5 star hotels in France

An exceptional hotel in every way. The location is perfect, the staff are amazing and genuinely helpful, and the atmosphere is truly unmatched. Beautiful ambiance throughout and a great spa that made the stay even more special. I honestly believe this is the best hotel I’ve stayed at in Paris. Highly recommended!

We loved it! Small, beautifully furnished hotel, 200m from the Moulin Rouge in Montmartre. Quiet, with lovely staff and really good service. Food and drinks were superb. Nice little spa with pool and steam room which you book up for your own private use. Montmartre is a great little 'villagey' area to stay in and Maison Souquet is a superb hotel in it.

My husband and I stayed for 3 nights. Maison Souquet is a truly personal hôtel which offers guests a feeling of intimacy whilst respecting privacy. Our bedroom was sumptous and elegant, the reception areas reflect the ambiance, romance and style of the belle epoch, the staff are very attentive, and the atmosphere one of seductive luxury. The opportunity for each couple to use the spa & pool in private...

Amazing evening spent playing backgammon and drinking cocktails at that place! The staff is so prompt, the flavors are amazing, the ambiance really relaxing. I love the smell the of the place. We were done with a project. And it was a great way to relax ! Thank you

Everything about this hotel was absolutely perfect. The rooms were beautiful, the food and drinks were excellent, and the history of the building itself is incredibly interesting. The service was impeccable, and it is very clear that the owner puts so much care and attention in every detail- everything has a personal touch coupled with elegance and style. Highly highly recommend this hotel, my favourite...

We extended our stay by one day and were looking for a hotel in the Montmartre area. Maison Souquet was on our list, so we decided on a spontaneous stay here. Angélique was incredibly helpful and made us feel right at home. She even upgraded us to a bigger room. The rooms all have a story to tell, and the building is full of history. All in all, it was a wonderful experience. We will definitely be...

A wonderful hotel ! The location is amazing and the staff very kind and professional. Very welcoming and pleasant room service, valet parking, shuttle van, reception, concierge, restaurants … A special mention to the fantastic SPA

This was everything we wanted from a Christmas ski trip and 10x more. It has such a luxury feel, with superbly clean, detailed and cosy Christmas rooms. We’re spoilt for service in Dubai, but the staff at Le Lana are better even than the best hotels in dubai. The location was perfect, you’re able to jump onto the slope from the hotel, even the staff helping to get you into your boots and skis! Really...

Excellent in every aspect for sky fanatics: * Location and access to slopes! * Christophe: butler who takes your ski boots and puts everything away for you. * Food and wine, at breakfast and dinner superb * Spa and facilities are so great! * Suites are very cozy, woody and modern at the same time.

Had lunch at the restaurant outside on a beautiful day and the food was delicious. The staff is also very nice and helpful.

i love la lana but i don’t like how under 18s can’t stay at the pool after 6! I get it if they are being silly and disturbing the peace, but kicking out a peaceful teenager for doing nothing wrong is really bad!

This hotel has an amazing location in the villiage as well as being ski in ski out and having the most helpful guy to fit your ski boots.

Check-in: Flawless. I was met at my taxi by a porter, ushered inside to the desk, and after a brief exchange of documents I was brought to the bar for a complimentary glass of champagne and small cookies. A quick tour of my room by the staff followed. (My luggage, which I never touched leaving the car, was magically deposited in my room upon arrival. (5/5) Room: Beautiful with modern amenities...

First impressions really count for any stay and from the moment I arrived I knew I would like this place. I’m a bit precious about my car so safe parking is usually the first thing that needs to be negotiated. The friendliest valet (may not be his job title) greeted me and totally put me at ease. Perfect blend of professionalism and relaxed. Check in was slick with a glass of champagne with cookies...

From the moment we pulled up, the service was impeccable: the bell team met the car with perfect timing, took our luggage, and made everything feel effortless. That level of warmth and precision never wavered for a second. We received a wonderful French welcome (and great Virtuoso perks, including Champagne on arrival). Our suite was beautiful and genuinely comfortable, with panoramic views in a historic...

From the reception, through the bar, to the restaurant, anyone who visits this wonderful little castle will have an unforgettable experience. Guests are welcomed with great love, the wine and champagne selection in the bar is of record quantity and super quality. The Bar la Rotonde offers a large selection of 1000 types of champagne and 3300 types of wine. My room was wonderful and clean, the bed was...

