With all the recent riots in Paris, are there areas I should avoid when searching for a hotel?
There were really no riots in Paris. There was a manifestation at Place de la Concorde, and some looting at les Halls, particularly at the Nike store.
Safety for those in Paris was never threatened, however, I would not look for hotels in Nanterre.
I prefer staying on the left bank, I prefer the ambience, and it feels less "crowded" to me. it also feels "safer" to me when there is an uptick in protests that sometimes turn violent and that seem to be more prevalent on the right bank. On the right bank, in particular, I would steer clear of the area from the Bastille to Republique during protest periods.
Thank you!!