France 2010

Best and worst accommodations:

Best: Hotel Le Vinci Best Western
Why: We was only charged 60 Euro and the room provide the best value for the money. The Room was clean and comfortable with view over the vast country.

Worst: Hotel Calendal, Arles
Why: The room was small with a very tiny bathroom. The hallway is filled with oddor from the restaurant. The room rate is overcharging although not quite a ripoff.

Genhone in Toronto, ON Canada 03/07/2010

Best: Hotel d' Ailbert near Carcassonne
Why: I can't say enough about how wonderful Fredo and his Hotel d' Ailbert are. This would've been our favorite accommodation even if it had not followed on the heels of the worst accommodation. We called Fredo at the last minute and were extremely fortunate to find he had a delightful room for us in his 500 year old hotel. Hotel d' Ailbert is about 30 minutes outside of Carcassonne, but we would have gladly traveled twice as far for such a delightful experience. Fredo couldn't have been more accommodating. Our windows overlooked the glorious courtyard with Roman arches where we were served a fabulous dinner. We spent the next day in Carcassonne, a town well worth seeing with its wonderfully restored buildings. But as interesting as Carcassonne was, we couldn't wait to get back to Hotel Ailbert. We have traveled extensively in France and Italy and Hotel d' Ailbert, along with Residence Versailles In Beynac, was our all-time favorite. Fredo is a charming host, serving wonderful meals along with songs and smiles and Hotel d' Ailbert absolutely delightful.

Worst: convent hotel in Carcassonne
Why: We had reserved a room in the (former?) Convent recommended for Carcassonne in Rick Steve's book. We arrive to find the room dingy, dreary, depressing and none too clean. The beds felt very uncomfortable. The showers (down the hall) weren't much better. They were kind enough to refund our money but it was getting late and we still had to find accommodations. We checked at another hotel about 3 blocks away. It was better but not great. We checked a third hotel. Again, better but not great. Thankfully, we had the guidebook and our cell phones with us. We called Hotel d' Ailbert (see "best" above)

Kay Spena in Berkeley, Ca USA 02/07/2010

Best: Le Moulin du Fief Gentil in Blere, near Amboise
Why: Charming building, beautiful grounds with the pond and sycamore trees for shade, great dinner cooked and served by Florence. Also great recommendations were Le Vieilles Digues near Mont St Michel and LA COUR SAINTE CATHERINE in Honfleur.

Craig Steinfeld in Morrison, CO USA 01/31/2010

Best: Hotel Beaugency Paris-Rue de Cler
Why: This was a very clean (for the most part-read "the worst")hotel, small-30 rooms, quiet, attractive, convenient hotel. The rooms and lobby were very modern and updated with nice tile bathrooms with porcelin tubs. Nice heavy windows that opened out for fresh air. All of the desk clerks spoke some English and were very helpful with anything that we would need, including directions, suggestions, etc. The continental breakfast is not included and is 12 euros. There is a WONDERFUL pastry shop just 100yds from the hotel and several small grocery stores also within a block from the hotel so I only ate the hotel breakfast once when I was in a hurry to leave. There is a computer with free internet in the lobby or you can buy a day/week of wi-fi for 5euros. Very small elevator to take your bag upstairs so you don't have to haul it upstairs yourself. Very conveniently located to the metro and to MANY restaurants, cafes, boutiques...nearly perfect but see below.

Worst: Hotel Beaugency
Why: I hesitate to write this but I think the public should know. The first night that my daughter and I were here I woke up in the morning with a bed bug in my bed and one in my pajamas and many small red dots on the bottom sheet near where the upper part of my body was lying. When I grabbed the bedbug on the sheet to get if off, it exploded with blood. It was about the size of an apple seed. The one on my arm inside my pajamas was the size of a tick but flat. I didn't have ANY experience with bedbugs and the hotel was so clean that I thought perhaps they were bugs that had just flown in from the window and I thought bedbugs were very small, like fleas, but my daughter insisted I report this to the front desk and so I did. They immediately moved us to another room and we were not bothered with bedbugs anymore. We also were with other people in 3 other rooms who never saw a bedbug. I still was doubtful that we had the "bedbugs" until I got home and looked them up on the internet. Sure enough what we had were definetly bedbugs. I'm not sure how to avoid them because I hear that there are many hotels throughout the world that have them now and they are very hard to get rid of. Just wanted to let you know. Be sure and check the mattress before you empty your suitcase and go to bed. I didn't see anymore but I'm sure there were more in the room.

Margaret in Cartersville, GA USA 01/30/2010

Worst: Vaisson La Romaine
Why: None of them were open or answering their phones in October. We did not try the last one in the book. Since we were driving in from Liguria and it was raining and getting dark. We diverted to St. Remy.

Ed & Rita Reed in Port Aransas, TX USA 01/19/2010

Best: Hotel Saint-Martin in Colmar
Why: Nice hotel, great location.

Ed & Rita Reed in Port Aransas, TX USA 01/19/2010

Worst: Grand Hotel Leveque
Why: Simply awful! The "GHL" is an extremely low-budget dive hotel. Yes, it's in a great location and the staff is friendly, but this isn't how I choose a hotel. I actually care about the look and feel of my room; is it clean? is it esthetically pleasing to the eye? is it comfortable? do I want to relax in my room? The answer is "no" to all of my criteria. The GHL is more of a hostel/flop-house than a hotel. After travelling for over 20 hours to get to Paris, imagine my shock when entering my "superior" room. I had no problem with a small room, I do however have a problem with a room, that I paid extra for it being "superior" looking like it was fashioned after a cell at San Quentin. The bed was shoved against the wall (a long black hair was found as I turned down the sheets), a small desk, and a coat rack (which was to be used as my closet, where was I to store my clothes?). White, barren walls to stare at and I was told my room had a view of the courtyard; not a courtyard, but in fact an alley, with a view of the building next door. Not even a poster print (even Motel 6 has better decor!). With all of the great places to pick up bites and nibbles, you can't even bring anything back, nor store it for that matter. Another gross thing, besides the hair in my bed (not mine) was the TV remote had dried-up goop on it (never touched it). Based on this experience, and reading the positive posts from Rick Steve's readers, I've come to the conclusion that the RS crowd just wants a place that's cheap where they just sleep and shower. Not my style at all. I would rather spend a little more money and enjoy my stay than feel like an inmate (and yes, they served stale croissants and coffee for 13 euros, and canned fruit cocktail!)No, not my style at all.

Autumn in San Francisco, CA USA 01/03/2010

Best: Les Vieilles Diques
Why: I have never met such a friendly B&B owner, nor stayed in a more divine place. It was like a movie set, so beautiful, with a great breakfast and minutes away from Mont St. Michel.

Catherine in Edmonds, WA USA 12/15/2009

Best: We stayed at the B&B recommended in Montfort called La Barde.
Why: It was in a small town with a scenic castle on the hill. The owners of the B&B were transplants from London, so English speaking. Very helpful with restaurants and locations of chateas and castles.

Peg Donahue in Palatine, IL USA 12/06/2009

Best: Rue Cler
Why: Not a specific restaurant, but it's a great place to get lunch during market hours. There's a charcuterie in the middle of the street that operates an outdoor stand during lunch hour that has traditional French dishes (veal in cream sause, beef bourguignon, frites, etc.) at bargain (for Paris) prices.

Dave in Philadelphia, PA USA 12/01/2009

Best: Grand Hotel Leveque
Why: Very helpful staff (Christophe and Francoise) and fabulous location on rue Cler.

Marianne Kurtz in Union, KY USA 11/11/2009

Best: Hotel Montaigne, Sarlat
Why: Spotless hotel. Well maintained by Jean Martinat and his wife. Great location. Reasonable rates. The owners are the best part. They know the area and are very generous with their time and help.

George FL USA 11/02/2009

Best: Hotel La Roseraie in Chenonceaux
Why: The whole experience was the best. Meet many Steves followers at the hotel. Thanks

Richard Perkins in Pleasant Hill, CA USA 10/29/2009

Best: La Ferme Du Pressoir
Why: Mme. Delalande was the most wonderful hostess one could imagine. The rooms and bed were incredibly generous and comfortable. Plenty of hot water, welcoming cider, chocolate, fruit. The breakfasts made with eggs that we picked were delicious. Perfectly located for day runs to all of the beaches, knowing that you have a great place to stay at night. I can't imagine missing this experience.

Mike in Rainone, Tx USA 10/29/2009

Worst: Hotel le Chanticleer
Why: No one on the staff (of two people) spoke English. We reported a leaking radiator soaking our rug, and also a ragged blanket on our bed and they did nothing about it. Without a car, it was a 15 minute walk to the center of town.

Jim & Arlene Knutson in Bloomington, MN USA 10/26/2009

Best: please read the following:
Why: Rick Steves

During our trip to France last month my husband and I stayed at two of your recommended chambres d'hotes: Le Petit Versailles in Beynac ( two nights) and Le Mas du Petit Grava) near Arles (six nights). Both were wonderful and we were made to feel welcome by the warm and caring hosts of each establishment. We will especially remember Jim and Ike at Le Mas du Petit Grava and their attention to detail, the wonderful foods from their garden, and their genuine caring for our comfort and enjoyment. They are two really terrific guys!

But I must encourage you to visit another wonderful chambre d'hote that we discovered in the Dordogne region near Sarlat. This place is a true gem! It is called "La Roche d'Esteil" (www.larochedesteil.com) and it is an exceptional location. This is a lovely, 18th Century farmhouse that the young owners, Marc and Sandrine Audouard, meticulously restored with their own hands over a three year period. They showed us a photo album of their progress. Their attention to detail and quality is amazing.

