Timhotel Invalides Eiffel

This hotel was like a mediocre bread basket delivered at a grade-B restaurant on the Italian coast; the location was great, the amenities were present, but something in your tastebuds was left unsatisfied by any fine, exquisite touch.

The elevator was a bit grim — faux cobblestone table mats lined the floor while the box itself could only fit one person and one bag (two people if squeeze).

The staff was super accommodating and lovely. On any given day, they helped me and my boyfriend practice our mediocre French or provide the sweet comfort of the English language when necessary.

Overall, it wasn’t the most glamorous place to spend Christmas week in Paris, but it certainly was a strong, solid choice to settle down at. 3 stars.