Some hotels hook me the moment I begin researching, and Hotel Eldorado was one of them. As I searched for a place to stay in Paris, I let myself imagine new neighborhoods and fresh experiences. I knew I didn’t want to stay near the Louvre again - I’d already done Hotel du Louvre and The Hoxton Paris - and I needed to be near a train line for my Versailles bike tour. More than anything, I wanted to explore a part of Paris I hadn’t experienced before. When Hotel Eldorado, a Mr & Mrs Smith property, appeared in my search, it immediately intrigued me. After comparing it with another spot farther out, the choice became obvious: this was my top pick.
There’s something special about the anticipation before a flight – the quiet hope for a smooth journey, the excitement of what awaits, and the simple wish that you won’t end up seated next to someone unbearable. You cross your fingers for good energy, good company, and a good time.
Unfortunately, my Air France flight tested every ounce of my patience. I sat next to a sick person in the middle seat with questionable choices about personal space – with her crap overflowing on me. Someone else kept farting during the flight – testing my patience in finding clean air to breathe. The overall discomfort of the ride left me desperate for calm.
Arriving at Charles de Gaulle should have been a relief, but instead I ended up in a confusing and frustrating interaction with airport police deciding to question me and go through my stuff – just as I was trying to find my Bolt driver. Apparently, some male officers struggle to believe that a woman might visit Paris to see Versailles and do a food tour before spending half a month in Morocco. For that particular individual, I hope you have the karmic affected life you deserve.
By the time I stepped outside and into my Bolt, I knew I needed something – anything – to shift my mood before I swore off Paris again for a decade.
Checking In
The drive was smooth, with minor traffic. And by the time my Bolt driver dropped me off and I walked the few steps to Hotel Eldorado Paris, I looked at the building and instantly thought, “yes.”
But it was the moment a kind front desk host spotted me, opened the door, and warmly welcomed me inside that I knew without hesitation, “I made the right choice.”
Hotel Eldorado is stunning – vintage, joyful Paris, wrapped in rich wallpaper, thoughtful details, and beautifully curated interiors. And, most charming of all, check in comes with an actual room key, complete with a tassel.
It’s the little things that make a place unforgettable.
Room and Stay
After check in, my check in host led me to the elevator and introduced me to my room.
Immediately, I realized that the photos didn’t do it justice. Also, the room had the two beds that I requested – but was much smaller than I thought it would be. But, even though the two beds were pushed together, in practice, it was perfect. Amy and I both had our distinctive sides that allowed us privacy and sleep boundaries.
But the room design? I LOVED IT. It gave French countryside meets Paris vintage chic.
Because an upgrade wasn’t available with my two bed mandate, my host confirmed that the hotel, instead, prioritized my view. And the view was – beautiful. I looked looking down upon the street, seeing the gorgeous sunset over Paris and life. It reminded me of my room at The Hoxton Rome, as I’d overlooked the garden. There’s something grounding about looking out and seeing – life.
The bathroom was delicious. There were two sinks, which allowed both Amy and I to have our individual set ups. The water closet was had it’s own door. And the shower – I swear I was born anew under the hot shower and deliciously beautiful tuberose bath products.
Dining at Hotel Eldorado Paris
As my rate included breakfast, I appreciated it - greatly. (Breakfast at the Hotel Eldorado Paris) This came in clutch as Amy and I enjoyed our meal before meeting up with our Versalles biking group (A Day in Versailles: A Train Ride from Paris, Touring Outdoor Markets and Bicycling Around Versailles).
Plus, when I asked for a substitution instead of eggs in my continental breakfast, they happily supplied me with the avocado toast with salmon. This was perfect. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize that it came with a poached egg. But, Amy happily took it.
Later, as a nightcap, I enjoyed a truly beautiful Aviation Martini in the hotel bar, as a very talented musician played on the piano. As Amy and I shared macaroons I’d purchase during my No Diet Club: Night Food Tour of Montmartre, I was so deeply pleased that she’d said yes to meeting me in Paris before I continued to Morocco.
Overall
There is something to be said about the little things. The stunning red roses at the check in desk. The front desk host who, at 4:15 am, walked outside with me, searched for my Uber, confirmed the driver was actually where the app claimed, waved him over, and then opened the car door with a gentle wish for a safe journey.
This is French hospitality at its finest. It reminded me of my last moments at Hotel du Louvre, being cared for with a level of grace, professionalism, and kindness that makes you feel seen and protected.
This is what I come to Paris for: to feel cared for, to breathe deeply, and to feel myself again. And that is why I loved my stay at Hotel Eldorado Paris.
And on the way to the airport, I upgraded my seat on my Air France flight to Casablanca – and had a much better experience on my flight to Africa.
Hotel Eldorado Paris
18 Rue des Dames, 75017 Paris, France75017, Paris France
