Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden treasure? I did, and it came in the form of a charming little hotel in the heart of Paris’s chic Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood.
My Parisian adventure began with a blank canvas, a city unknown, an itinerary undefined. I delved into the depths of TripAdvisor and hotels.com, eager to uncover the city’s hidden gems. As I studied the map, Île de la Cité, the island where the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral resides, became the focal point.
Pinterest, my trusty travel companion, whispered secrets of The Marais, Montemarte, and Saint Germain des Prés, suggesting these as the most desirable areas to call home. Amidst the endless listings, a little hotel in Saint Germain caught my eye. Its “French” aesthetic, ideal location, and proximity to the metro resonated with my inner Parisian. I snatched it up before the price tag could climb any higher.
A Parisian Haven: Embracing the Beauty of a Tiny Hotel
This quaint hotel was a love letter to the past, a symphony of deep reds and rich fabrics. The lobby, with its Venetian Murano glass chandelier, shimmered with an ethereal glow. My room, #24 on the second floor, was an intimate haven, a cozy haven amidst the Parisian bustle. The dollhouse-sized elevator, just big enough for me and my luggage, added a touch of whimsy to the experience.
A Parisian Nest: Finding Comfort in a Compact Space
My room, a standard or classic double, was compact, yet perfectly suited for my solo adventure. The king-sized bed, two twin beds joined together, was the centerpiece. I quickly mastered the art of navigating the space between the mattresses, finding comfort in this unique Parisian retreat. The irregular shape of the room and the wooden beams on the ceiling whispered stories of its age, of lives lived within these walls.
A Parisian Delight: Enjoying a Simple Yet Delicious Breakfast
Each morning, the breakfast buffet, a modest €12 indulgence, awaited me in the charming parlor room. Hot coffee, tea, or chocolate, alongside a basket of fresh bread, set the stage for a delicious start to the day. The buffet, overflowing with scrambled eggs, sausage, meats, toast and jam, Nutella, cheeses, fruits, and cereals, satisfied every craving. The ambiance, with its beautiful place settings, created a sense of serenity.
I savored the simplicity of the breakfast, appreciating the opportunity to fuel myself for the day’s adventures.
A Parisian Paradise: Exploring the Neighborhood’s Treasures
My little hotel was nestled amidst a treasure trove of Parisian delights. Iconic cafes, Les Deux Magots and Cafe Flore, beckoned just steps away. Le Bonaparte, another charming café, resided on the corner. The ancient Église de Saint Germain des Prés, the oldest church in Paris, stood as a silent sentinel, just a stone’s throw from the hotel’s entrance.
Metro line #4, leading to countless Parisian adventures, was conveniently located at the base of the church. Line #10 Mabillon, just a short stroll away, offered another gateway to the city. Monoprix, a beloved Parisian supermarket, was across the Boulevard Saint Germain, a quick walk from my haven. And for all my skincare needs, City Pharma, a legendary French pharmacy, was just a block down Rue Bonaparte.
My Parisian experience would not have been complete without the serendipitous discovery of this hidden gem. This little hotel in Saint Germain des Prés became my home base, my sanctuary, my starting point for exploring the magic of Paris. And the best part? I discovered it by pure chance, before even understanding the city’s intricate tapestry. What a delightful surprise!