But they, themselves, are also what make a visit here memorable. They are both wonderful hosts. We were the only Americans who were there during our three night stay and both Marc and Sandrine went out of their way to converse with us and make sure we were enjoying our visit. Marc's English is very good but it was fun practicing our French with him. The first night we were there, Marc and Sandrine prepared a fabulous four-course meal in their tiny kitchen for ten guests. I was amazed at how effortlessly they were able to serve us all in a timely fashion.

We would definitely recommend La Roche d'Esteil to your readers. Marc added extra insulation between the walls and floors when he rebuilt the barn for his guests; so the rooms were especially quiet. We are tall people and we were happy to sleep in the very comfortable king-sized beds that seem so difficult to find in Europe. Our bathroom was modern, beautifully tiled by Marc, with a walk-in shower, plenty of counter space at the sink, and good lighting and ventilation.

But as you well know, it is not only lovely surroundings that make for a fabulous accommodation but it is the people who greet you and make you feel at home that are the most important. That is why we seek out the chambres d'hotes in France and that is why we will always remember our visit to La Roche d'Esteil and Marc and Sandrine.

Additional contact information:

Email: contact@larochedesteil.com

Tel: +3 (0) 5 53 29 14 42 / +33 (0) 6 87 72 19 80

Diana Campbell in Allentown, PA USA 10/26/2009

Best: La Ferme du Pressoir
Why: We rented their beautiful gite for 4 nights for 3 couples, which has 3 spacious bedrooms ensuite, a kitchenette, living/dining room and a washing machine (no dryer). It is located directly south of Bayeux, and is an easy drive to the D-Day beaches. The gite is a stone building situated by itself away from the main house. It was immaculate with modern conveniences and different themed bedrooms, which were all beautiful. The gite is located in the french countryside set on a lovely working farm complete with cows, goats, chickens and horses as well as apple and pear orchards. We went for walks down the country roads, and the scenery was picture perfect. We cooked four breakfasts and dinners in our gite while we enjoyed our peaceful surroundings and gorgeous pastoral views. The owner, Odile, speaks no English, but she has a sparkling personality, which transcends language barriers. She is ever-so-kind, and will take you on a tour of her farm, give you fruit from her orchards, and suggest sites to visit. If you have a car and want to totally immerse yourself in the Normandy countryside in a peaceful and rural setting, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, and stay here. You will not want to leave.

Cindy in West Sacramento, CA USA 10/25/2009

Best: Ferme du Clos Neuf, Ryes, FR
Why: The room was wonderful, the breakfast delightful. Mrs. Sabile is a wonderful host who supplied all our needs in a most gracious manner. A great Rick Steves suggestion.

Larry Neal in Warren, PA USA 10/21/2009

Best: Vent des Greves, Mont St Michel
Why: The view from the rooms at night is amazing. Very nice, clean, large rooms. Also liked Le Pappagall in Arromanche, very hard working Rosa was great and accommodating.

Worst: Hotel le Home
Why: Had a room in the outer building which was musty, dank and noisy. Any footsteps, noise or bathroom sounds in any of the other rooms were CLEARLY heard. Not only dark as suggested. This was in August so can't imagine it during the cold weather.

Debra in Delta, BC Canada 10/20/2009

Best: Hotel la Belle Meuniere in Nice
Why: very nice, helpful staff; good breakfasts, very laid back. Like a good old shoe.

John Vogt in Ft. Collins, CO USA 10/19/2009

Best: Hotel La Bourdonnaise
Why: Clean, cute and great location! Helpful staff.

Sherri Campbell in Katy, Tx USA 10/18/2009

Best: Hotel des Celestins in Lyon
Why: A very charming hotel in a great location, our room had recently been renovated, and everything was bright and new. Oriana took good care of us, and we enjoyed meeting the owner, Laurent.

Worst: Expensive breakfasts at hotels
Why: In northeast France the hotel breakfasts were extra, ranging from 8-12 Euro for a simple continental breakfast. We thought we could do better at some neighborhood patisseries or boulangeries, but found almost none with coffee and seating areas.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 10/14/2009

Best: La Jacotiere near Mont St. Michel
Why: Claudine is wonderful--wish she was my neighbor. The location is beautiful. The rooms are roomy and very reasonably priced.

Susan Gibb in Santa Ana, CA USA 10/09/2009

Best: Hotel de Selves, Sarlat
Why: Great location, very professional staff, very clean and quiet. Great breakfast.

Worst: Auberge des Platanes
Why: If you can't get into La Belle Etoile, move on to Beynac or Sarlat. The proprietor and the staff basically ignored us, despite the fact we were there for 3 nights. Most other hotels and B and B's were most appreciative of our visits. the Auberge could have cared less- made no effort at all to ensure our stay was pleasant or even to communicate with us.

Martha in Calgary, Canada 10/03/2009

Best: Chez Leslie, Colmar, France
Why: What a treat! Leslie is fantastic and we greatly enjoyed our stay. Our room was very large, clean as can be and overlooked the courtyard. Our breakfast was excellent each morning and Leslie was very helpful in directing us to places like Freiburg, The Wine Road and the Old Town. Free parking. We enjoyed the courtyard at night and our discussions with Leslie.

Al & Mary Hermansen in Delano, MN USA 09/28/2009

Best: Maison Martin Jund, Colmar
Why: The atmosphere was wonderful with grapevines covering the walls and stairs. Having your own terrace to relax and enjoy wine from their vineyard, cheese and a baguette made for a relaxing and enjoyable time.

Worst: None
Why: All of the recommended accommodations (we stayed at 6 different ones) were clean, well-located and a good value.

Vickie Sprowls in Lake Nebagamon, WI USA 09/22/2009

Best: The hotel Relais Bosquet in Paris
Why: It's clean, staff are friendly, breakfast is good (especially if you get it free by recommending Rick's book), and it is close to everything --- #69 bus, walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, and metro. Yet its just far enough from the other hotels that you don't feel overwhelmed with noise or touristy trappings.

Mimi Simon in Edmonton, AB Canada 09/18/2009

Best: Le Mas Normand
Why: Mylene and Christian are wonderful hosts. The breakfast was certainly one of the highlights of our trip. We arrived at Le Mas Normand immediately after our arrival in France, very jet-lagged, and Mylene took care to make us very comfortable, and gave us great advice on the local sights. The setting is very peaceful. Our only wish is that we had stayed a day or two longer.

Paul in White Bear Lake, MN USA 09/08/2009

Best:
Why: We only stayed at the Hotel Beaugency. The hotel was convenient, rooms were clean and the staff very helpful.

Jim Colgan in Bixby, OK USA 08/15/2009

Best: Hotel Le Petit Trianon--St. Jean-de-Luz
Why: Hotel Le Petit Trianon had a great location, wonderful air-conditioning, a great shower, and continuously-working Wifi. I also enjoyed the Toulemon rooms in Sarlat.

Worst: Notre Dame de l'Abbaye--Carcassonne
Why: This really isn't bad, just know what you're in for; you get what you pay for. The room was *very* basic and hot. The check-in is mostly in French. Breakfast is very sparse (and wasn't included in my rate). Check to see if a towel is included before leaving check-in. (It wasn't included with my room.) One of the beds in my room broke, and the bottom of the shower I used completely filled with water and wouldn't drain.

Kyla Gurganus in Ypsilanti, MI USA 08/11/2009

Best: Chez Leslie in Colmar
Why: Leslie was wonderful (she even drove us to the Hertz car rental place and helped translate for us) the house was very comfortable and the breakfast was yummy and large. Colmar was a fantastic 2-day stop.

Randy in Mineapolis, MN USA 07/29/2009

Best: Taxi from CDG.
Why: Drivers are excellent, prices are fair and it is a lot of fun.

Jennifer Stanley in Tracy, CA USA 07/09/2009

Best: Hotel Churchill in Bayeux
Why: all around delightful, helpful staff, great hotel shop, wonderful breakfast, fabulous hotel-sponsored trip to Mt. St. Michel, use of their computers to send home messages ...

Nikki Rajala in Rockville, MN USA 06/23/2009

Best: Le Mas du Loriot
Why: Gracious, just what we expected, helpful.

Linda Beilstein in Corvallis, OR USA 06/22/2009

Best: Les Jardins de Loïs, Beanue
Why: Philip and Mary Ann were wonderful hosts. Their B &B was first class all the way. It was a delightful experience.

Worst: Hotel de Blauvac, Avignon
Why: This hotel should be removed from your book! It was dark, dreary, old and unairconditioned! We even checked their web-site before we booked and they talked about their "recently" renovated rooms. The room they put us in had not been touched since the Popes lived in Avignon! We did not stay and moved to another hotel.

Fred Morelli in Pittsburgh, Pa USA 06/15/2009

Best: La Roserie, Chenonceaux
Why: A wonderful, charming hotel in bucolic Chenonceaux, a short walk from the chateau entrance. It was everything we had hoped for and more -- large, beautifully appointed room, modern and large bathroom, excellent restaurant and terrific hosts Laurent and Sophie. Our only regret was that we had to leave after three nights!

Honorable mention: both Hotel St. Martin in Colmar and Hotel Relais Bosquet in Paris, both excellent recommendations. Thanks Rick!

Steven Hauser in Atlanta, GA USA 06/13/2009

Best: Auberge des Planates-La Roque-Gageac
Why: The hotel is across the street from the river. Our tour book called the service impersonal, but I must strongly disagree. Wake up calls were delivered by a hotel employee knocking on your door. We were constantly asked if we needed anything whenever we sat down. The staff provided tons of knowledge on Dordogne. We thoroughly enjoyed Lionel, one of the workers. They all made over Paul (our 21 year old son), bringing Paul his own breakfast that his parents were not allowed to touch. I did not find any of the staff impersonal, perhaps just English challenged, but you know, we were in France.

