The New Vieux Port Hotel is a prime example of how a little money, well spent, can go a very long way. Decorated with restraint, the rooms are comfortable and chic. The floor on which I was stayed features the “Ethnic” theme, with artwork and photographs far superior to the cheap prints you often see in hotels. The room did not feel strictly feng shui, due to the fact that the building is triangular (with the pointed end directed towards the port), but this is remedied by careful layout and clever use of the available space. My entire suite was immaculately clean and tidy, with soundproof windows to provide a welcome retreat from the hubbub of the city. I could see the bustling port from my window, making the New Vieux Port one of the most desirably located hotels in Marseille. Some practicalities: the beds were extremely comfortable, the TV worked perfectly (though I don't recall finding any channels in English), and I received several phone calls at no extra cost. There was a minibar in which I stored my own drinks rather than pay the typically high hotel prices. I didn’t have a chance to use the shower or hairdryer, but I did test the shower - which was part of a combined shower/bath - and could see that the water pressure was very good. The “petit dejeuner” with mini pastries and hot chocolate was more than enough for me, but I believe there was also a hot buffet available in the dining room. By way of explaining how much I appreciated the New Vieux Port Hotel, I must point out that I also stayed at a different hotel in Marseille for the two preceding nights. My first hotel, one of a large chain located near the Gare Saint Charles, was a glorified hostel: shamefully basic for the price, without personality or warmth. The room had no fridge, the bathroom was tiny, and the walls were institutionally bare. Going from that first hotel to the New Vieux Port (whose average nightly rate is only €18 more expensive) was like upgrading from a rowboat to a luxury cruise ship. The staff were welcoming and helpful, and I would not have hesitated to call upon them at any time of night, such was their level of warm professionalism. Finally, another personal note: during my stay in Marseille, I tripped and fell, hurting my face and arm and resulting in an afternoon spent in the hospital emergency department. I had left my luggage in the New Vieux Port Hotel that morning, so several of the staff saw the “before” and “after” of my injuries, and their concern was an enormous comfort, especially since I was travelling alone. They were a huge help to me; between connecting my sisters’ countless phone calls, helping me with my luggage, ordering me a taxi to the airport so I could cut my trip short the next morning, and leaving my breakfast outside the door. I know that all of these services are to be expected in a decent hotel, but the fact that I nearly resorted to phoning for help with tying my shoelaces says a lot about the professional welcome at the New Vieux Port Hotel. I would stay there again in a heartbeat.