
doesn’t fit your standards of what you expected, you have absolutely no recourse. If that
frightens you at all, I strongly suggest working with a US based agency that accepts
credit cards.Your credit card company will fight for your rights , if you feel that you have
been ripped off.

For value focused apartments, a medium range agency is Book Your Paris Apartment,
www.bookyourapt.com, they offer a selection of comfortable, value focused apartments
in prime arrondissements in Paris. For those with a high end taste and a wallet for
luxury, I can’t think of a better agency, than Paris Luxe Apartments,
www.parisluxeapt.com, their luxury portfolio consists primarily of larger size, luxury
apartments in Paris. Expect a collection of Paris apartments ideal for affluent families
wanting to experience Paris as a true Parisian family.

Regardless of the direction you choose, make sure you ask these questions:

1. How many people will the apartment sleep? Is there an additional charge for
   use of the sofa bed? What is the bed configuration, twin, double or King.
   
   
2. Is there a 7 night minimum stay? If you are staying over 4 weeks, ask if there is a
   discount?
   
   
3. Does the apartment allow children under 15? Are pets allowed? Is smoking
   permitted?
   
   
4. What is the nearest Metro? Where is the nearest taxi stand?
   
   
5. Is there a supermarket nearby? Is there a noisy restaurant or bar on the ground floor?
   
   
6. What floor is the apartment on? Is there an elevator in the building?
   
   
7. Does the apartment have a washer/dryer? Does the phone allow for
   International calls? Does the television have English speaking channels? Is the
   kitchen fully equipped?
   
   
8. Whom can you call in case of problems or emergency? Is the person fluent in
   English? Will he/she be available around the clock or for a limited time?
   
   
9. Are sheets and towels included in the apartment? Does the apartment come
   with a “starter kit” few groceries and toiletries.
   
   
10. What is not included in the rental fee? Is Internet and housekeeping included?
    
    
11. Do you have a booking contract that I can review?
    
    
12. Can I contact previous guests either via phone or email?

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