Worst: Hotel les Cretes Blances-Chamonix
Why: The staff in this hotel spoke beautiful English, but were quite unhelpful. For 110 euros a night, we couldn't get a wake up call. They were completely unhelpful as to how to work their system (it didn't) or suggesting other solutions

Jody Distad in Denver, CO USA 06/07/2009

Best: Hotel La Fete en Provence of Vaison la Romaine
Why: Most comfortable accomodations and friendly staff. Best sleep we had in Provence and enchanted rooms.

Sbloom in Dallas, TX USA 06/02/2009

Best: Andre and Madelines Sebire's B&B
Why: Fantastic Norman farm, great room, exceptional breakfast, and unbelievably low oost.

Paul Beck in Cupertino, Ca USA 06/01/2009

Best: Hotel la villa Fleurie, Beaune
Why: Great hostess and wonderful room that was quiet and comfortable. Good breakfast and Madame was very helpful. Easy walk to downtown.

Tom in Olympia, Wa USA 05/12/2009

Best: Le Manoir de Rigourdaine
Why: Le Manoir de Rigourdaine in Plouer-sur- Rance was the most delightful place! The van Valenberg's were warm hosts and the location was not only a perfect home base for exoloring Brittany but the hotel itself is charming with spectacular views of the Rance and surrounding countryside. Off the beaten path, it is very quiet. The room was one of the most spacious rooms we have ever stayed in.

Kathy Wilson in Indialantic, FL USA 05/08/2009

Best: Hotel Relais Bosquet in Paris
Why: Very friendly and professional staff, great value for the money, extremely clean, free breakfast was terrific!

Sue Cromwell in Chester Springs, PA USA 05/04/2009

Best: All were good. In Paris, stayed at Hotel Perle, in Avignon, at B and B in your book
Why: Hotel Perle, great location, great staff to help with transportation..always helpful...breakfast (included) was best we had anywhere this trip. B and B (townhouse in Avignon) there for 4 nights, great location, good value, even though it was more than we usually pay...terrific hostess.

Meg in Chicago, IL USA 04/27/2009

Best: La Grange B& B, Amboise, Loire, France
Why: Yveline and her husband are delightful people, willing to help and full of suggestions. Rooms are ample, clean and comfortable. Breakfast is outstanding and relaxing in the garden a delight.

Worst: Dinard, Brittany, France
Why: Nothing special in the town. Not very colorful and shopping limited. However, ferry trip across the bay to St. Malo was worth it. Exploring the town by walking the ramparts as you suggest was a good way to start.

Gerald Plummer in Concord, CA USA 03/05/2009

Best: Hotel de la Paix
Why: Very friendly, good accomodations. They now have private parking. We have stayed with them several times.

Amy in Houston, TX USA 03/04/2009

Worst: Hotel des Recollets - Sarlat - France
Why: After 15 years of international travel this was the most dreaful hotel I have ever had the misfortune to stay in (developing countries and back packers dorms included). We booked the hotel for two nights on the recommendation of the tourist board located near the market square.

We were given the 'last' twin room available. The room was located off the courtyard (room 36 if I 'recollet' correctly). The room was small and felt / smelt of damp as soon as we walked in - it needed a serious airing. The room had a small frosted glass window which provided no ventilation or privacy. The bathroom and the sky light above the beds were covered in black mould. It was disgusting. As it was so late in the day we felt we would make do for that night. God help us.

It rained heavily that night so we had to close the window and sky light and spent the entire evening breathing in the musty damp air. We were kept awake till 2am by a cat howling in the rainy courtyard. I ended up letting the cat into to the foyer of the hotel so it would get out of rain and shut up.

Next morning I straight away noticed red bites on my fingers, face and arms. 22 bites in total. Having caught these several years ago while backpacking, I knew they were bed bugs. I went to reception and told them politely that we needed to change rooms and they had bed bugs. I showed them my bug bitten fingers and the welts developing on my face. The man on reception shrugged and said the hotel was full. Merci mate.

I went and complained to to the tourist board who were (to their credit) incredibly good about it and asked me to put it down in writing. We then moved to the much more pleasant ,but twice as expensive Madeleine Hotel up the road.

Sarlat is a beautiful town and this was the only depressing point of a lovely stay in France

intrepid in sydney, Australia 01/23/2009

Best: Hotel la Roseraie in Chenonceaux.
Why: Because of the beautiful rooms and grounds, and the excellent caring attention of Laurent and Sophie. They are the BEST!

Worst: Hotel Muguet, sorry to say.
Why: My husband and I did not fit the room we were given. The room was tiny, to say the least, and the shower was almost impossible to get into.

Zoe Maurer in Southampton, NJ USA 01/01/2009

Best: Hotel d'Argouges (Bayeux)
Why: The madame owner was a fantastic host (monsieur was out of town), very welcoming and gracious. The hotel common areas were beautiful and our room was very comfortable. It was also a very convenient jumping off point for our Norman sightseeing. We will certainly stay there again in the future.

Dave Matsumoto in Tacoma, WA USA 12/17/2008

Best: Chateau de Vaulx... South western Burgundy
Why: This was a wonderful accomodation south of Charolles on the westen side of the A6- found it on the internet. Great chateau that 4 people are restoring. Wonderful accomodation and dinners- If you have a car and are roaming around France, you must stop.The view, the rooms, the food, the wine, marvelous!!!

Jane in Lebanon , OH USA 11/15/2008

Best: Hotel Churchill in Bayeaux
Why: The very-well-located hotel (with parking lot) was recently remodeled, and we were thrilled to receive a free upgrade to a deluxe room, as there was availability. The staff was welcoming and helpful, the 9-euro breakfast was a good value (for France), and the room was beautifully decorated and comfortable. My friend and I really enjoyed all the WWII photos and articles adorning the hallways. There is also a classy gift shop (more of a home decor shop) on one side of the hotel. I mentioned to the woman at the front desk that I learned of the hotel from Rick Steve's guide book, and she said that while several guidebooks list her hotel, Rick Steves is the only one who comes back year after year to make sure the quality is still good. She really likes Rick!

Robynn in Paris, / France 11/14/2008

Best: Chambres Residence Versailles in Beynac
Why: The Fleurys have beautiful, spacious rooms and a fabulous view of the area. Breakfast is fantastic (and they have a laundry service)

Pam Boyd in Bedford, TX USA 11/08/2008

Best: Chambres Residence Versailles in Beynac
Why: This bed and breakfast was one of our favorite places on our trip. The Fleurys are wonderful hosts and serve a great English breakfast. We ate dinner there one evening, and it was fabulous too.

Judy in Alexandria, MN USA 10/21/2008

Best: Isabelle Raby (near Beaune in Orches)
Why: She is an amazing hostess and a wonderful person. We enjoyed many conversations with her and were happy to be able to stay in her home.

Luba Marmorstein in Van Nuys , CA USA 10/05/2008

Best:
Why: Have never had a bad experience using you books. Netherlands, Germany France Spain.

T Jarrett in Kelowna, BC Canada 10/02/2008

Best: Hotel du Chateau, Beynac
Why: Accomodations were good but Christoph and his staff made this hotel an excellent choice. And the bonus was the fine restaurant attached to the hotel (at half-board prices).

M. A. Calcaterra in St. Louis, MO USA 09/27/2008

Best: La Grange, Amboise France
Why: We share your views regarding Ms. Savin and the entire experience at La Grange. Amboise is a delightful city and the La Grange is a charming spot. As you say the host is adorable.

Gerald Plummer in Concord, CA USA 09/26/2008

Best: Hotel Splendid
Why: They were so kind and accomodating to me when I arrived in Avignon and discovered that the hotel I had reserved was shut down.

Worst: Hotel du Parc
Why: I had reserved and confirmed this hotel for Avignon, and when I arrived it was closed down. They did not bother to contact me so I could make other arrangements ahead of time.

Robyn Oxley in Webster, TX USA 09/21/2008

Best: Hotel Alpes
Why: We stayed at Hotel Alpes in Annecy and enjoyed it.

Bob M. in Minneapolis, MN USA 09/14/2008

Best: Le Grand Leveque, Rue Cler, Paris
Why: good value, great neighborhood

Kimberly French in Middleborough, MA USA 09/02/2008

Best: Hotel Cluny Sorbonne
Why: VERY clean, quiet street, friendly and helpful staff, and fabulous location! So many interesting museums, monuments, and districts were within walking distance. We had 4 fabulous days of walking to most of the sights listed in your whirlwind Paris tour.

Ildi Varga in Vancouver, BC Canada 08/25/2008

Best: Hotel Castex
Why: Reasonable price. Great location. Considerate staff. Small room, but not too small. Nice desk. The free wireless worked without a hitch. Everything in the room was organized conveniently. It was clean. The bed was comfortable. Everything worked. The Hotel Castex had everything I needed. Nothing less, nothing more. It was just great.

Barbara Robertson in San Francisco, CA USA 08/19/2008

Best: Hotel Regence in Arles
Why: Very friendly staff, very clean, nice breakfast room, walking distance to train station...2nd time we've stayed there

C. Sprague in Lawrenceburg, IN USA 08/18/2008

Best: The Hotel Relais Bosquet in Paris
Why: The Hotel Relais Bosquet just off the Rue Cler was like coming home at the end of the day. The staff was most helpful and friendly. The room was comfortable. We even had a view of the Eifel Tower. Our reservation was exactly as promised.

Thomas Strayhorn in Snyder, TX USA 08/14/2008

Best: Grand Hotel Leveque
Why: It's location of Rue Cler puts the traveler right into the flavor of Paris just by stepping out of the hotel and onto the street. Walking distance to most of the major Paris sights.

