Hôtel du Petit Moulin

"How did it strike you on arrival?Don't get confused by the vintage boulangerie signage: you're in the right place. Set in two connected 17th-century buildings—one the former home of one of Paris's first bakeries—the Hôtel du Petit Moulin feels like an insider's secret that's hiding in plain sight. The four-star charmer as been decked-out by fashion designer Christian Lacroix, so from the reception (located in the ersatz bakery) to the 17 rooms, the decor is bold, eclectic, and bursting with personality. Nice. What’s the crowd like?The hideaway appeals to Paris regulars who appreciate the whimsical style and the location in the bohemian Marais neighborhood, surrounded by galleries and trendy boutiques. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Each of the 17 rooms is different in size; the two entry-level Comfort rooms are a bit of a tight squeeze, but most are well-sized for Paris (and for being in a historic building.) The decor varies, too, with Lacroix giving each space its own personality. Find zebra print wallpaper or carpets covered with giant flowers here, a star-covered ceiling, billowing taffeta, or a fresco-ed wall there. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Deluxe linens and oversized pillows top the beds, which differ in style to suit the room. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Most of the bathrooms are on the small side, and feature either a tub or shower, and Codage bath products. They've received as much design attention as the rooms, though, so you may find a bucolic scene painted behind the bath, or an accent wall covered in patterned tiles. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wifi is complementary. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Breakfast is served in the vintage-style bistro, which transforms into a guests-only bar on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. An honor bar is available all week, as is a limited room service menu. Guests can borrow MacBooks and iPads from the reception, and have access to the complimentary bikes and the spa facilities at nearby sister hotel, Pavillon de la Reine. Bottom line: worth it, and why?With its Instagram-worthy decor, fashion world cred, and insider's feel, this tiny gem packs a memorable punch. It might not have all the trappings of a five-star hotel, but independent-minded travelers won't miss a thing." - Sandra Ramani