Debra J.
Yelp
I'm giving this hotel a four, for location, and room accommodation,but not a five, since the front desk personal wasn't always accommodating. It didn't help that taxi's and trains were on strike.
First, the historical aspect of this hotel is so very charming, that you can't help but feel you've jumped back in Parisian time--a simpler life. If you're comfortable with the Metro, this is your hotel. There is a stop just a few blocks away that will take you anywhere in Paris. There's also some wonderful restaurants in the neighborhood. We ordered the Pizza Girl (across the street) twice after our feet gave out! Also, on the corner is Cafe Brasserie, which was wonderful each time we ate there. We had a room on the 4th floor facing Rue de Vaugirard. The street was busy, but, once we closed windows, we heard nothing. We did hear planes taking off at night from Orly Airport, and it's very loud. However, it didn't affect our rest. Just be aware. They have a huge tub, and I was soaking every day on return and loved it. But the tub is VERY slippery and deep, difficult to get in and out off. Do take a small shower mat for safety. The hotel offers a light breakfast, of cheese, ham, various breads, croissants, juices, a very modern cappuccino machine that made wonderful coffee. Bed was comfortable, extra pillows and blankets in closet. Great maid service. Clean in rooms. Stairwells smell a bit moldy because of age, so if you have allergies, avoid these areas. They use perfume diffusers throughout the hotel which is problematic for asthmatics. Elevator/lift was fast but small (3 people). Charming sitting room,but needs dusting around floorboards. Wine, juice and peanuts offered around 6-6:30 PM, but only one bottle, of white and rose. How two bottles of wine in a country famous for wine constitute an entire hotel guest list, is a Parisian mystery. If you want wine in the evening, buy a bottle. It's not worth the hassle of going downstairs to empty bottles. Air conditioning works, and it was hot this year in mid June.
You don't need to know French in this hotel, but it would help if you try with greetings. Don't expect much extra help. There was a phone problem, and they never responded to requests for repair. They gave us another guest's room key. Very disturbing. They moved us to another room 10 mins after we unpacked our first day (and we were dog-arse tired and I was dealing with a hip injury). No offer to help with moving all our luggage again. They did send a bottle of champagne in apology. They had no solutions to train and cab strikes. Would answer a question once, but would turn away if you didn't understand. Other reviewers were happy with the front desk, so this might have just been our issue. It was a unique hotel but our next stay, we'll venture out to one that can offer more assistance when problems arise.