Hôtel Daval

The room was fine, and the front desk staff were friendly enough. It was one of the cheaper places, so maybe you get what you pay for. Being near the metro and Bastille was convenient, but we couldn't sleep because of the pub noise outside, even on the fourth floor. At 7 a.m. there was a drunken fight right outside our windows. I travel with my family sometimes, but I wouldn't bring them back to this area.

The front desk staff were kind and warm, which was a lovely welcome to Paris after a long trip. The Bastille location in the 11th is also great, with cafés, boutiques, bakeries, and nightlife all around. But for what we paid, the value felt low. Compared with the other places we looked at, this was mid-range, which really surprised me. The room looked clean, and the sheets were crisp, but a sewage smell in the bathroom spoiled it. It seemed like the pipes might be old or a drain flap was missing. The ventilation could be better, and the mold and mildew stains in the corners need a serious clean. It would be a tough room for anyone with sensitive lungs, asthma, or allergies. We opened the window again and again to air it out, but that didn't help. I like old buildings, and this one could have a lot of charm. The crooked staircase would be lovely if the old carpet were removed to show the original floor. The carpeted hallway outside the rooms also smelled damp and needs to come up. Come for the location and nearby nightlife, but probably skip it for a romantic stay, given the smell.

The neighborhood is lively and close to lots of Parisian spots, and the hotel is easy to find. This is a sweet, simple place with small but clean, fresh-smelling, well-equipped rooms. We had enough towels, though there wasn't much room to dry them, something I find common in hotels these days. The elevator is tiny, so it may not suit guests with oversized luggage or mobility limitations. You leave your key at reception when heading out for the day. I was perfectly happy with that, though I can imagine some people wouldn't be.

The room was nice and so were the staff, but the nightlife outside was horribly loud. I got no sleep during my three nights there. The location would probably suit you if you're really into partying.