We are not exactly sure of our dates for Paris in October since we're flying on airline buddy passes. We are thinking we might wait to book our room or apartment until a day or two before we get there. Has anyone had luck doing this? Looks like the majority of apartment sites have a strict cancellation policy, meaning you pay full price, even if you can't come.
Posted by
Redding, California
244 posts
We actually lucked out with our apartment rental in Paris. Four days before arriving our apartment was cancelled! We contacted Paris Perfect here and we were able to find a last minute deal at 30% off. The apartment was amazing and we were thankful for this last minute booking.
Posted by
Paris
2466 posts
This is a good site for hotels - best if you can book about a week in advance.
http://www.france-hotel-guide.com/en/paris-hotels-deals.php
Apartments are more complicated. Most want a deposit, which won't be refundable after a certain date.
Also look on www.booking.com which allows last minute cancellations in many cases.
Posted by
Boston
11 posts
we always book rooms through Marriott. Their cancellation policy is very good, usually the day before arrival. their hotels are similar to those in the US so you know what to expect other than the strict occupancy rules.
Posted by
Florida (previously California)
3689 posts
You can always find last minute accommodations in Paris. Even at its busiest, the city's hotels do not have 100% occupancy. The questions are always how much will you pay and what is the price to value ration meaning that lousy places will probably always have availability and so will the most expensive. The tougher finds will be the places that give good value for the money, which are usually booked well in advance. On the other hand many vacation rental places do have last minute specials and October would be as good a time as any based on historic occupancy rates to wait until the last minute to make reservations. I have gone to Paris at the last minute in early November and had no problem finding a room and my budget was under 200 euros per night for a double.