Hotel Crayon

"How did it strike you on arrival?Part of the extensive Elegancia Hotels collection of boutique hotels, this cheery three-star gives you a convenient base in the heart of the city (you can’t get more central than the 1st Arrondissement), plus plenty of homey comforts and uplifting style by interior designer Julie Gauthron. Guests are encouraged to feel right at home, so the staff, dubbed "hosts," set a friendly, laid-back tone. Outfitted with comfy, retro-inspired furnishings for a true living room feel, the yellow-hued lounge is the place to grab a coffee and make your daily plans. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Over breakfast at the kitchen table or drinks from the lobby honor bar, bond with other budget-savvy travelers who appreciate the hotel's attention to design, and relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Taking their cues from the oenophile owners, the 26 rooms (including two junior suites) have been designed as visual interpretations of the characteristics of wine—so you’ll find flowery notes in one, woody or spicy ones in another, and a range of patterns, textures, and colors to illicit heady sensations (including wallpaper emblazoned with peacocks, or cartoon figures.) Every piece furniture was hand-picked from a Parisian flea market, from the Louis XVI desk to the Louis Philippe mirror, resulting in a feel that’s warm and eclectic—just like a private home would be. Note that though it has a double bed, the Singulière room might be a bit tight for two. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?As befits a three-star, you get what you pay for: standard room facilities include a safe, flatscreen TV, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, but higher categories may have mini-bars, Nespresso machines, desks or dressing tables. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms give you the basics, including decent showers and bath products. Upgrade for bathrobes and slippers; one of the Junior Suites has a Jacuzzi. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is complimentary. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Framed by a bright red fridge and mosaic-patterned floor, the open-plan kitchen features wooden tables at which guest can enjoy selections from the cold breakfast spread (available for an additional fee.) There's also an honor bar for when you want to sip on something in the lobby lounge. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Feel at home in the heart of Paris, without breaking the bank." - Sandra Ramani