Our history in travel guides dates back to 1904, when the Baedeker guide mentioned Brasserie Paul, which at the time was part of the company’s hotel business. At that time, Baedeker was a major reference for European and Anglo-Saxon travelers seeking landmarks, itineraries, and recommended places to visit.
The restaurant would subsequently appear in several editions of the Michelin Red Guide. Beginning in the 1960s, the growth of American tourism in Europe accelerated thanks to guidebooks such as Fodor’s and Frommer’s, which allowed North American travelers to plan their trips with greater freedom.
In the 1980s, travel became more individual and more exploratory. The Guide du Routard highlighted independent hotels and unique destinations. Lonely Planet supported the rise of independent travel, while Moon Travel Guides focused on regional and less conventional itineraries.
Rick Steves, after all, holds a special place in our hearts. His audience is looking for exactly what the Hôtel Cardinal has to offer: a historic district that’s perfect for exploring on foot, a cozy, independent hotel on a human scale, and the rare experience of opening your window to a view of Rouen Cathedral.
