Du Parc Saint Charles

Once you’ve booked, they won’t refund any money if you want to cancel. The hotel itself was extremely dirty, with mold on the windows, bathtub, and sink. There was a nasty, strange smell in the room that wouldn’t go away, even with the windows open every day. It has four floors and no elevator, and the narrow, dark stairs mean carrying heavy bags yourself. The bathroom window had no curtain either, so people in the opposite room could see you showering. This was the worst hotel I’ve ever stayed in.

I stayed here in 2009, on our very first trip to Paris, so this review is nine years late. It was a nice little affordable hotel near Balard station, and the area felt safe. I can’t remember much else.

The staff were great, and the hotel is in a strategic spot if you want to use the bus or metro. For a refreshing walk, though, the best thing is to cross the street and follow the old railway tracks, high up around Paris.

The rooms are small, and there’s no AC, but they’re clean. They clean the rooms daily and change the towels. The reception staff speak French and Arabic. The hotel is in Paris, not far from the Eiffel Tower and other important places.