4 Star vs. 3 Star in Paris

Are these Rick recommended hotels? I would look at reviews for the hotels. Look at TripAdvisor.com

Never mind rick, if you can get into the Henri ( it books up ) go for it. It is not a luxury hotel per se, most 3 stars are not, but it is very nice, and in a good location.

The star system is misleading, stars are not awarded for luxe facilities, but rather for just having some list of amenities present. They may be poor quality , but as long as hotel has them,, it gets the star. The list includes things like elevators, breakfast room, at least one staff who speaks english, a/c etc.

In other words sometimes a good three star is better then a poor 4 star.

I don't believe these hotels are in Rick's guide. His guide didn't have many hotels located in the area where we want to stay (5th arr., near Seine & Notre Dame). I've done extensive research with "other" guide books (the shame!) and online review sites. I had tried his recommended Hotel des Grandes Ecoles, but they were already booked. My husband thought it might be too far out of the "thick of it," too. 2 of his recommendations on Ile St. Louis are available, Lutece & Jeu de Paume, but have seen mixed reviews for both.

We've stayed at Hotel des Grandes Ecoles and I agree w/your husband, it was too far for us and overpriced for what you get. Hotel Lutece and Hotel Deux Iles are very good as long as you don't get their cheapest rooms. We're staying at Lutece this summer and looking forward to it. We go to Paris every year/every other year and our favorite location is Ile St. Louis. I'd go for Hotel Lutece if I were you.