5-star hotel guide to Paris
"A walk in Paris will provide lessons in history, beauty, and the point of Life." wrote Thomas Jefferson while he was US minister to France before the French Revolution in the 1780's. How prescient was he, as nowhere blends classical with contemporary quite like Paris.
But, if you think you know Paris, then think again. Paris holds its secrets behind its popular clichés. Yes, the baguettes are carried under arms, yes the men with obligatory moustaches smile at style as it breezes by in flats or stilettos. But why, why so smug? Well, perhaps with good reason.
Parisians have a right to be proud; their city contains some of the planet's finest architecture, museums and cuisine, with seventy Michelin-starred restaurants and ten achieving three Michelin stars – more than any other European destination. It's also the capital of haute couture, with flagship stores for some of the world’s most revered ateliers located in the Triangle d’Or, bordered by Avenue Montaigne, Avenue George V and the Champs-Elysées.
The city is equally blessed when it comes to hotels; look no further than the spectacular classical grandeur of Le Meurice in the 4th arrondissement, or the stylish petit-luxe La Tremoille and grand Hotel Plaza Athénée in the 8th, perfect for vistas of Gustave Eiffel’s mighty iron marvel.
But there is another side to Paris. We love to explore the Bohemian areas, such as the area around Montmatre and Pigalle, where not that long ago it wasn't only Le Moulin Rouge that suggested a racier side to the city. Today, this area delights for different reasons. The steps of beautiful Sacre Coeur still provide the most romantic view of the city but, close by, is the most enticing 5-star boutique hotel in all of Paris. Maison Souquet is the hottest hotel in town and its charms will be sure to seduce you.
Our latest trip to Paris was to review the impossibly impeccable La Réserve Paris in Avenue Gabriel, which is probably the most exclusive address in the city, complete with 2 Michelin starred restaurant, Gabriel. Sophie fell head over heels in love with this exquisite 5-star hotel with its pole position location and astonishing attention to detail..
Paris will delight in so many different ways. There is so much to do and see in this incredible city made from 20 'villages', each with its own style and all holding their own secrets, so choosing the right hotel is a very important decision. Let our concierge guide you, depending on your mood...