Ray and Arlene in New Westminster, BC Canada 08/10/2008

Best: Apartment, that's what we stayed in.
Why: We had a full kitchen and cooked at home often. We were in Paris for 2+ weeks.

C. Haller in Longwood, FL USA 08/08/2008

Best: New Hotel La Baume
Why: Only one from the book we used this time. First room was soggy thanks to a failed AC. Staff worked quickly to get us into another (better) room despite a full house.

Ken Gooderham in Fort Myers, FL USA 08/07/2008

Best: Hotel- Hotel d'Argouges, Bayeux, France
Why: Great location, beautiful gardens, quiet rooms, good breakfast; but what makes all the difference is the staff, who accommodate your every need. They were responsive, helpful, kind understanding. Due to a serious medical emergency, we had to extend our stay from 3 days to 8, and they worked with us to make this work.

Debbie Mc Kay in Santa Rosa, CA USA 07/27/2008

Best: La Tour de Cause, Dordogne
Why: Friendly (American) owners, free internet on their computer, lovely house and grounds, nice little touches (good soaps and towels), spacious rooms, and the best bed we had in France.

Christy in Seattle, WA USA 07/23/2008

Best: Le Cep in Beaune
Why: Idyllic location in the Burgundy region and VIP service from front desk to room - luxury and old world courtesy at its best.

Sharon Wardrip in Indianapolis, IN USA 07/16/2008

Best: Hotel Regence- Arles
Why: Very clean, small, cheery rooms, great location.

Worst: Hotel la Belle Meuniere-Nice
Why: Our quiet room in this place was exceptionally dreary, not very clean and you need to bring your own soap. (They do provide towels.) We looked at the brighter balcony rooms-fine if you plan on awakening at 4:30 or 5:00 a.m in summer, when sun rises, (beautiful lace curtains, but no heavier curtains to keep room dark) or if you don't mind the later night noise from travellers socializing on the patio in the evening. Also, what's with "charasmatic Madame Marie-Pierre presides..." Young college students from Mexico and Columbia (who were very helpful)and one older (50's) French man "presided" during our four day stay. I would never stay here again. We have stayed in Rick-recommended hotels in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, as well as other parts of France, and this one was the very worst. I suggest not recommending it, unless you really tell about the down side.

Sheila in Albuquerque, NM USA 07/14/2008

Best: Hotel Manoir de Rigourdaine
Why: This "resort" has a wonderful ambiance. Owner Patrick is a gem. When my wife badly injured her finger on a fold-up restaurant chair in Port Dinan, he dug around and came up with bandages and disinfectant. Thanks again Patrick.

Martin Jansen in Agoura Hills, Ca USA 07/13/2008

Best: Hotel Relais Bosquet in Paris
Why: Quality/reliability of hotel, breakfast buffet (free to us as Rick Steves readers), rue Cler neighborhood, proximity to Eiffel Tower. We also really liked Hotel Suisse in Nice.

Worst: Hotel Calendal (mildly disappointing)
Why: While we really liked the common areas, computers and breakfast buffet, our rooms were a bit less nice than expected. I stayed here 8 years ago, and liked the rooms better then. We had rooms 23 and 25 this time. It would be great if the rooms had a small fridge, too.

Chris McNally in Everett, WA USA 07/10/2008

Worst: Hotel Leveque, Paris
Why: We have not even taken our trip yet and I already know that this is the worst as someone at the hotel has made fraudulent charges on our credit card. It is the only vendor that we used the card and all of the charges have originated in France. Needless to say, we already have a bad taste in our mouth for this hotel.

Rebecca and Jason Hartsough in Charlotte, NC USA 07/08/2008

Best: La Grange Chambres (bed-and-breakfast in Amboise)
Why: Lovely room, beautiful courtyard garden for relaxing, nice breakfast, extremely hospitable hosts did everything possible to make us feel at home (owner Yveline was away for the weekend, but her son Alain did a great job).

Marian Ziegler in Drums, PA USA 06/26/2008

Worst: La Belle Chappee in Carcassone
Why: This is definitely not a worst B&B but a possible glitch needs to be pointed out. There is absolutely no check in until 4:00 pm. So we arrive at 2:00 pm and there is no answer at the door of this B&B. We check our printed out confirmation and there it is in fine print. No luggage drop is possible but she suggests exploring Carcassone and visiting the shops. Well there we are with our luggage so all we could do was wander down the street to a wine bar and wait there for two hours. Luckily the wine bar had big umbrellas on the outdoor terrace as it began to rain. The owner of Belle Chappee really needs to offer a luggage drop. I can't imagine what it would be like to arrive before noon.

Susan Jennings in Atlanta, USA 06/13/2008

Best: Residence Versailles, Beynac
Why: This is a great place to stay in a country setting (assuming you have a car). Francoise and Jean-Claude treat their guests very well and provide great breakfasts. I stayed in the green room which was spacious and had a great view of the hills. This is a good location because it's central to all of the caves with prehistoric art.

Kathy in San Francisco, CA USA 06/05/2008

Best: Hotel Regence, Arles
Why: It's been over five years since I stayed at this hotel and it's changed owners and they have been improving it. Rooms are nicely Provencal and clean. I like this hotel because of the location. We could park on the street in front of the hotel and it was a five to ten minute walk to the sights of Arles. It is also quiet and breakfast is reasonable and served by the owners in a friendly and gracious manner.

Bob in Norem, AZ USA 06/05/2008

Best: Chateau Meylet in St. Emillion
Why: This was a great place to stay. A real bargain with lots of charm. It is possible to walk into the little town of St. Emillion to avoid the parking hassle. Madam Favoure allowed us to use laundry in the B&B and when we returned from the town she had dried and folded our clothes. This was a first for us in our travels. We gave her some Euros for the favor.

Susan Jennings in Atlanta, Ga USA 05/31/2008

Best: Hotel le Royal, Nice, France
Why: As promised, the location was terrific, staff was helpful and the larger seaview room was worth the extra money. A couple of times we ate breakfast or light lunch at a table in our room overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean. Le Grand Tour Bus had a stop a block away and was a great option for us as a way to see the city and the sights and save our energy (and feet!). We had beautiful weather in May and the upper level of the bus was pure pleasure!

Anne and Bob in North Caldwell, NJ USA 05/26/2008

Best: Hotel Belle-Vue, Amboise
Why: Clean, comfortable rooms, decent price, friendly and helpful staff, breakfast was definitely worth the Euros - yoghurt, eggs, ham, cheese, fresh fruit salad, croissants, bread, cake, cookies, cereal and wonderful coffee. We loved staying in Amboise.

Worst: Cardinal de Rohan, Strasbourg
Why: Tiny, airless room. Mold on the ceiling above the shower. Very hard bed and pillow, very old, stained blanket. I barely slept.

Karen Snyder in Parsippany, NJ USA 05/24/2008

Best: Hotel Bourdonnais
Why: We spent 9 nights here and enjoyed it very much. The room was clean and very adequate and the staff were helpful. The atmosphere is very pleasant and it is close to Rue Cler and the Eiffle Tower. It is important to remember that the breakfast that they serve in NOT included so that there is no misunderstanding about the bill at check out time. There is a grocery store practically next door and other eating options nearby. We would definitely return to this hotel again.

Phyllis Smith in Minneapolis, MN USA 05/20/2008

Best: Chez Leslie in Colmar
Why: The rooms were nicely decorated and maintained. (We even had washcloths!) Breakfasts were good. Best of all, Leslie was extremely helpful. Besides helping us with restaurant recommendations and supplying bicycle trail maps, she came to our aid when we couldn't find the Europcar location to pick up our rental. What they listed as their "downtown" location was actually miles away at the airport. Leslie called them to make sure the car was still waiting for us and then drove us out to their airport location.

Kitty in Centennial, CO USA 05/19/2008

Best: Hotel Turenne, Colmar, France
Why: Wonderful, friendly, very accomodating staff, nice rooms, quiet. Close to everything-5 minute walk. Very worthwhile breakfast offered.

Worst: Hotel Villa Fleurie, Beaune, France
Why: Our room was small but comfortable, horrid, lumpy pillows, but it was on a very busy, very noisy major street that flanked the hotel on two sides. With the window open-it was spring and warm outside-we were kept awake until about 12:30 am and woken up in the mornings by about 5:30 am with all the traffic whizzing by. Not a restful place!

Suzanne Hannus in Bothell, WA USA 05/17/2008

Best: Hotel Churchill
Why: Great location in Bayeux; the staff is knowledgable, curtious, and friendly; and the rooms are reasonably priced. The Hotel Churchill is my new home in Normandy.

Robert Schiffner in Moses Lake, WA USA 05/11/2008

Best: Hotel Churchill, Bayeux
Why: Centrally located, very nice pleasant staff. Nice rooms. (although the street it's on now has traffic)

travelfan in Washington, DC USA 05/10/2008

Best: Hotel le Calendal in Arles
Why: Was everything that your book said it was. The people there were so nice! There wasn't anything that they wouldn't do for us. We were so glad to stay there

Kathy and Mark Kelsey in Santa Clara, CA USA 05/02/2008

Best: Hotel Montaigne in Sarlat
Why: This is a 3-4 star hotel masquerading as a 2 star and at 2-star prices! Spotlessly clean. Good sized room and bathroom. Extremely courteous and helpful front desk. STAY HERE!!!

Harold Erath in New Orleans, LA USA 04/23/2008

Best: Hotel Montmorency, Carcassonne
Why: Location, location, location!! Also, the desk staff was exceptionally accommodating and helpful (especially when I sprained my ankle on the last day and they called a local pharmacy to open early so I could get crutches), the room was adorable and very clean, parking was easy on-site, breakfast was great, the list goes on and on. I would definitely go back there again.

