For the record, in 1962 Dr. Georges Sabatier, who was a figure in the cultural life of La Rochelle, purchased the building and carried out its restoration. The surgeon, a great collector, later adorned the residence with a series of unique African tribal artworks, from Latin America and the Pacific. Back in La Rochelle after living in India, his son picks up the torch. Michel and Beroze Sabatier then opened La Résidence des Indes with four guest rooms with distinctive and refined décor.

From northeast India to Burma

“We wanted to bring this hotel to life and open it to the people of La Rochelle and everyone who loves local culture and heritage”, explains Beroze Sabatier, the hostess. A unique place that encourages visitors to travel: the walls of La Résidence des Indes, which stretch over three levels, are thus decorated with many interesting antiquities from northeast India, but also from Thailand, China, Burma, etc. . A museum at the center is the tea room, both of which will reopen on August 23, 2022.

Assya Bednani runs the tea room at La Résidence des Indes. In the kitchen, she cooks homemade French and Moroccan pastries. At the start of the school year, the menu will expand: on tapas and Indian specialties to share. “We will open it later, so people who work can come at night to enjoy this place,” he announced. At programs, concerts and conferences, in the large living room and garden, also emphasize the life of La Résidence des Indes.