The Shangri-La Hotel in Paris is an extraordinary 5 star hotel known for it’s unparalleled service. In 2010 when the hotel group opened their first Shangri-La in Europe, there was great care taken to preserve the history of this site and their legendary reputation. Napoleon Bonaparte’s Grand Nephew, Prince Roland Bonaparte owned and lived in the original residence, at times with his family, from 1896 until his death in 1924. He was a botanist and geographer who also dabbled in striking ethnic photography. Prince Roland’s eclectic interests took him all over the world. It seemed that he was ahead of his time and well travelled not unlike many of the guests that stay here today.
Within the hotel you will find many relaxing areas to unwind. Sip exotic cocktails with an Asian flair at Le Bar, infused with Prince Roland’s love of herbs. Drink in the view of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River on your balcony or from the main terrace of the hotel. Enjoy a casual meal any time of day at the airy La Bauhinia restaurant with cascading natural light from the glass cupola above. Perhaps you would like to soak your tired legs in the serene pool after a day of sight seeing or request a relaxing massage with your favorite essence at the spa. Rejuvenate yourself by strolling in the garden connected to L’Abeille, Shangri-La’s 2 star Michelin restaurant hosting Executive Chef Christophe Moret. L’Abeille in English is Bee, which was Prince Roland’s favorite emblem. What a harmonious way to deeply breathe in and absorb the many layers of history you will discovered so close to the hotel.
Interior designer Pierre Yyve Rochon created an exceptional blend of classic french detail and tasteful asian influence throughout the entire hotel. You will find “Empire” styling to “Minimalistic Luxury.” In some suites you’ll feel if you lean over the railing just an inch you would be able to touch the Eiffel Tower that sits on the bank of the Seine River. Gold leaf trim mouldings and Gold flowers found on mantles represent the opulence found in the old world. Beautifully detailed Asian paintings, art pieces and soft materials surround you at every turn making you want to touch them as you move from room to room. Prince Roland’s former apartment has been transformed to a classic combination of plush extravagance in light blue, ecru and gold comfort for you to sink into. Fresh smelling essence of Green and White tea are infused in the Bvlgari products left for guests on the marble countertops in the rooms. Irresistible.
Shangri-La’s legendary luxury and masterful customer service will not disappoint and is prevalent from the time you are greeted by the doormen, the assistance from the concierge as to where the top boutiques and museums are located to special requests and discrete checkout service’s upon your departure. The impeccable professionalism in place to insure the satisfaction of the most discerning guests is world class. It appears the Shangri-La group is ahead of their time as well. Surely the Prince’s wandering spirit would greatly approve.
Address: 10, avenue d’Iéna, Paris, 75116, France – Tel (33 1) 5367 1998
Non Guests are welcome to use the pool and spa, restaurants and bar.
The Shangri-La Hotel is in the 16th Arrondissement or (core) of Paris and close enough to walk to many major historical sites, restaurants and top boutiques.
Dawn, so good to hear your story and have you share your inspiration, views, thought and feeling. Ahh, yes! I can live vicariously through you and have a peek into the world through your eyes.
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I’m happy you enjoyed it Jeff. That’s what keeps me motivated. There are so many great people and places out and about in the world. Alas we didn’t stay at the Shangri-La but the tour on our writers workshop was enough.
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