French Moments: A Perfect Long Weekend in Paris

Palais du Louvre

Any time spent in Paris is too little, not nearly enough to soak in its vibrant, zesty spirit, and its colorful history written all over the streets. The city’s soul hides in every stone of every architectural masterpiece you come across, and the magnificent almost 90-year-old gentleman that is George V, a Four Seasons hotel in the Golden Triangle of Paris, is no exception. If you have a weekend to spare, think no further than the French capital, and treat yourself to a lush stay that will resonate throughout your life, finally giving meaning to those famous words by Howard Koch: “We’ll always have Paris.”

Stay in the bosom of Paris

The extravagant and timeless George V is the epitome of Paris: proudly residing in an Art Deco building that preserved all of its charm, yet profoundly modern and eclectic, the hotel is a perfect weekend hideout for lovebirds, families and solo travelers alike. The eight-story building overlooks the most monumental of Parisian wonders, including the Champs-Elysées, the imposing Arc de Triomphe and of course, the Eiffel Tower. The view alone feels like immersing yourself in pure Parisian culture.

The stay is ravishing, as every room basks in vivid floral arrangements (by Jeff Leatham, the hotel’s artistic director), and the spacious, elegant suits are designed to offer a feeling of a true love-nest. The staff are subtle, discrete and beyond professional, and they tend to anticipate your needs as much as fulfill your every request. The fitness room and spa are also impressive, although I believe such a brief stay should be dedicated to exploring the city as much as you possibly can.

But don’t forget to visit the hotel’s magnificent restaurant Le Cinq, which is as deserving of its three Michelin-star reputation as the hotel itself, and as Lumiere would say, it’s a true culinary cabaret for your palate – always different, always superb. Perhaps you might even find yourself slightly “pompette” at the end of your fine-dining adventure, with the help of their superb wines!

Revel in life like a true Parisian

Even if you’re not an early bird by nature, Paris deserves those several extra hours of your attention, and it will, in turn, give you the best breakfast pastry you could possibly wish for – La Pâtisserie des Rêves is a personal favorite, although even less famous spots will not disappoint with their croissant selection and a hot cup of coffee. Colorova Patisserie in rue de l’Abbé Grégoire in the 6e arrondissement is another great choice, and if you wish for a taste of the East, then your host, Le Cinq has a marvelous Japanese-style breakfast for you.

Up for a shopping spree? No place like Paris to indulge in some high-style boutique fashion, nestled in equally ancient buildings that echo of the decadent past. But fear not, it’s more than possible to satisfy your green shopping cravings at Valentine Gauthier, Ekyog and Mademoiselle Bio for a fresh supply or organic skincare.

Paris, Source: Pexels

Travel in time

Yes, by all means, go to Louvre, but remember: you will only see a fraction of its splendor, simply because even the most knowledgeable visitors need up to a week to explore its busy corridors. For those among you who are true culture vultures, an all-encompassing Paris museum pass can give you unlimited access to over fifty notable museums all across the city. You’re eager to see Les Arts décoratifs – Collection Mode et Textile, every fashion buff’s dream-come-true? Or the famous Musée d’Orsay on the Seine? The pass has you covered.

Paris, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Source: Pexels

Head to the Ile de la Cité to see Notre Dame, take your time when in the district around Montmartre and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, step out of your hotel suite for a stroll down Champs Elysees, and wrap up your stay with a dusk cruise on the Seine. These are all classics, for a good reason, and an exquisite way to meet the City of Light for the first time, or to rekindle your love for its debonair charm.

Post Comments