Hôtel Beaunier (Paris, France)

All the basics are covered here, and you'll be close to public transport, shopping and restaurants. Set back a bit from the bustle, these are calm surroundings, kept clean and well-organised.

Sometimes served in the courtyard, the daily breakfast here is a lovely spread. You'll need to pay extra for it and let them know ahead of time if you'll be dining in for breakfast, but you won't regret the expense.

Although they are a bit on the small side, you can count on cleanliness, good showers, windows that open and adequate beds. Wi-Fi is hit or miss. Ask ahead about any special needs you may have.

Some enjoyed the staff and felt they were charming from arrival to departure; others found them rude and inefficient.

The lack of lifts might be a problem if you have heavy luggage or mobility issues. Staircases and hallways are narrow and tricky, and the lack of air conditioning may present issues for warmer weather visits. Apparently there are no fans available either. Be cautious if bringing expensive belongings with you - room keys must be left hanging on a board in reception whenever you leave the hotel, and for storage, luggage is kept in a space easily viewed (and, when staff is distracted, easily grabbed) from the street. Neither of these options provide sufficient security for precious items left unattended.

Thin walls and noisy neighbours caused some to lose sleep, even while wearing earplugs.