Hôtel Récamier

"How did it strike you on arrival?Under the supervision of a passionate owner, a run-down two-star hotel was in 2009 revived into this sophisticated Left Bank inn that evokes the apartment of a well-traveled art and history buff. Accented by the hotel’s signature scent, the interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot are contemporary and bright, warmed by reclaimed wood tables, metallic sculptures, and original artwork and unique objets sourced from around the world. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Guests gather in the lounge or on the terrace for breakfast before heading out to explore the chic surrounding Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, then trade stories of the day over drinks in the evening. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Spread out over the townhouse’s six floors, the 24 rooms run small, but have been enlivened by eclectic décor; think Art Deco meets tribal art, with lots of patterned fabrics, bold photographs, and shiny mirrors. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Higher category rooms have terraces and Nespresso machines, while all have flatscreen TVs, minibars and complimentary water. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The cozy bathrooms—most with showers only, a few with tubs—are outfitted with Egyptian cotton towels, bathrobes, slippers, and house-brand toiletries. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free Wi-Fi flows throughout the hotel. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.There's no full restaurant, but a charming afternoon tea is served daily, and drinks—and room service—are available until 10:45pm. In-room massages can be arranged, as can babysitting services. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Services are limited and rooms can be small, but a family-run vibe, attention to design, and prime location in the heart of the Left Bank make this a good value." - Sandra Ramani