Sherry Y.
Yelp
For a location found near the chaotic Les Forums des Halles in the heart of Paris, Novotel does not disappoint in its truly professional service or its gorgeous architecture making efficient use of space. Upon visiting another Novotel in Normandy, it seems like many of the hotels in the chain have received similar updated furniture and amenities, including a glistening, modern bathroom. However, what really set this particular location apart were its two additional sleeper futon-esque couches found near the queen bed. Unlike your standard pull-out sofa, these futons contained decent mattresses with an ingenious sofa cover / mattress cover combo that could be untucked and turned inside out for dual function. The staff tucks the comforter and sheets underneath the cover when you first arrive, so its a welcome surprise to know that you have easy access to sleeping arrangements should you have several individuals in a room. Each futon is about the size of a standard twin. The mattresses both on the standard bed and the futons were beyond comfortable
Each room comes stocked with a safe, water boiler (with refreshments), hairdryer, and flatscreen TV. I suggest if you need to iron or steam your clothes to invest in a hand-held, portable steamer because, like many of the hotels in Paris, it was quite difficult to come across an iron or an ironing board.
Our view was just alright considering we faced a humid outside window facing the street and the opening to the breakfast buffet area, but considering we were out sightseeing most of the day, it wasn't too much of a problem.
The workout room is incredibly convenient. You can actually access it by card using a separate, special elevator explicitly for hotel guests separate from the standard elevators to guest rooms. Once entered, you have access to a huge screen with music options you can search and type in, a small bar for barre training with a mat underneath, treadmills, and ellipticals. If I'm not mistaken, there may have also been a row machine but don't quote me. Brilliant use of a small space with plenty of mirrors. Street-facing elliptical so if its a chore to exercise for you as it is me, you can always people watch at the nearby cafes.
Plenty to do outside, and you are quite literally steps away from the RER and metro station. Convenient, sleek, and modern. I would definitely stay here again.