During my 8+ hour plane ride home from Paris last week, I was trying to compose my Trip Advisor review of the quintessentially top notch Astotel George, and I think / hope I've succeeded. I will liken my experience these past 3 weeks to a family reunion with 17 really great first cousins in attendance. Each cousin represents the lovely hotels associated with the Astotel chain; you're happy to be able to connect with each relative, just as you can have a 'relationship' with any of the hotels in the chain if you need to rest, snack, get info and more. But, we often have a favorite cousin, and it seems that George takes the 'choice hotel' honor time and time again. This boutique-style gem is run flawlessly, and the location is ideal. The metro line, Green 12, runs north - south through Paris, and has very convenient stops for exploring or transferring. But, what is most important is the "team," and the ever-present manager, Sonia. No, Sonia is not actually there 24/7, but her direction is always being felt, and that's a good thing. Sonia is everything, and to watch her with her team, one can only marvel at her guidance, patience, care and professionalism, no matter what the circumstances. When a staff member arrives for the day, Sonia asks how they are, and shows genuine care. When she is talking to clients, she is also observing the goings-on around her. She mixes warmth with command, and her workers feel comfortable and appreciated. Everyone treats guests as if they were part of their family. That's special. It feels like you're "home." In fact, I wrote a "poster" in large print and brought it to the reception one day, making sure other guests got to see it: "Ici, C'est Un Hômetel." In other words, this is a mix between home and away. The breakfasts lack nothing, and everything is delicious. Their lounge is like a living room where guests get to know each other and promise to keep in touch. The whole team deserves recognition. The receptionists.... Antoine, Ricardo, Sofiane, Kalden, Sam, André and Savoeun... were so engaging, and could not do enough for us. I miss them immensely. Adorable, warm Mariana in the breakfast room is amazing, as are the people who take care of the rooms... Adrienne, Roberte, Rokia, Hadja, Chantal, Charles and Himm. A former receptionist came back to visit on the same day a current employer was leaving for a short while, so Sonia had a full-staff Pizza and Dessert party. And every day was more of the same. Where else would you see this? Nowhere! I got a chance to speak with one of the lovely higher-ups, and she appreciated the ONE THING I told her could be different at George, the size of the garbage bins in the bathrooms! When my husband and I left, they were crying, we were crying, and I still am. What does all of this lead to? Don't look for a hotel, you found one. read more