First, let me say that I am very impressed by the quality of conversations and the intelligence of the community here. I'm honored to be part of your community and look forward to getting to know you more over time. <BR> <BR>My wife and I are planning a trip to France and have booked a hotel room at L'HÔTEL <BR>(13 rue des Beaux-Arts, Paris) in the St-Germain area. <BR> <BR>Other than a few comments here and in books that say L'Hotel is a wonderful small hotel in a great area (and that rock stars like Mick Jagger like to stay there), can anyone tell me more about this hotel and the area based on their own first-hand experience? <BR> <BR>Specifically, I am interested in: <BR> <BR>1) The rooms are described in some reviews as "snug". Do you think I spend more to get a larger room? I am somewhat price sensitive at this time. <BR> <BR>2) The room I reserved is facing the street. The other option was the courtyard for higher cost. The person at the hotel said the street is very quiet and felt it would be fine. Anyone think it is signifantly better to face the courtyard? <BR> <BR>3) Reviews of the hotel say every room is very different/unique. I don't know much about the specific room I have booked, is there anything you suggest in this regard before arriving to specify a certain room? Or is it a non-issue? <BR> <BR>4) Any other suggestions regarding this hotel? Or our plans for seeing the area? <BR> <BR>Greatly appreciate your advice and guidance. <BR> <BR>David

Can only pass on what other people who stayed there have siad about it: <BR>L'Hotel Guy Louis du Boucheron (4 star left bank) <BR>charming, quiet street <BR>didn't feel it's worth the price <BR>beautifully appointed, a bit small rooms <BR>very good service <BR>Some rooms are tiny <BR>room was very elegant and cozy <BR>loved it <BR>Our room was tiny, tiny, tiny <BR>not terrible. Just, well, a bit uncomfortable. <BR>delightful and helpful staff <BR>very clean <BR>For more Paris information e-mail me – [email protected]

David: Check out the hotel's site at: <BR> <BR>www.l-hotel.com <BR> <BR>I only know the hotel's small bar. Very nice and cozy. <BR>Sorry, cannot help you with the rooms. <BR>The street is very narrow and quiet, especially at night. <BR>But the area itself (St. Germain) is lively. <BR>I think the rooms are in general quiet. So, facing the street or the courtyard would mot probably be the same.

David <BR>I believe that the New York Times quite recently (past month?) ran an article on the refurbishing of l'Hotel and the new ownership. It sounded quite posh. Perhaps if you check the Times archives you can find out more details. <BR>Also check for comments from past hotel guests at www.paris.org

Have stayed at several nice hotels in the 6th, with my favorite being Le Regent. But nonetheless, my wife and I stayed at L'Hotel approx 4 years ago, prior to the renovations. I picked it because she wanted something a bit more luxurious than what I would normally have picked on my own. The room we got was perfectly fine, and the hotel bar was very good. The bartender enjoyed practicing his English, while I practiced my French! I would gladly stay there again, tho "snug" rooms don't bother me in Paris, since I attempt to spend as little time as possible in the room, and that is only a minor inconvenience. If you like the hotel, please post and let everyone know your thoughts......

Fred, Ursula. Elaine and Dave, <BR> <BR>Thank you for your advice. <BR> <BR>Will report back here after our trip. <BR> <BR>David <BR> <BR>

Just returned home from Harvard Sq. The out of town newstand is where I buy my French magazines. The current issue of ELLE DECOR has a beautiful layout of L'HOTEL..quite impressive.

I'm envious! My wife and I have stayed in St. Germain twice in the last year and we love it. Cafe de Flore and Cafe des deux Magots are neighborhood institutions. <BR>Zagat's has a wonderful Paris restaurant guide that is well worth the $9 cost. In that neighborhood we have enjoyed Rotisserie d'en Face and the Bistro Voltaire. <BR>If you like wine, I highly recommend the Taillevent win shop in the 8th Arr. On Saturday afternoon's they have free tastings.

David, I just typed in L'HOTEL and sure enough there is a site, so you can see a few rooms...mimi

Philip and Mimi, thank you for your continued advice, appreciate that. <BR><BR>Will report back after our trip.<BR><BR>David