By Aulia R. Sungkar (published in the Jakarta Post/JPlus on Feb.28, 2016).
Operated by Accor and occupying eight stories, this five-star contemporary hotel exudes a minimalist feel and an art-themed ambience. Launched in 1989, the Pullman Toulouse Centre underwent renovation in 2004.
What’s it like?
Entering the lobby, my eyes were directed toward a beautiful array of contemporary paintings and photographs. Many were colorful and abstract. Noteworthy were the works of Dominique Viet, a local artist known for creating poetry with shapes and colors. Decor is minimalist, trendy and stylish, reflected in the simple sofas and benches in the lobby. Receptionists are friendly, reflecting the best of French hospitality.
Where is it?
The hotel’s location is one great advantage for those seeking a convenient city tour. In the heart of Toulouse, the Pullman is within walking distance of several historic sites, such as the Place du Capitole main square, the Gare de Toulouse-Matabiau railway station and the Basilica of St. Sernin.
The hotel’s rooms and suites are decorated in two-tone brown and ecru with accents blending orange, yellow and light gold. Colors are well designed for the elegant setting, which matches the minimalist interior design. Each room boasts a contemporary painting. In the deluxe room I stayed in, a window faced the main street,
affording a view of fascinating old buildings.
Room Rundown
Choices include 28-squaremeter superior rooms with a choice of a king-size or twin beds; a 25-square-meter classic room with queen-size bed; a 30-square-meter deluxe
room with king-size bed, and 60-square-meter deluxe suites, featuring two rooms and kingsize beds. Aside from complimentary bottled water, tea and coffee making facilities; rooms are equipped with safes, walk-in rain showers and separate toilets. Deluxe suites feature bathrooms with tubs and separate showers. Rooms also come with 32” televisions and desks, while suites allow you to relax in front of a 40” television or enjoy quality sounding music from BOSE docking stations. Rooms are no smoking and come with free high-speed Wi-Fi.
The hotel’s SW Restaurant serves a complimentary breakfast for guests. Offering bistronomy, or French casual fare, the restaurant is open for lunch from noon to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Opposite the restaurant is the SW Lounge, which is open from 7a.m. to midnight. Guests can enjoy a choice of cocktails from the
bartender. On one late afternoon, I had a light bite paired with a couple of glasses of Sauvignon Blanc in a comfortable armchair. The laid-back ambience is fit
for me-time. In the evening, the lounge features live jazz music.
Down to business
The second floor is home to the hotel’s business center and meeting facilities. Occupying the entire floor, the facilities boast hightech equipment and sa pace that
can be converted into up to nine private rooms accommodating anywhere from 12 to 180 people, in addition to existing rooms. It’s an ideal venue for organizing
large business gatherings, such as seminar, workshop or convention. There is a dining room that can also be converted into a private area, offering a choice of buffet or a
la carte service.
Take five
The fitness center, while not big, is well equipped with treadmills, exercise bikes, weights and dumbbells.
View
Hotel Pullman Toulouse Centre differs from other Pullman hotels, especially those in Jakarta. While small, the hotel is vibrant and worthy of its status. This can be felt in the hotel’s warm hospitality, comfortable furniture and beds, and interior setting. Above all, this is a strategic hotel where all the city’s amenities and attractions are
within range.
Highlights
Located in the heart of the city. Excellent business
facilities.
Rooms
The hotel features 119 rooms, including 6 deluxe suites, with the remainder given over to superior rooms, classic rooms, deluxe rooms.
Price
Rates start at US$178
Contact
Hotel Pullman Toulouse Centre, 84, allées Jean Jaurès, 31000 Toulouse, France Telp:+33 5 6110 2310, pullmanhotels.com
✓ Free Wi-fi
✓ French restaurant
✓ Bar
✓ Fitness center
✓ Business center
✓ 13 meeting rooms