Barbara Ricciardi in Denville, NJ USA 04/21/2008

Worst: Hôtel Prince, Avenue Bosquet, Paris
Why: France 2008 reports that this hotel has “acceptable” rooms. That may be an adequate adjective given the market in this neighborhood, but we were highly disappointed by Hôtel Prince, and we think that Rick should revise his description to reflect the hotel’s true character—très, très fatigué (very, very tired). We were in a “triple room with bath” (#202, two twin-size beds with a third rollaway shoe-horned between them) for 125 euros/night. The furniture was chipped and gouged, the lighting was dim, the towels were thin and frayed, the blankets were of questionable cleanliness, the woodwork paint was chipped, the wallpaper above the headboard was soiled, and the ceiling paint was peeling. The handheld shower head was mounted high enough for showering, yet it was impossible to shower, due to the absence of a shower curtain or door. We could hear telephone conversations, snoring, and creaking beds in the next room. The hallways were narrow and dreary—dimly lighted, with worn and rumpled carpeting over uneven flooring, cobwebs in the stairwell, evidence of water damage on walls, and an indescribable textured wall treatment. On the bright side, the sheets and towels were clean, the curtains and bedspreads were cheerful, the bathroom fixtures were clean, there was plenty of hot water, the room had a small refrigerator, and the location is indeed excellent.

Linda Durfee and Paul Henneberger Morgantown, WV, USA, and Barcelona, Spain April 2008

Linda Durfee & Paul Henneberger in Morgantown, WV USA & Barcelona Spain 04/20/2008

Best: Hotel Colbert, Avignon
Why: The Colbert is the perfect place to stay because it makes train travel very, very easy. They were friendly and the beds weren't as firm as other places we stayed at (like the Calendal in Arles -- those beds are inhuman).

Worst: Grand Hotel Leveque, Paris
Why: The staff was disappointing. We were there for four nights and they only gave us a thimble full of soap for showering. I asked for another thimble full and the young woman told me they didn't have any. We went back and forth and she finally agreed to have someone send it up. It never materialized, so we ended up using my face cleanser instead. And on departure day, our airport shuttle was booked improperly and didn't show up, so we had to grab a last minute cab (which cost twice as much). I had an instinctive feeling that it wasn't booked right because the guy who did it didn't seem overly invested in the details. Let me add that my husband and I are pretty easy going, as we're in the the hospitality industry too and know what a pain tourists can be. But relatively clean armpits and a timely ride on departure day are pretty basic needs that simply weren't met.

Elizabeth in San Francisco, CA USA 04/16/2008

Best: Hotel Churchill, Bayeux
Why: The hosts and hostesses are very nice, and they speak English well. It is a cozy place that seems to cater to English speaking tourists,decorated with D-Day memorabilia. The petit dejeuner was served in a bright and cheery fashion. I will say that as an older, smaller place, the walls are thin, so ask for a quiet room, and bring earplugs.

Elaine Cheng in Downers Grove, IL USA 04/05/2008

Best: Le Mas Normand
Why: We took our 11 year old grandson to Normandy over Easter and stayed with Mylene Gilles at Le Mas Normand in Ver sur Mer, just 20 minutes north of Bayeux. She is very welcoming and has poured love and attention into her rooms and guests. Our room for 3 was beautiful and had the best bathroom, with beautiful tiles, lots of hot water, 2 sinks, and great shower. Open beams adorn the room and bathroom, and the beds are most comfortable.

On Easter she gave our grandson a large chocolate rabbit! Her breakfasts are large and varied, and she loves to stay and talk with you about your plans, in French or English!

If 4 guests request dinner, Christian will cook, but we didn't have the opportunity to experience dinner here. Just a short drive away there are several restaurants serving pizza, crepes, fish etc.

We hope to return again. www.lemasnormand.com

Le Mas Normand 8, Impasse de la Riviere Ver sur Mer Mylene Gilles and Christian Meriel

Lorrie in Cincinnati, Oh USA 04/03/2008

Best: Chambres des Grand puits, Carcassonne
Why: The was large, Nicole was wonderful ( I speak enough french to converse in french with her). These chambres d'hotes are centrally located within the cite and there was plenty of roomfor myself, my son and another teen. We could make our own breakfast, there wwa a fridge and hotplate for cooking. Nicole provides breakfast food. There was even a private courtyard patio which we would have enjoyed more had it not rained. when we were leaving Nicole clled a taxi for us to met us at the Narbonne gate. A great experience.

Elizabeth Benham in Sable River, NS Canada 03/28/2008

Best: Ibis Dinan
Why: Great location in downtown Dinan. Very reasonable rates (we paid 39€ per night over Easter weekend).

Karis in Cross Plains, WI USA 03/26/2008

Best: Les Vieille Digues
Why: Danielle was just great

Whit in Wilkerson, NC USA 03/26/2008

Best: Hotel Leveque
Why: Terrific location. Terrific service. Terrific value.

Bridget Zappa in Mendota Heights, MN USA 03/24/2008

Best: Hotel Leveque/Hotel Rosarie
Why: Good price, comfortable accomadations, great location.

Worst: The worst accomadation was not recommended by you.
Why: We used Karen Brown's B&B guides for all other accomadations. They were all very nice but some of the older manoirs get kind of chilly especially in March. Our worst experience was in Toulouse at Arquier. It was a B&B I found on the internet. The manoir was beautiful and resonably priced but the host was a little grumpy. Oh well!

Yvonne Jahnke in Oconomowoc, WI USA 03/24/2008

Best: Andre and Madeleine Sebire Farm house Ryes
Why: Wonderful. Great shower. Please add to guidebook that Ryes is on D-12 then D-205 from Bayeux.

Worst: Dinan: Hotel Manoir de Rigourdaine
Why: Closed.

Jon T. Haugen in VANCOUVER, WA USA 03/06/2008

Best: accommodation recommendations in Colmar (Maison Jund) and Reims (the Phillipons)
Why: Wonderful, inexpensive, comfortable places that put us exactly where we wanted to be: in the middle of the picturesque sites! Both the Junds and the Phillipons were hospitable and friendly -- although Maison Jund is clearly "budget," in that it was a bit more run down that we'd expected (tiles were falling off in the shower, dishes in the kitchenette were dirty, etc.)

Erika in Santa Barbara, CA USA 02/18/2008

Best: Katia Frain's
Why: peaceful, good accomodations, breakfast, helpful

Liz Thompson in Ridgefield, wa USA 02/04/2008

Best: Residence Versailles - Beynac
Why: The Dordogne meet all my expectations - a river meandering thru lush mountains, castles, quaint rock sculptured villages and of course a gem of a bed and breakfast. We arrived there just in time for dinner and what a treat. Madame Francoise made a home cooked meal that I will never forget! Duck confit, greens from her garden, fresh squash soup, local goat cheese and homemade walnut pie. We happened to share several of our meals with 2 couples from different parts of Europe who like this place so much, they come back again and again! They helped translate all the info (shoping in Sarlat) and the stories (about cowboys and the wild west - the Fleurys love anything to do with cowboys) into english. We had a very large room with a big bed we had a terrace overlooking the valley in the distance. At night you could see lights flickering from distant castles and you could hear the leaves rustling as the wind goes by -- it was very peaceful. The breakfasts are just as good -- Madame makes her own jams --I thought the fig jam was great. The Fleurys made us feel at home -- even our laundry got done! The French are wonderful and hospitable people.

Maria Geary in Lakewood, CA USA 02/01/2008

Best: Hotel la Roseraie
Why: Laurent and Sophie were great!! They work hard to keep the place clean and their guests happy. My husband hurt his foot when we were in Brugge. Everybody there was attentive to our needs. They gave my husband ice every evening and made sure at dinner time that he sat close to the door. The dinner is a wonderful treat make sure to make reservations! Laurent and Sophie serve you themselves and treat you like friends and family. I don't drink wine, but Laurent gave we this sweet wine -- I drank the whole glass. Never have I tasted wine this good! The rooms were clean and charmingly decorated. The location was excellent too. If I were to go visit the Loire Valley I would stay here again!

Maria Geary in Lakewood, CA USA 02/01/2008

Best: L'Ermitage
Why: My girl friend & I spent a month in France. We visited the Cotes Du Rhone Villages while staying a week in an apartment at L'Ermitage that sits below the wonderful old village of Le Crestet- an untouristed delight to explore. Only a couple of miles away from Vaison-la-Romaine enabled us to enjoy Vaison's narrrow streets by moonlight & arrive early for a local street sale much like our garage sales. We drove to Mt. Ventoux on our way to Sault where the lavendar fields were in bloom. L'Ermitage location is just great. The best part of the stay was due to the gracious hospitality of Nick Jones the owner. He cheerfully unplugged the sink we ran pasta down, did our laundry & offered moral support when he received an email from my home that said my husband had suffered a stroke. He offered use of his phone to call the US & any other help I neeed. The next morning after receiving news of my husband, we found our car in the driveway with a flat tire. Nick changed the tire & directed us to his mechanic. L'Ermitage was a great place to stay. Nick Jones is a special host willing to extend human kindness when most needed.

Beverly Clauser in Ramona, CA USA 01/31/2008

Best: Domaine de Moulin Mer
Why: Newly renovated, fabulous settings by the sea. Domaine de Moulin Mer 34 route de Moulin Mer 29460 Logonna-Daoulas France www.domaine-moulin-mer.com

Stéphane in Logonna-Daoulas, France 01/24/2008

Best: Palais Bourbon in Paris
Why: Great location, good value, friendly staff!

Charlene Hottel in Westerville, OH USA 01/03/2008

Worst: Iris Hotel
Why: We had a room that reeked of cigarette smoke and the room looked dirty.