From the moment we arrived to the moment we left: A fantastic experience! The friendliness of the staff is exceptional, the room was perfect (super clean, comfortable bed, lovely view over the park), the breakfast sets a new level for breakfast quality and the bar is a place where you can sit an entire evening, enjoy fantastic wine and just enjoy life. They truly understand how to turn a few days...

This is the hotel to be in Reims. Although on the outskirts of Reims it is still only 15 minutes by car from old town center. Build at the end of the XIX century by the Pommery family as a private home sorrounded by 70000 m2 of garden, its transformation in a top quality hotel has been perfect. It is elegant, classic and feels as home. We had a Prestige room on the second floor of the main house...

The hotel is wonderful - small and friendly, great location and excellent service. The American Bar is a lovely place for a pre/post dinner drink. The restaurant we love, classic French food, beautifully done but relaxed and informal. The wine list is about 3 inches thick and the choice incredible.

We stayed for two nights and could not think of a way the stay could have been improved (maybe sunshine?). The hotel team were so kind and generous with our family, and we didn’t want to eat anywhere else after breakfast on site or roast chicken at the Bistro for dinner. If you have the ability to stay here I can’t recommend it enough.

Personable and attentive staff. We really enjoyed our stay. Looking forward to booking a trip with my family.

The hotel is beautiful and in a great location. The staff are exceptional. We have stayed on many occasions and are looking forward to our next visit. The restaurant is also wonderful, and well worth a visit.

The hotel is beautiful and in a great location. The staff are exceptional. We have stayed on many occasions and are looking forward to our next visit. The restaurant is also wonderful, and well worth a visit.

everything was perfect, even if we had to go out to get to the breakfast room , but it was very nice

Our superior room was simply beautiful, spacious with its high ceilings, luxurious through the beautiful materials and lovely smelling, not to mention the spacious terrasse overlooking the pond.Discrete and professional staff, great food.

Beautiful premises, one night was not enough to enjoy everything. The rooms were comfortable and clean, with a lovely view over the marsh. We especially loved watching the sun rise and listening to all the birds in the early hours of the morning. The restaurant was excellent and the service professional and friendly. Some slight technical problems with booking on the website and with our checkout that...

Lovely day at the spa for a massage + lunch package. Location is excellent, staff is friendly, massage is done using Nuxe products. We loved it!

Excellent location, facility, staff and food! We absolutely loved every minute of our stay at Mas de la Fouque! Our room had a beautiful view of the pond , horses, birds and one of the most beautiful sundown we have ever seen! The staff was wonderful, and friendly (... with a special hello to permanent resident Marius - the parrot who is adorably entertaining). Our only regret is that we had planned...

Excellent location, facility, staff and food! We absolutely loved every minute of our stay at Mas de la Fouque! Our room had a beautiful view of the pond , horses, birds and one of the most beautiful sundown we have ever seen! The staff was wonderful, and friendly (... with a special hello to permanent resident Marius - the parrot who is adorably entertaining). Our only regret is that we had planned...

Incredible time at the hotel, enjoyed the spa and the restaurant and it was an incredible natural setting... must see hotel!

We stayed in a bungalow next to the main chateau in a massive room w/ badly dated finishes. The cost was something like €700 for the night, breakfast not included. We don’t mind spending money on accommodation but this felt like a clip job. I believe they are renovating the main chateau but for now the rooms are dated and uncomfortable.

Always a pleasure to come again to this establishment. Magnificent covered parking under huge trees, super classy chateau with the charm of the old days, but it’s maintained and kept fresh. The service is extremely professional and fast, the wine master always has good advises and some gem you didn’t hear about. It is classy all throughout, except maybe the waiters who could be given shirts instead...

Amazing service and staff was very nice. Loce this hotel.

We had the menu gastronomique on 25 july. I still dream about the food and the wine which was amazing. Can you please share the wines since we did not remember the names ❤️ mainly the wine with the fish as main course but also the wine with the red fish ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Your home away from home Truly a remarkable property and the 3 generations of family ownership is absolutely wonderful. They couldn't have made us feel any more welcome. My wife cried when she left because it felt like we were leaving long lost friends. If you have the opportunity, don't miss this enchanting place.

