France Hotel, what to expect

Each region in France has unique characteristics, and owners of small hotels reflect these differences in their styles. Hotels we recommend can be very different from one to another, so we've tried to provide some basics to help you know what to expect from our recommended hotels in France.

Staff- While staying in smaller hotels in France you may find that very little English is spoken by the staff. They will always be very courteous and professional, but do not expect them to be overly chatty. You will not find a concierge in these unique properties since many are owner operated.

General Guidelines- Many small French hotels take reservations only by phone or fax, and success with email may vary. Most small hotels require a deposit to guarantee your reservation. Some are willing to charge your credit card, while others want a deposit mailed. Breakfast is not included in your room rate, but will be quoted with it. Typical check in time is after 3:00 PM and checkout is before 11:00 AM. At check in, many hotels will require your passport, some may even hold it during a portion of your stay.

Bathrooms- A typical French bathroom will have a toilet, sink, bidet and bathtub, though the toilet may be in a separate water closet. Enclosed showers are not very common in French bathrooms, but almost every bathtub will have a hand shower. The biggest question for you is how to use it without soaking the entire room, since there is rarely a shower curtain. The only positive here is that usually bathrooms are tiled from floor to ceiling and have plenty of towels.

Rooms- Since we search for hotels with charm, this category can really vary by hotel. We look for rooms that have things like antiques, wood beamed ceilings, traditional French furniture, provincial fabrics or rooms that are well appointed with modern classics. A typical room will either have a queen bed or two twins which can be put together and made up as one. Your room will have all the typical amenities such as TV, telephone, luggage rack or closet, etc. If you plan to travel in the heat of summer, you'll want air conditioning.

Breakfast- Breakfast will be simple, filling, delicious, but not cheap. A typical hotel will serve breakfast in their restaurant or in a small breakfast room. Your breakfast will be served to you, unlike many other European countries that prefer a buffet. You can expect your choice of black coffee, cafe au lait (with milk) or hot chocolate and a glass of orange juice. You will be served a fresh croissant and a bread basket with jam. The price for this breakfast ranges from $7-$15 per person.

Dinner- Many hotels have a restaurant, which may be only open for dinner on select nights. Dinner is served from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. The restaurant can vary from regional cuisine to a 5 star gastronomic event. If you are unsure, the menu is always posted outside and has prices listed, but is rarely in English. There is often a fixed price menu. For one price, you can pick an item from each course. Many hotels offer a demi-pension price which includes your room, breakfast and one other meal per day. This can be a substantial savings if you plan to eat at your hotel each evening.

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What to expect from hotels in France