Marina in Honolulu, USA 12/31/2007

Worst: Hotel Europa in Madrid
Why: Front desk reservation desk staff are very ignorant and not helpful with directions over the phone on how to get to the hotel, especially in the summer when the streets are closed to vehicles. Also, they were not able to inform us that the garage ws not adjacent to the Hotel itself via e-mail when asked. They responded that there is hotel parking available but there was no mention it was located one block up the hill from the hotel. We had trouble locating the hotel as it was on a one-way street and it was blocked off onloy to pedestrians. I also e-mailed them 3 months prior to coming when I made the reservations. Hotel staff mentioned that the parking rate was only 20,00E a day, but we ended up for there 2 1/2 days and it was 25,80E a day- over 76,80E for only 2 1/2 days. Hotel Europa is at a good location nearby the Puerta del Sol area where everything is happening, but very expensive parking rates.

k. moy in san francisco, ca USA 12/23/2007

Worst: Residence Versailles- Beynec
Why: We are avid Steves' readers and know this chamber de hote has had rave reviews, however, as seasoned travellers, we were not impressed. It is very hard to find, hard to get to, and we felt there was an odor of cat urine outside and in our room. We drove down from Burgundy and , of course it took much longer than had been expected. We had told the owners that we would be late and found not only was it very difficult to find in the dark, but they had given away the pink room we had reserved. The green room was very small and the toilet did not work well. Also, as I stated, the was a smell of cat in the corner of the room. The price was way too high for off season and there are better values in town. They told us it had a castle view..yes, if one had binoculars.

Jane in Lebanon , OH USA 12/17/2007

Best: Les Cymaises in Semur-en Auxois
Why: Once again we stayed at the Les Cymaises in Semur. Very reasonable, Very clean, lovely breakfast, private parking,and best of all Monsieur and Madame Faidide are such lovely and helpful hosts. Close to wonderful medieval villages and the vineyards of Burgundy.

Jane Davis in Lebanon , OH USA 12/17/2007

Best: Hotel Suisse, Strasbourg, France
Why: The staff, Beatrice and Edith particularily, were extremely helpful from the minute we entered. Edith alerted us about the rail strike and suggested that we keep our car to drive back to Paris. The plus of this hotel was the CNN and BCC television stations to get the update on the strike news and the internet access for the guests. Edith gave us great directions when we got to Charles deGaulle airport - tip on which signs to return our car were very helpful. I would certainly send anyone visitng Strasbourg to this hotel.....right next to the Cathedral and next to the canal where you catch the boat excursions.

Marti Hawkins in Portland, Me USA 12/02/2007

Best: Hotel la Roseraie in Chenonceaux
Why: We traveled from Nice to Paris over the course of a few weeks and by far, the best accommodation we experienced in France was at La Roseraie in Chenonceaux. The hotel is beautiful and spotlessly clean. The reasonably priced rooms are all different and each is beautifully appointed has its own charming character. The proud owners, Laurent and Sophie directly oversee every aspect of the operation and they're alway available to answer your questions, to provide travel advice or to simply share a good laugh. Along with the exceptionally friendly and helpful Sabrina at the front desk, they truly make you feel at home. If you stay at La Roseraie, you MUST make a point of having dinner there. I promise, you will not have a better meal in all of France! And whatever you do, don't miss the breakfast; their chef makes the most delicious pain au chocolat I've ever tasted! When we next return to France, we'll definitely be spending a great deal of time in the beautiful Loire Valley but most of all, we're looking forward to staying at La Roseraie!!

J. Koch in Ottawa, ON Canada 11/20/2007

Best: Hotel le Bayeux, Bayeux, France
Why: We didn't actually stay because it was booked out however Madam Lamontagne went out of her way to find somewhere for us to stay. It seemed nearly every Hotel in our price range was booked out. In fact we had actually booked a B&B but they had not held our room and were extremely unhelpful. When she finally found us a room in an old lady's attic she walked us down and introduced us. She also spent quite a bit of time planning our itinerary in Bayeux, recommending a friendly restaurant and inviting us for breakfast the next morning.

Judith Bowman in mission beach, Ql Australia 11/15/2007

Best: Hotel Churchill, Bayeux
Why: Clean, friendly and helpful, the atmosphere at breakfast is special.

Quentin Kenney in Germantown, TN USA 11/10/2007

Best: Hotel Calendal, Arles
Why: Wonderful view of Classical Theater, worth the bit of street noise you get. Friendly staff, quaint establishment, well-stocked breakfast buffet.

Worst: Hotel du Parc, Avignon
Why: Very disappointed in this recommendation. They first tried to stick us in a room w/ a private shower, but shared toilet, taking advantage of the fact that I'd only specified the former and not the latter in my e-mail. I could have dealt with it, but it felt like they were trying to pull a fast one. Then my husband discovered that our "skeleton-looking" key did indeed unlock other people's doors (he checked with their permission)and vice versa. After that, we wanted to leave. After some squabbling, they did not agree to not charge us until I addressed Madame Rous and showed her my Rick Steves guidebook. I do not feel they are worthy of the listing, especially with the security issue.

Kristin Dow in Shawnee, KS USA 11/09/2007

Best: La Jacotiere
Why: The rooms were large, bright, and clean. Claudine and her husband were absolutely delightful. We were facing a Paris transport strike on our return, and they drove us to Rennes. This enabled us to change our rail ticket and easily arrive in Paris before the strike.

Susan Gibb in Santa Ana, CA USA 11/02/2007

Best: Hotel Le Blason, Amboise
Why: The front desk people were very friendly and helpful. The room itself was clean and well apportioned.

Worst: Hotel Le Bayeux, Bayeux
Why: The room was clean, and I loved having my own shower, but, I was turned off by the fact that they kept trying to nickle and dime me. I had to be very assertive that I did not want the 'optional' breakfast, she tried to tell me I couldn't eat in the room, charged 2 euros just to get a line out of the room (even though I had a phone card that wouldn't cost anything), and charged 2 euros for 2 consecutive hours of internet access (who needs two hours at a shot while on vacation?). The owner woman was also the person I had the greatest difficulty speaking with in my limited french while in France.

in Cambridge, MA USA 10/29/2007

Worst: Hotel Vert
Why: Rooms had an odor that we could not abide.

Jim Reid in San Diego, Ca USA 10/20/2007

Best: Hotel du Musee
Why: Clean, comfortable rooms, excellent friendly staff and owners, wonderful breakfasts, and close to all the things we wanted to see.

Worst: Hotel de Champs du Mars
Why: Cramped rooms, inattentive personnel, especially at breakfast (we only ate there once, then went across the street to a cafe).

David Rohlader in Eagar, AZ USA 10/18/2007

Best: Grand Hotel Leveque
Why: Fantastic street! We stayed on the courtyard side in a small double room. It was a bit noisier than I expected and a bit small, but am told this is common in Paris. Bathroom was small but clean and singing maid was a delight. Hotel staff was very very nice and helpful. We do not speak french and were able to communicate everywhere in Paris. Value of Euro is a killer, bu my wife absolutely loved Paris and Leveque. Not "roomy", but a good value. I would recommending taking my chance on a Rue Cler side room as the courtyard room was not that quiet. Very good location for a first timer in Paris. Thanks, Steve. We AlWAYS travel with your books and love your advice and tours. Thanks again.

Jim USA 10/16/2007

Best: Hotel D'Argouges in Bayeux
Why: Although a small room, the hotel is gorgeous and centrally located. Cheval Rouge was nice, but our room was terribly small. I would recommend the the hotel, but be sure to request a mid-size room.

Susan Tucker in Ashland , VA USA 10/08/2007

Best: Hotel la Roseraie in Chenonceaux
Why: Our room was big, and well decorated. The lovely garden has seating so you can enjoy an afternoon coke, read, or write in you journal. The restaurant was excellent. So good we decided to return for another evening. The breakfast has fresh croissants that are wonderful.

Joanna Olmstead in Anacortes, WA USA 10/07/2007

Best: We loved Hotel d'Argouges in Bayeux.
Why: Good location to Market day. It has lovely accommodations and the very charming, helpful Madame Ropartz makes your stay special.

Joanna Olmstead in Anacortes, WA USA 10/07/2007

Worst: Hotel des Arcades, Reims, France
Why: While in France this September, my husband and I decided at the last minute to spend a night in Reims. A friend of ours who lives in Paris checked on the internet and, after finding no vacancies at other hotels, made a reservation for us at the Hotel des Arcades. I noticed later that it is listed in your 2006 book as “nothing special, but a fair deal.” My local Barnes & Noble did not have your latest book on France, so I don’t know if you still have Hotel des Arcades listed. If so, please take it out! We didn't arrive until 8:30 pm. The place is hard to find and the lobby is "low rent," as was our room - carpet tiles not glued down, lighting was poor (maybe a blessing!), and bedspread strangely thrown together. My husband closed the curtain - afraid to see what was outside. Bathroom did seem clean. After a short time, we asked for our money back (which we did receive) and left. I would have rather slept in the car. We found a room at Grand Hotel Continental - lovely place. Des Arcades may be okay for college kids but not adults!

Julie Park in Richmond, VA USA 10/05/2007

Worst: Hotel Campanile Roissy
Why: Hotel Campanile Roissy was cheap but adequate for a one night stay near CDG airport. Kitchen was dirty and staff personnel were not helpful; but the hotel shuttle to airport did work.

Albert in Clanton, AL USA 10/02/2007

Worst: Grand Leveque
Why: The hotel was over rated. The carpet was deeply stained and obviously hadn't been cleaned in some time. The shower had mold growing up the corners, and the shower flooded (very slow drain). The toilet seat would not stay in the upright position. When we registered a complaint, we were told the hotel is being remodeled in Nov., and we were handed a tray of tools to make the repairs. When we requested plastic cups the second day (we'd thrown the first day's away), the response was, "We don't replace the cups every day." I would not recommend this hotel to anyone even at the two star price. Way over rated. Should be downgraded immediately.

