hi cattle. Thanks for the advice re expenses. Fortunately I have been to Paris a bunch of times, and I have actually been to the castle at versaille. I was not planning on eating in the Trianon hotel... I travel a lot, but the only way I can do that is by keeping expenses low. I can't afford to pay the regular rates and therefore can't afford to eat there Hence my cheapo airfare (hopefully with an upgrade to bus class) and I saw those hotels in Paris offered for cash&points.

The time I went to the castle ( or whatever they called it) I was staying in an apt. in downtown Paris and took a day trip - it was quite lovely and a good option for you. I forgot that the starwood property I already booked was actually out in the subburbs, but the attraction besides a price of $60/night is what seems like a decent fitness center. That's about the only amenity I'll pay for, but my understanding is that SPG platinums are exempt from gym charges (at least they have been for me so far). Essentially I'm going to Paris for a 4-day "weekend" because I had a voucher that will expire, AA indicated they can upgrade me, and cash&points. IOW - virtually all of the major expenses are free for me.

The only think is, I have not yet paid for my air ticket, and I have to by end of tomorrow. This is why I am asking those "in the know" how painful it is to a) get to/from the CDG to the hotel without paying 80 euros for a taxi, and b) to get to/from downtown Paris. It's been many years since I've done that.

[This message has been edited by knobs5 (edited 10-11-2003).]

[This message has been edited by knobs5 (edited 10-11-2003).]