Any of you who have flown over to Paris only to end up at the airport at some early morning hour know how important it is to get firmly, easily and quickly ensconced in your lodging. After a long flight, and a 90-minute taxi ride in traffic from CDG, I was more than ready for a shower, a coffee, and beginning the day here in Paris. (Ok, a quick nap was also on the agenda, but not enough to disturb my eventual night's sleep.)
The Hotel Sofitel at La Defense welcomed me, got me in my room, which is lovely, and even gifted me with a few freshly-baked pastries to take up with me. Here are a few highlights:
- The staff - They're very friendly, speak English, and are willing to indulge me in my French.
- The shower with rainforest head and handshower, Hermes bath products, and ample, fluffy towels
- The room is modern, stylish and well-equipped. No iron, but that was easily remedied with a call to the Front Desk. They also have 24 hour pressing/steaming of your clothes if you're feeling a bit lazy.
- Room service was also, friendly, and the food quick and tasty.
- While pulling up in a taxi makes you feel like you're in 'Escape From New York', once you surface you will find yourself smack in the middle of La Defense, with views of the arch, the Arc de Triomph, and even the Eiffel Tower...albeit way in the distance.
- You are right at the metro station Esplanade de La Defense on the 1 line, ready to zip you into the center of Paris in minutes.
I'll be leading a meeting here tomorrow, and if I learn anything contrary about the conference service experience, I'll update this review. If you see no update, it was all good...no defense necessary. read more