Paris is filled with lavish hotels - former palaces that have been converted into dens of discreet luxury. These are places that recall an earlier empire, or, depending on your cultural preferences, the last episode of Sex and the City. These are not places we can afford.
For those who still want old-world glamour, there are plenty of frumpy and over-decorated rooms for around 200€ a night. But rather than pay for over-priced knock-offs, smart visitors are eschewing tradition and going instead for something modern. A number of sleek and enlightened hotels have cropped up recently that are much better suited to our 21st century needs. Hôtel Amour, which Louise told you about earlier, is one of these. Another has emerged on the city’s trendy east side.
Photo by Supermaikhanh
I first learned about Le General when a visiting friend invited me to come to her hotel and get a drink at the bar. “A hotel bar? Why don’t we just go out instead?” I protested. She told me to trust her, and I wasn’t disappointed. Just a few paces from Republique, Le General is indeed branché (trendy) – all dressed up in chocolate, fuchsia and white. The bar was swank and I soon learned about the hotel’s other amenities - free wifi in every room, a 24-hour business center, and a fitness center with sauna. But most interesting (and unusual) was 'all-inclusive package.' A standard double room costs a modest (by Paris standards) 175€. But spend a little more - 235€ - and the all-inclusive rate gives access to a massive breakfast spread, a bathrobe, and (drumroll please) an open bar.
I suddenly understood why we were drinking at the hotel – my friend could down as many mojitos as she liked and her employer, who was paying, would never know. Is this not a business travelers dream? I was able in the end to drag her out and into the nearby Oberkampf area. The drinks weren’t free, but the streets were filled with bars and good restaurants. She had an easy stumble home after enjoying one of the most city’s most lively neighborhoods.
Since that night, when anyone young (with a compulsion for cocktails and internet access) asks for a hotel recommendation, I tell them about Le General. Especially if someone else is paying.
Le General, 5/7 rue Rampon, 11. arr. Metro: Republique
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