Hotels in Paris

Jennifer, Although I've seen some "mixed" reviews on it, I'd also suggest having a look at the Grand Hotel Leveque in the Rue Cler area. I've stayed there a couple of times, and while the rooms were somewhat "basic", I enjoyed my stays. However, I'd suggest trying to get something booked SOON as you may have trouble finding vacancies. You might also consider staying in a Hostel as that will likely be the most "inexpensive" option. I've always found that HI Hostels have had good facilities, are well run and are "safe". Happy travels!

Despite me seeing some people post some negatives recently I would not have a problem sending either of my daughters to Grand Hotel LeVeque in Rue Cler area. Try to get your hands on one of RSteves guidebooks, old or new, lots of suggestions.

I have a reservation at the Hotel Cluny Sorbonne ( not to be confused with Hotel Cluny). It is in the Latin Quarter and 98 euros for a double; I imagine a single is less. It gets good reviews from both Steve and Trip Advisor.

Paris can be a difficult place to get cheap last-minute hotel reservations (less than a month is "last minute" in Paris! Good deals get snatched up earlier). That said, almost everywhere in the center of Paris (the area surrounded by the ring road) is safe for a solo female traveler using common sense. The areas around train stations can seem a little seedy, but I don't think of them as dangerous, and there are cheap hotel options there usually. But if you can afford it, the Marais would be a great neighborhood for you to stay in. Anywhere close to a Metro stop to avoid walking long distances at night is probably a good idea too.

2 no frills spots that are clean and safe: Hotel Eden Montemare or Grand Des Arts Et Metiers 4 Rue Borda in the 3rd.

You can look at Eurocheapo's Paris listings for some good, inexpensive places. Unfortunately, others will have the same idea. As said above, get started on these reservations immediately.