43 of 46 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Clarifying a review, May 18, 2001
Of course, I'm going to give it five stars, I'm the author! But seriously, while I wouldn't usually respond to a negative review, there are some misunderstandings in Mr. Parton's review that must be addressed and corrected.
First, this guide is targeted to those unfamiliar with Paris, though listings were chosen to include things of interest to the seasoned Paris visitor, too. It was written and designed for people to look at on the go, a book that won't have you wading through information to get to the news you can use (page 3), which accounts for its basic coverage.
Secondly, Mr. Parton's comment that I'm prejudiced against hotels outside the first eight arrondissements concerns me. I've stayed all over Paris, particularly the 13th, and have had no problems. However, in the introduction to the hotels on page 65, I explained why I only mention the hotels in the first 8 arrondissements: "My first step was to consider the average traveler's wish list. And for most of you, that's location. Thus, the first criterion was simple: If the hotel isn't located in the first eight arrondissements, I don't recommend it in this book."
Third, Mr. Parton was concerned that the Carte Musee et Monuments isn't mentioned in the book. It's on page 31, listed as a bargain alert and a great deal.
Finally, the subway system is described in very good detail (from how to enter the system to a sidebar about where you can get a taxi after the Metro closes (pages 111-113).
I'm sorry Mr. Parton was disappointed. However, I believe this book fulfills its promise to present the reader with to-the-point information on Paris that's fun and easy to access (p.3).
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Keeping up the "Dummies" excellence....!, December 24, 2006
My wife and I (very unitiated to Paris) returned from a beautiful trip there last November -- a large part of that due to this book. Ms. Pientka really tries hard to let you get the well known and not so well known of the city and explains the pros/cons to areas so incredibly well. Other books might have more specifics about attractions, but they won't be as comrpehensive as this one. We loved her restaurant choices (even as Vegeterians she had some places for us!). The book was the basis for our trip and we felt we hit everything we wanted (included an out of the way flea market -- my wife loves going to them here and was excited to learn that one happens on the weekends in Paris). The only cons were that it would have been nice to have metro stops (and lines) listed next to each entry and her hotel list could have been more comprehensive. We booked a hotel on our own (not in her book) and loved it. Whether you are going to be in the City of Lights for a 2-3 days or a month, you will love this book.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
13 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
unexpected, July 2, 2002
We were surprised after lugging Frommer's, and Michelin books to Paris that 'Dummies' gave the best recommendations. Restaurants were out of the way places, few tourists, polite (as Parisians can be) service, and excellent food at reasonable prices.
The maps were adequate even for amateur mapreaders. Metro info was good. Open hours for all sites we visited was correct.
The tip to visit Notre Dame was a winner. We showed up at 8 AM to a deserted cathedral all to ourselves. We passed by there later at 11 and it was mayhem.
This being the better guide was indeed unexpected.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