Beautiful hotel in one of the most fabulous cities in the world. Perfect for swimmers and golfers but a wonderful place to visit all year round. Furnishings terrific; restaurant splendid. Carcassone is a gem.

Lily was very helpful. When my tour of the castles was canceled, she found me a private driver who gave me a better tour than I planned.

The property is beautiful. The rooms are large and well appointed with coffee, tea ,robes and slippers. Breakfast was beautiful and the services was delightful. The spa are is quaint and a nice place to relax. You can walk to many restaurants and parking in convenient.

Beautiful room with lovely staff! Would go back to Tours just to stay here again!

The staff were fantastic and the location was great. Room was large in size.

Beautiful property and spacious suite. Staff couldn't have been more friendly and attentive. Great location!

Disappointing stay in a beautiful hotel The hotel was beautiful and in a great location. However A/C was not working. We addressed it with the front desk after our 1st night and they reassured us it would be fixed and setting adjusted so we could control it with a thermostat in our room. When we came to our room the 2nd evening the room was cool. But shortly after the air condition tuned off and the...

Everything was amazing, the staff were so helpful and friendly. Particular shout out to Adrion, who was just SO kind.

Everything was amazing, the staff were so helpful and friendly. Particular shout out to Adrion, who was just SO kind.

Ahh, a luxury hotel that takes care of its guests. We had a lovely 4 nite visit, delicious continetlal breakfast, quick room service and great 7 course birthday dinner. We really enjoyed ourselves inteh heart of the old quarter.

Great hotel, humorfull and smiling professionals stunning restaurant with great structure of tasty food. The gourmet restaurant is a temple of fine dinning The rooms are big, have a nice view andare very clean

Hotel Richer de Belleval This is a beautiful 300 year old mansion that has been converted into a boutique hotel and part of Relais & Chateau of which we are members. Unfortunately our experience was not the best and we were quite disappointed. First of all when booking we were advised that the hotel is in a pedestrian only area so we were told we would be given driving access instructions the day...

High quality accommodation in a traditional building in a good, central location; excellent staff service. Dining in Jardin des Sens was a superb experience in terms of food quality, setting and service.

The 3* restaurant is the main attraction but the hotel rooms are well appointed and comfortable. Our TV was not working and we did ask reception to fix but nothing happened. For 5* hotel, would have appreciated a Nespresso in room and additional toiletries (eg body lotion)

Best view location in Marseille! Staffs super friendly and helpful! Much better than most 5stars hotel chain! Lucky that we did not stay at Four Seasons Hotel this time and stay here! The room is superb and with a diamond water view of the sea! Look forward to the Michelin 3stars meal tomorrow! Highly recommended

Loved it Beautiful hotel. The views were gorgeous and the place was great.

I knew I was in for multi course seafood-focused meal and it was exceptional. One of the finest meals I’ve had and one of the best meals I had along the Cote D’Azur. Course after course was artfully plated and impeccably served. And it was all delicious. A three-star delight. The room was spare but stylish. Despite being a multi-star establishment it felt relaxed and understated. But if you have the...

Nice view of the sea but over priced for what they offer

Disclaimer: I’m not a big fan of fish and didn’t realize the set menu was literally all fish. If you love fish maybe you’d like this place better than me but my experience wasn’t great as I was hoping for more variety in the type of seafood they served. The dishes were just too ‘fishy’ for me as the chef specialized in smoked and cured fish. The location and service was fantastic, we had a really nice...

Stayed one night on our way from the Dordogne to Montpellier. Great location on the Tarn river. Not as boutique luxurious as we expected, and didn't have a lot of joie de vivre as there were few fellow guests. Comfortable large room overlooking the river. The restaurant wasn't open on the Tuesday that we were there. The receptionist suggested that we dine at the Grand Cafe le Pontie near the...

Tranquil Beautiful setting - highly recommended Rooms are more 4* than 5, but the view is one of the best. It is definitely the best hotel in the area. Not one for families with young children. Perfect for a couples break. Restaurant is lovely for evening meals.

What a delightful place. It truly is a peaceful reserve nestled outside the bustle of the town. Beautifully situated on the banks of the Tarn River, the owners and staff are universally friendly, helpful and kind. We got lost on our way there. Not only did they call to make sure my husband and I were okay, they asked the chef to stay to cook us a late dinner. The room was very clean. The patio, pool...

