A Peaceful Stay Just Outside Paris
As someone over 60, I’ve stayed in all kinds of places over the years—from quirky little hotels in Miami to peaceful cabin stays in California’s mountains.
But this recent trip to Paris? It came with a delightful twist. We booked a stay at The Royal Regency Paris Vincennes, thanks to our timeshare, and honestly, I now understand why it’s so hard to get in.
I’ve stayed in fancier places, sure—but this one? It felt like a little Parisian nostalgia trip, tucked in a peaceful corner just outside the city.
📍 Good Location in a Residential Area
The entire property is part of a well-kept residential place in Vincennes, on the outskirts of Paris, and it’s a gem if you’re looking to escape the city noise but still want easy access to the action. From the Royal Regency, it was just a short walk to public transport, making it easy to get into central Paris for sightseeing and shopping.
We stayed in a quiet neighborhood, where mornings were filled with birds chirping, not blaring horns. And best of all? There’s an artisan bakery and a small market within walking distance. We stopped by numerous occasions for fresh bread, fruit, or something sweet.
🛏️ Like a Mini Apartment
There were three of us, and our unit felt like a spacious room you’d find in a well-furnished city apartment. We stayed on one of the upper floors, and while there’s no Eiffel Tower view, the vibe was peaceful and relaxed.
Our fully-equipped kitchen had a fridge, utensils, a stovetop, and a coffee/tea kettle. We didn’t cook (because hello—we’re in France!), but we kept the fridge stocked with juice and snacks. It was handy and made the whole experience feel like home.
🧺 What Worked and What Didn’t
Let’s talk about the free WiFi. Yes, it’s free. No, it’s not blazing fast. It worked for checking emails and browsing, but streaming or working remotely? Not so much.
They also offer a washer and dryer, which is a nice bonus, especially for longer stays. Just keep in mind, it’s pay-to-use and only available during certain hours, so it’s not a 24/7 setup.
🌆 Nearby Attractions and Peaceful Vibes
One of the best parts of staying at Royal Regency was being so close to Bois de Vincennes, one of the largest parks near Paris. You’ll also find Château de Vincennes nearby, which is rich in history and totally worth a visit.
Getting around was simple, and the easy rail access meant we could pop into the city and still come back to a calm, relaxing place. It was the perfect balance.
✔️ What I Loved:
- Good location in a quiet residential area
- Spacious room with all the essentials
- Fully-equipped kitchen—even if we didn’t cook
- Comfortable pull-out bed
- Patio and fresh air
- Bakery and market nearby
- Felt like a cozy apartment
- Great base for a nostalgia trip to Paris
❌ A Few Downsides (But Not Dealbreakers)
- Free WiFi could use a speed boost
- Washer and dryer access is limited by time
- Bedroom space was a bit tight
If you’re looking for a low-key, affordable, and comfortable place to stay while exploring Paris, and especially if you’re over 60 like me, The Royal Regency offers just what you need. It’s not flashy, but it has charm. You’ll feel like you’re living in Paris, not just visiting.
We’ve used our timeshare for years, and on this trip, I was reminded of why we keep at it. It is work trying to book The Royal Regency, but once you’re here? You’ll see why it’s worth it.
Now, this isn’t a high-end resort with a spa or full business center, but that’s not why you come here. The beauty of Royal Regency is in its simplicity, comfort, and those peaceful neighborhood vibes that let you truly unwind.