Hotels in Paris
Nov 12th, 1999, 03:58 AM
#2
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Hi Barb: We were at a 3 star in Paris last month in the 7th Arrondisement, Hotel Champes de Mars. Location wise can vary of course, we were near a pedestrian area with cafes,etc and within walking distance of the Eifel tower. The hotel itself was charming, friendly and clean. Rooms were on the small size with private WC and shower, hairdryer, cable TV with CNN. The hotel did not have a restaurant but did have a breakfast room. Most french hotels do not include breakfast in the price. They also did not have laundry service. The staff at the desk spoke English and was very helpful with directions, maps, etc. Although not having a formal concierge, they did not hesitate to help with reservations, including those in advance by email (we wanted to have dinner one night at Altitude 95, the lesser expensive restaurant in the Eifel tower). If you check the Franch Tourist Board website, I think they provide minimum standards for each of the star hotels.
Nov 12th, 1999, 12:22 PM
#3
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Barb--I think it depends on who is ranking the hotels. The michelin guides don't exactly give stars to hotels, but one with a "3" would be very nice. We took an American Airlines vacation and a 3 "eagle" hotel would not be bad at all. We stayed in a four "eagle" hotel and it was quite luxurious.
Nov 12th, 1999, 06:35 PM
#5
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Barb, <BR>We've always stayed in 3-star hotels in Paris and this is what we've found. <BR>Generally speaking a 3-star hotel will have smallish rooms (twin bedded or double bed) these rooms are quite a bit smaller than what you are probably used to in an motel in the U.S., private bath (usually with tub & handheld shower), clock, cable t.v., hair dryer (usually, but it's wise to check), and no restuarant. They usually have a breakfast area where continental or buffet breakfast is served. Usually it additional, very few places seem to include breakfast any more. The hotel will usually be small (20-45 rooms) and have an elevator, altho it is apt to be a small one. Usually staff will speak enough English to be helpful should you have inquiries. There will be no electricial outlet in the bathroom (it's a safety issue) except one for razors only - do not try and plug anything into it). If you want to take your own hair dryer or curling iron be sure to have an adapter/converter set and be prepared to plug it in someplace in the room and not really be able to see what you are doing when you use it. Outlets and mirrors are rarely near one another!!! It makes for great fun -- if you have a wash and wear hairdo you don't have to worry. Oh yes, expect the closet space to be minimal and if you are sharing a room there won't be much room for the luggage so pack light! If you have any other questions don't hesitate to ask. <BR>
Nov 12th, 1999, 08:30 PM
#7
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Lori's summary is right on target. Continental European hotels are quite different from those in the US in terms of size and amenities within the moderate rating categories. Smallish, typically clean, but not someplace you'll want to lounge around should you actually have any spare time. Three stars are functional.
