PARIS Is Always A Good Idea

If you're looking to splurge while staying in the City of Light, here are our top three recommendations.

- ELIZABETH LEE & CHERYL CHAN

Luxurious, old-world charm

Le bristol

ADDRESS 112 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore, 75008 

Paris, France VIBE A Palace hotel with elegant yet cosy surrounds, and modern hospitality

PRICE From $2,000

One of the oldest Palace hotels, Le Bristol is an icon in its own right. Since the roaring ’20s, it has welcomed the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Rita Hayworth into its hallowed halls, and in 1940 during the second World War, it transformed into the headquarters of the American embassy.

Today, it attracts a stylish set including stars, but the celebrity sighting we looked forward to the most was of the four-legged kind. During our stay, we spotted a flash of white fur jumping energetically across the freshly mowed lawn, as well as snoozing away on one of the plush sofas near the lobby – it was Socrate, the hotel’s little ambassador cat.

At Le Bristol, the staff are always courteous; their welcome always warm. Yes, it oozes five-star luxury, but there’s also a feeling of coming home that makes a stay here truly special.

ROOMS There are a total of 190 rooms and suites spread across the main building and Matignon wing. More charming than ornate, the decor remains bright and airy despite classic Louis XV-esque chairs, Persian carpets and antique furnishings. This might have to do with the fact that the hotel underwent a refresh in 2018, and now sports a harmonious green and pink theme throughout the property.