We really enjoyed our stay. The staff are very kind and helpful, giving us many good recommendations. The grounds are peaceful and perfect for a morning stroll. Julian the Sommelier gave us perfect wine recommendations and vineyards to visit. Beatrice at the front desk was very kind and gave us a great restaurant recommendation. We would love to come back for another stay.

Brilliant and would like to return if at all possible The grounds are large and well kept in perfect order The view is superb facing the river e

Amazing staff. They make you feel at home. They have knowledge of the place and recommend accordingly

wonderful hotel with classic but spacious rooms and bathrooms with full bath and separate shower. nice and clean. good bed’ nice sized swimming pool, small but ok sauna and steambath. big wirlpool

I never got to terms with Pau as a town - August is not the time to go I learnt - but the hotel is pleasant, and the staff at reception and in the restaurants are helpful, polite and efficient. On that basis I would happily come back to the hotel and recommend it.

A very nice hotel in a great location for exploring Pau. Our room was comfortable and well appointed, but didn't have a balcony and faced the car park, which was disappointing for a 5 star hotel. Also, the pool and spa area was advertised as open every day, but was closed on the Monday when we stayed, again disappointing. Plenty of car parking, either outside or in the underground garage, although...

Amazing hotel! Super spa, super service

I got room facing the garden, so the view is really nice.

We love the stay. We were upgraded to a room with the park view. Thank you very much. The room is modern, spacious, clean and comfortable.

What an incredible property , everything is just perfect , location , service , decor and the fact it's only 11 rooms makes one feel at home . The rooms , beds , shower....a delight . The only 2 minor comments , there's no lobby so the bar ends up being the place to sit but it's such a popular address for mainly business people it ends up being full every afternoon so unless you reserve a table you...

Maison villeroy was amazing. Luxurious and the staff was very attentive and went above and beyond. You felt like you had the entire hotel to yourself. The wine bar is exceptional and we dined at the restaurant and it was our best meal in Paris. The spa with the sauna and dedicated booking times so you had the facility to yourself was exquisite. This small boutique hotel hands down beats the ritz...

It was a true pleasure assisting with the booking for my manager. From the very beginning, the team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail, with thoughtful and seamless communication throughout the process. I’ve heard wonderful feedback about the stay itself—an experience marked by comfort, elegance, and genuine hospitality. We would be delighted to return and stay...

We had a great experience from start to finish. Everything felt very well curated, from the breakfast to the room itself. The complimentary snacks in the room were a really nice touch and added to the feeling of being genuinely welcomed. The hotel has a small spa and gym, which are both very well maintained and perfect for a relaxing stay. Breakfast was excellent, with a good variety of quality options...

Interior is exceptionally excellent and clean including the restaurant. More important point is the friendly and well organized butler team. And it is strange that I feel like that I am at home.インテリアは素晴らしく、レストランも良い雰囲気でした。それよりも素晴らしかったのはバトラーチーム。対応もフレンドリーできちんと行なってくれました。加えてまるでうちにいるような気にもなりました。

Luxury hotel in the heart of Paris. Amazing service, large, clean and modern rooms. If you like quiet luxury, this is Maison Villeroy.

Staying at Hotel Raphael in Paris is like stepping into a world where the art of hospitality is practiced with effortless grace, reminiscent of the old-school ways where excellence was simply the norm. From the moment you enter, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere that whispers attention to detail and charms without pretense or fuss. The service at Hotel Raphael embodies this seamless elegance. It’s...

Stayed on 30th September for a night. From the helpful staff to the beautiful decor, It is simply an amazing place to stay. Treat yourself to a truly Parisian experience. This is a wonderful memory as we return from our European holiday

If you are looking for a hotel in one of the most prestigious areas of Paris, you can stop your search if you are reading this review. Hôtel Raphael is an incredibly beautiful and historic hotel with an amazing and attentive staff. If your stay in Paris needs to be special, this is the place. We stayed in room 608 and it was incredible. The size of the suite is that is a nice apartment in Paris and...

The door cannot be locked, the things are relatively old, the elderly man with glasses at the concierge at the front desk is very nice.

