My husband and I have stayed here twice this year (for the Rolex Masters and then the Grand Prix) and hope to go back many more times. It is a great hotel, most notably:

• We love the refurbishment! The hotel has retained its elegant 1930s feel but with modern design elements that make it a very comfortable place to stay.
• We enjoyed that the hotel was outside the centre of Monaco; particularly when the Grand Prix was on, it felt like an oasis from the madness (particularly the pool) when we wanted to relax!
• We were made to feel most welcome; we were given flowers and champagne on our arrival for both our stays at the hotel. There were great La Prairie products in the bathroom too.
• Due to it being fairly small, we got to know the friendly staff and they went out of their way to provide good service.
• They have an excellent restaurant.

We have stayed at many of the world’s best hotels and it is rare that we have no criticisms. If we were really pushed, we would suggest that the shuttle bus could be run later (taxis are hard to come by after a night out). If you are hesitating about staying at this hotel then don’t. It has loads to offer, bags of charm and I would rather stay here any day than one of the larger, more central hotels of Monaco.

Most people don't realize that the Hermitage, Hotel de Paris, Monte Carlo Beach and Bay Hotels are owned by the same company. The company is quite savvy and has designed each property to suit different customer tastes...or so it was explained to me.

I had a standard sea view room (which, for a standard room) was fantastic- the view of the bay and principality was great. The room was very comfortable although a little dark.
At the front desk, the French-speaking staff was well-trained and extremely polite. The Italian-speaking staff was arrogant and off-putting.
The hotel is really a destination...they are booked 6 months in advance and they know it.
Good for a night or two to experience Monaco's nightlife...the adjacent outdoor club/bar is exquisite. Then again, Monaco is small!
One downside... the shuttle service between properties is unreliable and taxis can be impossible to get in Monaco...plan accordingly if you aren't willing to walk... and walk vigorously!

* Hotel did nothing that it promised - we were extremely let down by them, they do not respond to correspondence or return telephone calls, I would never book this hotel again.

I was really disappointed with my stay this year. I stayed 10 years ago and raved about going back. I finally got there and was so let down. The place hasnt been kept up, the paint is cracking, the bed covers are so old and faded. The staff were snooty, the breakfast and room service were pitiful. Hate to see it loose its charm but I wont go back. I had to go to the Monte Carlo Bay just to get a decent breakfast.
The view is still fantastic and so is the pool area but that is it.