Paris, France

Just over 2 years young, in the heart of the vibrant Bastille neighborhood, Eastern Paris city center welcomed it’s first five-star hotel, Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet. Housed in the historic building, Maison Boutet was originally built in 1926. This boutique hotel which was a former exotic wood supplier then a chocolate factory pays tribute to it’s roots while showing off it’s great characteristic charm .

I’ve been to Paris many times before and even ‘lived’ there for a whole month. Although I was pretty familiar to most places, the 11th arrondissement is still something new to me. As soon as our shuttle pulled into Rue Faidherbe, I recognized Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet right away. The Art-Deco exterior canopy towers the street and together with original Maison Boutet mosaics from 1926 that was beautifully restored, the hotel entrance is such a stunning sight to see.

It was late when I arrived and was glad that the check-in process was quick and smooth. I was helped with my luggages and was given a mini-tour of the place then was escorted to my spacious room. The bed looked very inviting and I wanted to jump in right away but the big windows and terrace with the view of beautiful Parisian rooftops just gave me another pinch-me moment: that I was back in my favorite city.

I woke up after a really good night’s sleep, thanks to the very comfortable bed. Although it was overcast outside, I was finally able to see all the pretty details I missed the night before due to extreme fatigue from traveling. The room was bright and airy thanks to the large windows overlooking the Bastille neighborhood. The oak furniture complements the minimalist walls and hardwood floors. The Nespresso machine saved my morning as I get ready. The bathroom featured rainfall shower and toiletries from French cosmetic line Codage Paris.

Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet has 80 rooms and suites, 10 of which have terraces. Yes, I was pretty lucky to have stayed in one of those ten, and had a little lounge area which I can imagine will be more pleasant on a clear and warmer day. There are two Signature Suites that were beautifully designed by the creative architecture students of École Boulle.

One of the loviest spots in the whole hotel is the minimalist retro style indoor pool. Despite being in the lower ground floor, it features natural light. I didn’t had the time to personally use it but the counter current pool heated at 29ºC is definitely a reason to go back to. They also have a fitness room, sauna, hammam, and sensory shower and features products by Codage Paris.

Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet is located in the center of Paris, in Bastille, a “real” Parisian neighborhood away from busy touristy areas but close enough to explore during the day. This district is home is considered one the the most energetic areas in the city, with lovely tradional bistros and restaurants, vibrant bars and avant-garde art spaces. Place de la Bastille, Place des Vosges, and the very instagram-worth Rue Cremieux are all approximately 1.5 km away. The property is also only a 2-minute walk to Faidherbe Chaligny Metro stop on line 8 which can take you to the city center in minutes.

With so many hotels in Paris, this one truly has a unique character. I definitely recommend it to those who would like to experience a traditional Parisian neighborhood in the heart of the city.

Special thanks to Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet for hosting my stay. As always, all photographs and opinions are my own.