The last few Paris breaks I’ve taken I’ve always stayed in the St Germain area, at least for part of the trip. I know my way around, it’s convenient and there’s always something to do nearby. The 6th is also the heartland of the Paris publishing industry and for me, the most colourful Left Bank quarter.  Waves of young artists still emerge from the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, later making merry in one of the many lively side streets. The secret of the St Germain des Pres area is to explore the narrow streets, hidden squares, and lovely gardens. Everywhere you turn, there are historic and literary associations but it’s also an area for modern cuisine, night spots and shopping. My favourite Paris bridge the Pont Neuf can be glimpsed down one of the streets coming off the five way intersection at le Buci and the magnificent but unfortunately empty building of La Samaritaine beckons from across the Seine.