So after visiting I think a lot of these reviews are fake. I have recently returned from our trip and although it was pleasant it is in no way representative of the true experience of the hotel. Firstly we tried to book an Eiffel Tower view room as it was my birthday, we were refused as we had a toddler with us which was fair enough, my husband tried to arrange a breakfast or birthday meal on the rooftop...

A good classic property, rare in Paris. Large rooms and bathrooms. Very good staff. The restaurant and food could use improvement

Not only is the property very beautiful but more importantly the staff are excellent. They were very helpful in dealing with some issues in the booking and so very friendly. Highly recommend this hotel if you are in or near Nimes.

We stayed just one night here en route to Paris. I wish we had had a few more days to enjoy this unique space. The hotel is beautiful, and the garden is indeed an exceptional space right in the middle of the city. We took a dip in the pool and enjoyed a lovely breakfast. They really make your stay personal and exceptional. We've stayed in hotels at double the cost, and they fail by comparison in value...

The hotel was spectacular and the service more than excelent and the owners very charming. My family loved it.

I’m absolutely in love with this place. This hotel has a soul — full of charm, elegance, and character. Every corner tells a story, with thoughtfully curated antiques and refined taste. I must have taken hundreds of photos — the details are simply mesmerizing. It’s a true embodiment of the French spirit, authentic and full of atmosphere. A magical experience. Highly, highly recommend.

A spectacularly beautiful establishment full of charm and curated antiques. We loved our stay at Jardins Secrets, it is indeed a unique and special place for pure relaxation at the heart of Nîmes. We are a family of four with a little doggie and initially booked the family room but the charming Victoria who greeted us at reception advised that since we had 2 adult daughters it would be more comfortable...

Absolutely deserves the 5 stars. Unique boutique hotel with a personal approach and massive attention to detail. It is history made modern and comfortable. The rooms are large and spacious, and every common area is an art. Yes, many items are everywhere so that it can be challenging with kids. The staff is accommodating and polite, and at the same time, they are natural and casual. Victoria is the...

The breakfast offering was very limited and of poor quality

The room was beautiful and ideally located just steps from the Champs-Élysées. The staff was truly outstanding warm, attentive, and incredibly professional. Our experience was exceptional, and we will absolutely be staying here again on our next visit.

Best staff in Paris. Amazing and spacious rooms. Highly recommend

The hotel was lovely and the staff were excellent. Very happy to help with anything we needed.

I would stay here again! The staff was accommodating and courteous. The property was conveniently and centrally located to everything we needed. I had a wonderful time here!

We had a really pleasurable stay.. it’s a lovely hotel and we hope to come again!

The hotel was lovely, made all the more special by the ubiquitous Charlotte. She went above and beyond to make sure our stay was an enjoyable one.

Really rondel service I. This small boutique hotel. Breakfast was delicious and worth the extra. Would highly recommend.

Tout était parfait, de l’accueil, à la chambre, aux petit-déjeuners, aux repas à Mademoiselle Folie, etc… 3 jours de repos et de bienveillance dans un cocon magnifique, grâce à vous. Un grand merci. Je ne peux vous dire qu’à bientôt.

I have been staying there many years, and the proprietors always make me feel at home. The hotel is carved out of a very old building with very modern arty upgrades.

From the moment we arrived through our departure, we felt welcomed and cared for. Charlotte was a great help throughout our stay and gave us a wonderful recommendation for dinner. Marcel, the hotel mascot, was a bonus treat. Our room was lovely and the location was fabulous. We couldn’t recommend the Petit Hotel Confidential enough!

A real gem!! This Hotel went FAR beyond expectations- The sauna /spa is extraordinary- a real treat. If you’re driving into the hotel make sure you follow the entrance instructions. The restaurant and bar are “petite” and positively delightful. Can we give a 6th star????

We expecting a more Professional behaviour from the reception. We asked politely (we didn’t demand) to have a late check out at 14.00. The night manager said was not possible . We could stay till 13.00. This was accepted from us as we understand this is upon availability. Next day at 11.30 we’ve been informed that late check out it is not possible and we need to go 12.00. We explained what we discussed...

A very nice hotel in a great location right in the heart of Paris. The rooms are well decorated, extremely comfortable, and the cleaning is excellent. The reception is very responsive. It's a great hotel for those who want to stay in a central location. The only downside is that the breakfast selection is a bit limited, and it would be great if there were more orthopedic pillows for those who suffer...

