What takes me back to the Dauphin for my business trips to the Puteaux suburb of Paris is the standard of excellence in personalized service set by the Director, Philippe GONTHIER. Even as he prepares to open another property in central Paris, his advice and employ of the best hoteliers is evident. Thank you Michael and Catherine! It is no wonder that the Dauphin is featured in the Eurostar in-train magazine. Its value is extreme. Set in the heart of Puteaux, it is a stone’s throw from the city square, 10 minutes’ walk from the Esplanade Metro of Line 1 and 3 blocks from the Puteaux Velibe’ station(think public bicycles for rent at 1 euro per day with stations all over Paris). Two buildings surround a central courtyard garden which is an elegant spot for a private evening apéritif with colleagues or friends. The classy lobby features daily newspapers from at least 10 countries and languages(besides Paris’ own), and a jumbo wall television if you prefer to watch the world cup match in a quiet roar with your fellow guests. In the morning, the scene changes with a buffet of fresh croissant, danish, ham and cheese, dried and fresh fruit, fresh juices, bottled water, and a self-serve espresso machine. This last trip, I got a peek at the remodel model room. Hardwood floors and sheik tiled and lighted bathrooms will be the norm. I can’t wait! –Wi-Fi permeates the hotel, but can be sketchy in the back building. –Courtyard lighting was under repair this visit, but concierge accompanied me up the steps with a torch flashlight. Nice! –Scented oil(your choice from five) and classical music greets your room entry. –Air Conditioning(Climatization) and Heat in every room. –Room service selections are limited, but with no restaurant to support are mostly for those who are just too tired to venture out to sample the city’s culinary delights. Venture forth! –Rooms are extremely small by American standards, but so goes the price. Remember, you are in Europe! –as with most cottage hotels, due to the rooms’ proximity and size you can hear the comings, goings and goings-on of your neighbors –beds are a bit«springey» for my bad back, but pillows are plush; how about featherbeds? –some towels are a bit rough and need replacing