Nelson Gooding in Lakewood, WA USA 10/01/2007

Best: LA DOMAINE DE CORGETTE - ST ROMAIN
Why: Veronique and her family are very accommodating. The rooms are spotless. They opened their B&B 3 years ago and it still looks brand new. The breakfast was very good. I would definitely stay there again.

Cindy Bonney in Fox Island, WA USA 09/22/2007

Best: Grand Hotel Leveque
Why: It was okay. We felt that a 13-year-old should be given a little lower price for sleeping on a pull-out couch.

Martha Brice in Bratislava, Slovakia 09/20/2007

Best: The apartment we rented in Paris through Paris Perfect.
Why: It had all the modern conveniences and comforts of home, and was clean and well cared for. It was within walking distance to Rue Cler, the Eiffel Tower and the Batobus. The Paris Perfect folks extend amazing hospitality, provide extensive information about the neighborhood and are available 12 hours a day to assist in any way. It was a great way to spend our first week in France.

Kathy Healy in Manhattan Beach, CA USA 09/17/2007

Best: Hotel du Champ de Mars (Paris - Rue Cler)
Why: Great in every respect. We stayed there for 15 days. Stephan and Francoise are wonderful people and operate a first class moderate price hotel. We will stay with them every time we are in Paris....assuming we can get a reservation since they seem to always be full.

Russell Smart in Greenville, SC USA 09/11/2007

Best: La Tour de Cause, near Castelnaud (Dordogne area)
Why: Beautiful accommodations in a fabulous area of the country. Our room was large, spotlessly maintained with a large bathroom. You will think you are staying in a 4 star hotel - very tastefully decorated, large comfortable beds, fluffy comforters, internet access, handmade soaps, nice outdoor pool. Cate and Albert are wonderful hosts. They know the area well and can recommend good restaurants, best places to visit, additional services (like a local laverie that can wash all your clothes for you while you sight see). Best of all they are warm and welcoming and very interesting to talk to. Highly recommended.

M. Weber in Merion, PA USA 09/05/2007

Best: Hotel Champ de Mars, Paris
Why: A nice suprise of nice, modern bathrooms!

Jennifer Larsen in Falcon Heights, MN USA 08/23/2007

Best: Did not use your accommodations, had a friend's apartment, then a timeshare.
Why: Nice - Hotel Suisse - fabulous - the view of the beach spectacular!

Sharon & Leo Marty in Olympia, WA USA 08/21/2007

Best: Au Faison Dore in Annecy
Why: Not in your book, it is not in the Old Town, but is a short 10-15 minute walk along the lake. We enjoy the stroll along such a pretty lake, and it was great to walk off our dinner at night. Hotel is a 3 star, not fancy, but a good price. The staff was extremely helpful and nice. They had English brochures waiting for us in our room when we arrived. They let us use their computer to check our email. Parking is easy, and they do have covered parking garage for 8 Euros a day. You really don't want to drive too much in Annecy, the traffic is a mess. We would definitely stay there again.

Worst: Hotel de l'Arve in Chamonix
Why: This is really not a bad hotel, a great breakfast and friendly staff. Also a good location. Easy parking. However, they do not have any non-smoking rooms. Our first night they were completely full and could not move us. The smoke smell was unbearable, even though we slept with the window open. All of our clothes smelled like smoke. They did move us the next day, still a smoking room, but it was bearable. They are close to a laundry, which was helpful, since we had to wash so many of our clothes. The smoke smell was that bad.

Kathy and Mark Kelsey in Santa Clara, CA USA 08/08/2007

Best: Chateau des Ormeaux Nazelles Negron, Loire Valley
Why: Simply put the best place we stayed in France, and we stayed at some lovely properties. Found it thru Tripadvisor, which I use in conjunction with Rick. Anyway, Excellent Chateau, breakfast, accomadations, flowered gardens, vineyards, hiking trails, etc...Including a super friendly yellow lab named Vick.

Jim in Marietta, Ga USA 07/30/2007

Best: Hotel Les Almadies, St. Jean de Luz
Why: M and Mme Hargous are very attentive and go out of their way to ensure that your stay is comfortable. Response to e-mail reservation request was very prompt and polite. Rooms are delightfully decorated, neat and clean. Excellent continental breakfast. Located just a 10 minute walk from the train station and a 5 minute walk from the T.I. Only disadvantage for those fond of early bedtime is somewhat noisy location on main pedestrian shopping street which becomes quieter after 10 PM. Guidebook description is exactly correct.

JAN COLLINS in PORTLAND, OR USA 07/29/2007

Best: Tie. Hotel Lyon Mulhouse (Paris Marais) and Hotel Medieval (Avignon)
Why: Very helpful staff. Good accommodations. Convenient locations.

Worst: Hotel Ibis - Nice
Why: Room smelled like smoke. Rude desk staff.

Heather Wills in Dallas, TX USA 07/18/2007

Best: hotel les almadies, st.jean du luz
Why: quaint boutique hotel;nice big bathrooms,excellent breakfast;very nice owners;only problem is parking as they're on a pedestrian street;best bet is park at the casino lot and walk 4 blocks downhill to hotel

ANDREW FORSTER in CORAL AGBLES, FL USA 07/16/2007

Best: Dordogne: La Tour de Cause, Pont de Cause, near Castelnaud
Why: This impeccably restored manor house and barn in a quiet village near everything of note in the Dordogne is a veritable oasis of luxury and kindness. The owners, Caitlyn and Albert Woodbury, go out of their way to make your stay comfortable and meaningful. Using Rick's France 2007, we called them from the road as we were heading north into the region on the A 20 from Cahors. They had accommodations for two nights which we grabbed. What good fortune for us. They gave us great directions and we pulled into the driveway with the blue gate as mentioned in the book. Our jaws dropped when we were shown our room: this was not just a B&B; this was like a second honeymoon! The room was beautiful and extremely comfortable with sumptuous linens and a bathroom with a huge shower and showerhead that made us feel as if we were in a spa. Breakfast was generous and delicious--the best baguette of the trip--with terrific fresh fruit. Better still, however, were Caitlyn and Albert who are a wealth of information and kindness. They directed us to canoe rentals, restaurants, and another great place to stay for the night they could not accommodate us. If you need a respite on your travels through France, this is a place that will not disappoint.

Betty Esris in Warrington, PA USA 07/11/2007

Best: the Beaugency Hotel
Why: It had free internet for us and was close to the Ecole Militaire Metro. Room was clean and air-conditioned.

madeline hanrath in gretna, la USA 06/29/2007

Best: La Cour St. Catherine, Honfleur
Why: Mme. Giaglis is a delight, the rooms are spacious and clean and Honfleur is a little gem of a seaside town. It was raining when we arrived, but the sun came out next morning, so Mme. Giaglis herself picked up our table from the dining room and carried it out into the sunny garden for our breakfast. Can't recommend this place enough.

Worst: Hotel du Champs de Mars
Why: This is not a bad place-it's very nice, actually, as far as decor and the wonderful breakfast. The problem is that the management is very disorganized and this can result in problems. They lost my reservation even with credit card confirmation, then found space for me at another hotel for part of my stay, which was an awful little room with no charm at all. I stayed at the Champs de Mars later when they did have an opening. They send the maid out for the oranges and bread as people show up for breakfast, which results in delays and some days angry sulking service. The owners seem pretty disinterested in helping with anything, even though we did not complain at all about the problems we had encountered up to that point. If you want absolutely charming rooms in a great location with a great breakfast, this is a good place. Just don't expect the warmth that you find in many of the French hotels I have stayed at.

Melinda Collins in Redwood City, CA USA 06/25/2007

Best: Hotel D'Argouges in Bayeux
Why: Wonderful, clean large rooms w/fridge and large bathrooms, beautiful hotel with flower-filled gardens, Incredibly Nice owner and staff, located in the heart of town, free parking, great breakfasts, beautifully decorated and inexpensive. We LOVED this hotel!!!

susan in corte madera, ca USA 06/20/2007

Worst: Stay away from Hotel D'Alma in the 7TH Paris
Why: Fleas !

Eric Sorensen USA 06/18/2007

Best: Villa des Consuls in Sarlat
Why: David has created classy, comfortable 4-star rooms and apartments in a medieval house. He has free laundry service and the BEST showers in France. (even better than the Hilton). David himself is very helpful.

Julie Nelson in Calgary, AB Canada 06/17/2007

Best: Hotel du Chateau, Beynac
Why: We called the day before arriving. No doubles were available but Christoph gave us a large studio apartment for the same rate. Beautiful view, king bed and fresh fruit on the table! Free internet, swimming pool and right in the center of town. Christoph is fluent in English, gives excellent driving directions and is very helpful.

We also spent 3 pleasant days at the beautiful Moulin du Fief Gentil in Blere. Florence is very hospitable and helpful, and her homemade jams are wonderful!

Worst: Hotel Angleterre, Versailles
Why: Our room was far from "comfortable and spacious" as described in your book. The bed was lumpy and there were hairs in the bedding and in the cramped shower. Great location, though.

Carolyn & Daniel Manrique in Tucson, AZ USA 06/17/2007

Best: Le Manoir Rigourdaine near Dinan and San Malo
Why: This place is a bit of heaven. Beautiful location, wonderful rooms, quiet surroundings with great walks, and great breakfasts. The hosts Patrick and Anne-France are delightful and took time to talk with us about where to go and talked too about the upcoming French election. It was nice to learn about the voting from locals. Wish we could have stayed longer than our few days. If you are tired and don't want to go out for dinner, try one of Patricks grilled cheese sandwiches with salad or bring a picnic dinner out on the terrace. We will go back to this place. Thanks Steve and Rick.

