Review of Hotel du Bourg Tibourg, by Nadia Latif

Hotel du Bourg Tibourg in the heart of Le Marais doesn't rely on stereotypes, but nevertheless it is, without a doubt, small and perfectly formed. A delicious mix of Gothic decadence and Oriental exoticism, it is filled to bursting with antiquated furniture, plush velvet furnishings and arching stained glass windows. It is romantic and refined - the perfect place to whisk away a loved one for a naughty weekend in Paris.

Everything here is excess and indulgence. The fabrics, the furnishings, the hospitality - nothing has been scrimped on, to sumptuous effect. There's no restaurant or spa facilities - this is a hotel for those seeking a hideaway; it's all about the thirty bedrooms. That said, a great breakfast is provided each morning and the surrounding area is packed full of cosy cafes, restaurants and quirky boutiques.

Don't expect acres of space in the bedrooms. Do expect the same rich furnishings as the communal areas - Moroccan tiling in the bathrooms, copper washbasins, tasselled lampshades and the ubiquitous velvet bedspreads. Each room has a flatscreen television, DVD player and well-stocked minibar. Room service is available until 11.30pm, with light meals of the sandwich-and-salad type.