What's it like? The newly refurbished Renaissance hotel, one of the three Marriott-brand properties in Paris, offers both comfort and accessibility to the business district, the metro and the shopping mall Les Quatre Temps. The lobby has a contemporary look and a pleasant atmosphere, plus a comfortable seating area.
Where is it? In the heart of the business district, La Defense, the hotel is accessible by taxi or metro. If time is limited and you're booking a taxi with the concierge, make sure you allow at least 20 minutes for it to arrive as the area is very busy with traffic.
Room facilities: The hotel has 327 rooms and suites in four different categories, all equipped with air-conditioning, minibar, hairdryer, safe, satellite, TV, high-speed internet, video, radio and voicemail. The beds are very comfortable with soft feather pillows, and guests can use personalised stationery, bathrobes and slippers. Room service is available from 0600 until midnight and guests staying in corner business rooms, suites and rooms on the 10th floor have access to the club lounge where refreshments are served.
Business centre: Yes, in the conference centre. The hotel has 13 meeting rooms including seven conference rooms and six boardrooms holding up to 12 people. Internet use costs E15 per 24 hours.
Restaurants: La Brasserie Renaissance, designed in traditional Parisian style, offers a great view of the Grande Arche and serves delicious French cuisine. Le Californien serves international food and is often used for conference and meeting dinners and lunches. Bar Le Colonial is a good place for a drink and snacks and is open-air in the summer.
Fitness centre: There is a gym at reception level plus a steam room, sauna and spa bath.
Verdict: Great hotel, close to business amenities but beware the traffic.
Prices: From €195 for a deluxe room, excluding breakfast (€15.50).
Contact: Renaissance Paris Hotel La Defense, 60 Jardin de Valmy, Boulevard Circulaire, Sortie 7, Paris La Defense Cedex, Ile de France 92918, France, tel 33 1 4197 5050,www.marriott.com.
Rania Apthorpe
