Le Général Hôtel
5–7 rue Rampon, 11e, Paris, 75011, France
Why We Like It
Perhaps the question should be what's not to like? With so much going for it—chic, service, comfort, amenities and price—not to mention a prime location in the heart of the action, we can't say much else but, go!
Architect and interior designer Jean-Philippe Nuel applied his famously sleek styling to Le Général, one of Paris's first low-budget, high-design hotels, meant to evoke a "large shared apartment." Set on a quiet street in a central area near all of Paris's hippest neighborhoods—and within minutes of public transport—this is a great spot for being where the action is.
The hotel website guarantees the lowest prices and breakfast is on the house for direct booking.The loaner mobile phone is a nice touch for non-Europeans.
room
Relaxing neutrals—cream, chocolate, and chestnut—prevail in small rooms—though suites are more spacious. Clever decorative touches include clear-plastic desk chairs, graffiti on the ceilings, white leatherette banquettes, and silver rubber duckies in the bath.
YOU SHOULD KNOW Though chic as can be, standard rooms are also tiny, and sizes don't increase significantly till the Jr suites category. If you need more space, think about upgrading.
bathroom
Baths are compact but bright, spotless, well laid out (most with walk-in showers) with luxury both products.
YOU SHOULD KNOW Bath products aren't always adequately replenished, but a simple request gets you more.
lobby
Daring splashes of color and graffitied touches decorate the walls in the common areas, well stocked with hip reading material and chic spaces for lounging or enjoying a drink.
spa
There is no spa, but you can book an in-room massage or treatment between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m.
gym
A small but well-equipped fitness center has conveniently long hours and a nice sauna for relaxing (whether you work out or not).
dining
The buffet continental breakfast has plenty of healthy and more indulgent choices. All fresh and good.
drinking
A full-service bar has plenty of choices and stylish spaces to enjoy your drink.
The hotel offers a complimentary glass of champagne on arrival.
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LOCATION
Getting Around
Location, location, location... here you've got all of Paris's trendiest neighborhoods covered: the haut Marais, Canal St Martin, Parmentier, and Oberkampf. Shopping, restaurants, bars (as well as a couple of Paris's best micro-breweries), nightlife, culture... you're in the thick of it all. Also, there are five metro lines converge at République.
Restaurants
The Canal St-Martin district is a hotbed of shopping and dining. Check out the rue des Vinaigriers for a nice choice of restaurants and on the rue de Lancry you'll find one of Paris's original and still beloved wine bars, Le Verre Volé. A favorite gastro bistro, Philou has outdoor dining a block from the canal. A stone's throw from the hotel, Iñaki Aizpitarte's famed Le Chateaubriand is constantly in the foodie limelight.