We’ll Always Have Paris…
Paris need no introduction and no explanation - it exists sui generis - a place of such style and romance that it defies all attempts to define it. Above all else, Paris is a city built for walking, and one of life's great joys is to spend a weekend exploring it with someone you love - but first you need to parse through the bewildering array of options for an appropriate place to rest your head. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you and distilled it down to our three top choices - because, really, how many more than that do you need?
Palace Hotels
Le Royale Monceau
The great palace hotels of Paris are legendary temples of style and indulgence, and each has its own distinctive character—the art lies in finding the one that matches yours. prefer discrete side streets over grand avenues, I have a weakness for contemporary flair over period details, and I love whimsy and humour over formality and etiquette. I am almost religious in my avoidance of the chain hotels, no matter how high end, but I have to confess that the grand hotel that fits me like a glove in Paris is Le Royal Monceau. Yes, it is a Raffles property, but it is utterly original, from its gorgeous rooms that feel ready to be lived in to its airy and colourful public spaces, with the inimitable wit of designer Philippe Stark working its way into every thoughtful detail.
Small Luxury Hotels
Pavillon de la Reine
The search for the perfect small luxury hotel in Paris is a Sisyphean task, for as soon as one finds the answer, 10 more potential candidates have sprung from the ground. Still, one must try, and my current candidate is Le Pavillon de La Reine. It is a veritable oasis of calm amidst the bustle of Paris, a secret ivy-clad world hidden off a discrete passage in the perfectly proportioned Place des Vosge in the Marais. The magnificent 17th-century residence rises up over a manicured garden courtyard, while indoors the earthy palette and lush fabrics create an atmosphere of hushed elegance. The library bar is the perfect place to enjoy a drink at the end of the day, the newly launched spa offers every kind of pampering, and the contemporary rooms are a welcome refuge in the evening.
Hip Hotels
Hoxton Hotel, Paris
Paris is a city of fashion, and there is always a hotel which is having its moment, a darling of the fashionistas and the hipsters in search of hottest (or is it coolest?) places to stay. Located in a historic 18th century mansion once owned by Etienne Rivie, advisor to Louis XV, and now classified as a monument historique, the Hoxton Paris is just such a place. The palatial cobblestone courtyards, original luxe detailing and flamboyant grand staircases ensure that it will remain a style-magnet long after the whimsy of the fashion world has moved elsewhere. As an added benefit, the Hoxton group always does a superb job of imbuing their properties with an authentic sense of place, and the Hoxton Paris is like the surrounding Marais - beguiling, beautiful and just a little bit naughty…