Great place to stay, my favorite one. In absolutely great location, amazing service, great rooms.

What a lovely boutique hotel just off the Siene in wonderful neighboorhood. The staff were excellent and caring. The room was generous and immaculate. Wonderful restaurants nearby. I would return and recommend..

This hotel is quaint and simple. The location makes this hotel. It's centrally located within all Paris has to offer. The amenities are limited.

I had an exceptional stay at this hotel. The check-in and check-out were smooth and welcoming. The Front Office Manager even greeted me personally from the car, already knowing my name and making me feel special. The Concierge team was outstanding. And, the most responsive and efficient I’ve experienced, always managing to secure reservations even on short notice. Truly exceptional service all around

Our focus was of course Restaurant Pic which we thoroughly enjoyed, and also delighted by the Bistro André, our beautiful room and amazing breakfast. Definitely worth the travel from London.

Our focus was of course Restaurant Pic which we thoroughly enjoyed, and also delighted by the Bistro André, our beautiful room and amazing breakfast. Definitely worth the travel from London.

The only issue I had was when checking out, we needed extra time because the enticing bath tub took forever to fill up. They wanted to charge £200 to extend one hour. They did eventually reverse that decision.

A relaxing, interlude to our trip into the Rhone valley. Very attentive staff who met our every need.

The hotel stay and restaurant visit was a first class experience. Extremely professional and very kind staff. Excellent quality of dinner and breakfast.

Fabulous stop on the way from The Neherlands to Spain. We booked the Pic Restaurant, to be amazed by the quality of the service, products and technique. Conveniently located near the city, but easily reachable from the highway. The Hotel was excellent too, although a Spa would have been lovely.

Very pleasant little hotel. Breakfast needs improvement.

The location is top, the hotel has its own private parking (very important when you’re en route!), the room is excellent as is the bed, and the staff are exceptionally friendly.

Best location , helpful staff specially Aminda who was very helpful to get us a nice taxi for fitting our luggage.i believe it’s very underrated for a five star with the spectacular rooms and central location ,maybe the abundant buffet breakfast is not there but the whole hotel including the spa staff are very collaborative to make a remarkable stay for you .there is a gallery inside the hotel which...

Room was very nice, but there are no real amenities, and their restaurant has been shut down, nice hotel, but definitely not a 5 star

Great and spacious rooms. Staff was incredibly helpful. I was going to meet a business partner in the lounge. Due to work in the area, the manager offered to provide a meeting room and coffee and tea on top!! Great hospitality. Quiet spot as well. Only comment: If you want guests to keep towels, please add a heater in the bathrooms, no one will be using wet towels from one day to the other, ;). Other...

I love this small boutique hotel. But their restaurant is closed and they offer breakfast in the foyer. But my suggestion is to go next door to the supermarket and buy some breakfast items. My fresh fruit platter was 5 grapes and 3 parts mandarin for €9. A small yoghurt cup for €4. See pictures. Not a 5-star hotel worthy.

Staff gracious and attentive. Chic design throughout. Located within walking distance of the incredible walled city and walkable and pleasurable Centre Ville and its surrounding streets and attractions. The hotel and Michelin rated restaurant is in a bit of an odd setting, with a low visibility exit, but an oasis nevertheless, The room, spacious, and visually beautifully designed, has a roomy...

We absolutely loved our stay at this hotel and didn’t want to leave. The staff is lovely and the rooms are very comfortable and luxe. We would stay here again.

Le Parc is an elegant hotel with really helpful staff. The attention to detail is truly amazing. All in all a lovely base for a short visit to lovely Carcassonne.

Breakfast was prepared to order with eggs, bacon, breads/croissants, fresh fruit, yogurt, muesli, etc. Relaxed setting on the terrace. Only 7 rooms. Felt very well taken care of. Extremely attentive staff. High quality in every sense.

Very helpful staff, especially the evening gentleman at the desk who went out of his way to help us. We thought the suite was beautifully decorated—very kool and artistic. The setting on the deck was wonderful. We only stayed one night but didn’t leave the hotel. Oh,yes, I forgot to mention the definite romantic vibe.

The staff were wonderful and helpful. The room was large and immaculately presented. Dinner in the evening was sublime. A thoroughly enjoyable stay and highly recommended