Paula Oppermann in Seattle, WA USA 06/09/2007

Best: Chateau de Pray- Near Amboise
Why: This hotel is excellent! The rooms are spacious, clean, and beautifully decorated. While dinner at the restaurant can be a little pricey for some budgets, it is well worth the splurge! The food is excellent! Overall, Chateau de Pray offers top-notch accomodations and food in a beautiful location!

Karen in San Antonio, TX USA 06/09/2007

Best: Hotel De la Marine - Arromanche
Why: Great location, wonderful customer service, terrific view of the ocean, easy to find... good food

Worst: Hotel Familie Jund - Colmar
Why: Extremely hard to find... multiple guests arrived in the days after us complaining they had spent 1-2 hours trying to find the place. While the family is welcoming... the bathroom door did not shut in either of our rooms, and we had to climb three flights of stairs to get to our room... challenging place to lie your head

Kaye Peloquin in Lititz, PA USA 06/08/2007

Best: La Tour De Cause (Dordogne River Valley)
Why: Caitlin Albert(?) treated us like family. They made reservations for restaurants for us, they suggested sites to see that were not in the guidebook, we even went out to dinner with them n our last night. There place was beautiful and we were very sorry to leave

Worst: Chateau De Nazelles (Loire Valley)
Why: When we arrived we could not find anyone and had no idea of where to go. We had to dig out our cell phone and call them from their courtyard. Our reception was cold, were were shown the breakfast room which is connected to the common room by their private livingroom. The fact that it was private was strongly emphasised. None f the amenites (forest, pool etc) were either eluded to or pointed out. The room we were put in allthough very pretty reeked of campfire, their is a fireplace in the room that I assume was causing the stench. During the dqy it is very hard to locate them. You have to really work at it. The French as a whole are very warm and friendly people we did not get that here.

Destiny in Littleton, CO USA 06/02/2007

Best: 3 B&Bs in the Dordogne/Lot region in France
Why: My husband and I recently returned from 10 great days in the Dordogne region of France. We stayed at 3 B&Bs.

(1) Residence Versailles. Large, clean room, peaceful setting, GREAT breakfast.

(2) Chateau Nineyrol. Ann and Phil treated us like family and shared many stories and tips about the region. Beautiful home, Bedroom was cozy, comfortable and very clean. Pool looked very inviting, too.

(3) Moulin de Fresquet in Gramat provided an absolutely beautiful setting in a rennovated mill. We had the smallest room of the 4 but it was perfect for us. Definitely want to eat your evening meal here.

You can't go wrong with any of these 3 B&Bs.

Tina & Andy Martelon in Denver, CO USA 05/29/2007

Best: Apartment on Rue Amelie
Why: Great landlord, Slim. Great location. Comfortable, clean, convenient apartment. Ask for the apartment on the quiet side of the building!!

Judy L. in Oklahoma City, OK USA 05/17/2007

Best: Residence Versailles, Beynac
Why: Fabulous people. Welcoming, friendly, helpful. Breakfast was lovely as were the grounds, view and room. We loved it here!

We also loved Gite Toulemon in Sarlat. They were great and we loved our huge room and smoke-free private dining terrase.

Worst: Le Belvedere-Rocamadour
Why: It took one month and 6 emails to get a confimation on my reservation after sending credit card number. Then they had both the rate and number of beds incorrect when we arrived. I politely showed them our email with the correct beds and price but was treated extremely rudely. (He said he would give us the correct price but he would not give us a view, even though the price difference was only a couple euro and it was their error). This treatment continued through our whole visit. Basically we were abused because of their mistake. The room was fine except we still received an incorrect room as we had requested a shower and got a bath instead. My mother and I were very disappointed in this hotel.

Judy A. Vosburgh in Atascadero, CA United States 05/15/2007

Best: Le Calendal
Why: Pleasant staff, charming rooms

Sharon Basile in Foster City, CA USA 05/14/2007

Best: Relais Medicis
Why: Great location on a quiet street except when the bars close.

Worst: Relais Medicis
Why: I am tall and we need a king size bed which is not always available. Steve Smith told us Rick has the same love of French tubs which I have. Hopefully, we will be able to find une cabin de douche in the future.

Frank Barry in Little Rock, AR USA 05/09/2007

Best: Maison Jund House in Colmar
Why: The place is very spacious, with a kitchen, a couch, a dining area, TV and balcony. The half-timbered houses was charming and the price is very reasonable at 50 euro per night.

Worst: Hotel Regence in Arles
Why: The manager over-charged us and refused to acknowledge it when we questioned him. We did not press the issue since it was not much and we had a train to catch, but I was disappointed with the dishonesty. Beware of the rates quoted through e-mail as it might be different from the ones clearly posted at the hotel. Double check with their websites.

Chang in San Francisco, CA USA 05/08/2007

Worst: Hôtel Saint-Michel Ridel at Mont-Saint Michel
Why: Hi, am contacting you as I am very disappointed of this hotel I don't want to recommend to anybody. When I checked following web site www.lesaintmichelridel.com/ I saw your book and I supposed it was nice to go there. Not at all ! It's expensive (80€), dirty (really !), old, noisy. Bad experience for such a beautiful place Le Mont-Saint Michel. Please go there but don't choose that hotel. Unfortunately, it's not a great image of France and I can understand how foreign travellers would feel after my experience. Thanks for reading and sharing my comments.

Claudie Cormier France 05/05/2007

Best: Bayeux, L'Argoules
Why: Central location,felt like safe environment and within easy walking distance of historic sites; quiet and refreshing; parking in garage facilities; very helpful staff. Breakfast was slightly over-priced. Overall, well recommended.

Howard E. Glitt in The Villages, Fl USA 04/30/2007

Best: Le Clos de Bellefontaine B&B in Bayeux
Why: Small (2 room) B&B in quiet, convenient location, close to train station. Hosts Jerome & Carole are cordial and helpful. Private, quiet, clean room and bathroom, lovely breakfast. Hosts will help with booking tours and navigating the area. Reasonable rates.

Beth Swanberg in Bloomington, Mn USA 04/28/2007

Best: La Jacotiere in mont St. Michel
Why: The room was spacious and the owner was cherry and helpful.

Chang in San Francisco, CA USA 04/27/2007

Best: Hotel du Dauphin, Honfleur
Why: Excellent downtown location, comfortable room, special requestlate evening tea/cake, understanding when lost key to room (later found)

Worst: Hotel le d'Avaugour, Dinan
Why: Sprained my ankle from a fall in the stairwell between second & first floors due to inadequate lighting. Management expressed concern but did nothing (said lighting could not be improved, did not have a doctor or nurse attend to me, did not offer to pay for first aid treatment (ointment and bandages), did not offer a complimentary service to compensate (aside from a free bag of ice) in any way for an injury that could have severely undermined my mobility for the balance of my vacation.

Richard Frank in Toronto, On Canada 04/26/2007

Best: Hotel Martin Jund, Colmar, France
Why: Having stayed in dozens of "Rick" hotels all over Europe, this was one of the most charming. Complete kitchen in a winery. Free wine tasting. Wonderful people, wonderful wine, great location. Apartment very clean, great shower. A real value at 49 euros! Plus laudry 2 blocks away.

Pat in Vinkenes, VA USA 04/23/2007

Best: Hotel Leveque, Rue Cler, Paris
Why: Good price, fine room, great neighborhood. They are updating the lobby and eating area as we speak.

Carl Scheider in Woodbury, MN USA 04/06/2007

Best: Grande Hotel Continental
Why: Sophie, Jamel, and the other staff members were most helpful, and the package was a great value! We enjoyed touring the Pommery champagne cellar, Reims cathedral, and other attractions. Thanks for the great recommendation. (For most of the trip, we stayed in the Paris condo of some friends.)

Mary B. White in Alexandria, VA USA 04/06/2007

Best: Hotel Royal Phare in Paris
Why: For the price, it was fantastic - included breakfast and the internet and the location was great.

Seth Resler in Providence, RI USA 02/25/2007

Best: apartment 1/2 a block from the louvre
Why: Clean , close ,

Jim & Sarah Stillo in Naperville, il USA 02/08/2007

Worst: Hotel de Nevers, paris
Why: Three middle aged sisters stayed in this hotel for 4 nights at end of Sept. 2006. No sight of Sophie and Alain as mentioned in guidebook. I think the hotel might have changed hands. I asked where the cats were and was told with Sophie and Alain. None of the gentlemen running the establishment were very friendly.

Ok, I can live without that in a budget hotel but our door lock was broken which resulted in us not locking the door, but piling our luggage up against the door, in case of fire. This was reported on 2 if not 3 days and we were always put off because it was the week-end and messages were not passed on.

While there is an offer of free internet, I was rudely told to get off in two minutes. As it turned out a gentlman was waiting and he was extremely pleasant but I have to say, I think women were second class to this particular gentleman.

I decided to settle my bill then and was quoted a higher rate. I advised that I was emailed that I had been guaranteed at a lower rate. He asked if I had a copy of this communication and luckily I had made a copy and brought it with me. I hiked up three floors, because the elevator was broken, to get the information. Upon my reutrn he had a binder open and a copy of my fax. I deliberately decided to settle my account in front of another customer because I was not feeling very comfortable with this establishment. I met another guest of the hotel, a U.S. woman who was travelling her mentally handicapped daughter and she commented that they were not helpful to her needs.

Recommend that this place be removed from guidebook. Other locations visited in Milan and Sorrento were bang on and acceptable budget accomodation.

Wendy Meynert in New Westminster, BC Canada 01/09/2007