MOB HOTEL Paris les Puces

"Taking inspiration from Paris’s largest flea market, located about a 10-minute walk away, the eclectic Mob Hotel is awash in boho chic and bursting with creative energy. The experience starts at reception, which doubles as a shop stocking everything from snacks and stylish accessories to the odd guitar, and continues out to the backyard, where the restaurant’s terrace overlooks a garden that hosts al fresco movies in the summer, and turns into an ice skating rink in the winter." - Sandra Ramani, Lindsey Tramuta

"Saint Ouen Billed as Paris’s original lifestyle hotel—and the brainchild of entrepreneur Cyril Aouizerate, co-founder of the popular Mama Shelter group—there’s lots to appeal to younger guests at this quirky spot right by the city’s legendary flea market, Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen. In the charming courtyard garden, you’ll find ping-pong tables and plenty of space for kids to run around and blow off steam, while films are screened on the giant projector after dark. The design-led rooms are delightfully spacious and filled with curious knick-knacks, from Chinese shadow puppets to musical instruments. Every month there’s a different kids’ workshop on offer, where little ones can get crafty with cardboard and papier maché, and they go all out for events like Halloween, with face painting, games, and sweet hunts. What’s more, kids under six eat free in the restaurant, and there’s a daily gouter bio for children held in the lobby between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., where little ones are treated to an organic snack and a hot drink." - Luciana Bellini

"How did it strike you on arrival?Taking inspiration from Paris’s largest flea market, located about a 10-minute walk away, the eclectic Mob Hotel is awash in boho chic and bursting with creative energy. The experience starts at reception, which doubles as a shop stocking everything from snacks and stylish accessories to the odd guitar, and continues out to the backyard, where the restaurant’s terrace overlooks a garden that hosts al fresco movies in the summer, and turns into an ice skating rink in the winter. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Billed as a “movement,” the Mob concept is all about engagement, so you’ll find a steady stream of locals joining guests for regularly scheduled classes (from yoga to hip-hop), events, designer pop-ups, DJ sessions, and live music featuring buzzed-about emerging talent. The location in a northern suburb appeals to travelers who are happy to grab a Metro pass and become part of the community. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Rooms pack a lot of breezy, Nordic style into small spaces, accented by quirky touches like a display of Russian nesting dolls, or tasseled red velvet theater curtains framing the bed. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Some rooms have a small terrace with enough space for a couple of chairs and a gnome-shaped table, while others might have a couch, rocking chair, vinyl record player, or room to blow-up the complimentary air mattress. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms are a tight squeeze, but come with decent showers and full-sized organic bath products. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Hide away in the cozy library, or be social at the always-lively restaurant, which serves up organic, seasonal menus, shareable plates, and potent cocktails to hotel guests and local regulars. Bottom line: worth it, and why?As long as you're prepared for the suburban location, Mob grants you affordable style and access to a vibrant, welcoming community." - Sandra Ramani