Mama Shelter

Mama Shelter review

Nowadays a growing number of hoteliers are filling the budget market with good value accommodation that looks smart, feels comfortable and is full of mod cons. The newest of two excellent budget addresses to hit the scene in 2008, Mama Shelter may sound like a refuge for overstressed Italian mums, but the hotel - owned by Club Med founders the Trigano family and philosopher Cyril Aouizerate - is in fact Philippe Starck's latest design commission.

It's set a stone's throw east of Père Lachaise, and its decor appeals to the young-at-heart with Batman and Incredible Hulk light fittings, dark walls, polished wood and splashes of bright fabrics. Every room comes with an iMac computer, TV, free internet access and a CD and DVD player (there's even a kettle in some rooms - something even French four-stars don't usually provide); and when hunger strikes, there's a brasserie with a romantic terrace. If you're sure of your dates, book online and take advantage of the saver's rate, which is non-exchangeable and non-refundable, but guarantees the lowest price.