We are traveling to Paris in mid september for seven nights and all the recomended hotels are booked. Would like to stay in 5,6, or 7 but not sure where to look for a good value. First time in paris. Would consider apartment rental but a little intimidated. Any help would be great.
For 7 nights my recommendation would be to rent an apartment. You have nothing to fear in renting an apartment. Hotels rooms are very small and an apartment will give you the capability to not eat all your meals out if you don't want to.
If you must stay in a hotel, we stayed once at the Hotel du Cadron, located in the 7th arr. next to Rue Cler. It is across the street from RS recommended Hotel du Champs de Mars. It was fine. Personally I did feel like it was out of the way of most the things typical tourist go to, except it was close to the Eiffel Tower. We rented an apartment in the 5th (Latin Quarter) and preferred that area. Our apartment included all the maps and guidebooks anyone could wish for, including Rick's. If you would like further information about the apartment we rented you can PM me for details.
Have a great trip to my favorite city!!
Try vacationinparis.com It's a US company that is easy to deal with, and you can pay by credit card. We will be using them for our vacation in late September. They have so far been a delight to deal with, and everything payment wise is outlined clearly.
Email them saying you are looking for apartments in the 5, 6 and 7th for your dates, and they will send you back a list of apartments that fit the bill. Also let them know how many people/beds you will need.
You're going to love Paris!
I also found my apartment on VRBO. Although many places will be booked already for mid-September, you may find owners more willing to give you a good deal just to make sure their place is rented. Don't be afraid to negotiate.