Guest Houses and Parisian Bed & Breakfast

The number of Chambres d’hôtes has doubled in two years, now reaching 600 establishments, but the City of Paris aims to reach the one thousand mark. Since 2007, an official charter called “Paris Quality Hosts” sets out service guidelines that require these particulars: a minimum surface area, at least one window, criteria for cleanliness and a certain level of comfort. These common sense rules have been inspired by the ‘Gîtes de France’ scheme. The reception must be welcoming and conducive to friendly interactions. We can attest that this is very much the case (see our article.) Not all Parisians are stressed out urbanites waiting to tread on their fellow man on the Metro. On the contrary, these charming hosts love their city, know their district by heart and will recommend the best restaurant, the best bakery, and have all kinds of tips for making the most of your stay in the French capital.  Chambre d’hôtes are also a blessing for conference delegates who, after an exhausting day of exhibition halls, find real human contact when the evening comes. They are often excellent value for money, especially for families (around 80-90 € per night.) Visitors to France are not wrong and they are increasingly numerous in voting in favour of this option.