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Hôtel Le Bristol

• T+L 500 Winner

COST: $$$$$

Although this grande dame—just east of the Place Charles de Gaulle—is done up in a style that's pure French fantasy (endless toile fabric and Rococo furniture), management hasn't skipped touches of cool, like Smart cars (available for shopping excursions). The on-site Anne Sémonin spa has a cult following for its jet-lag facials, and pedicurist Bastien Gonzalez is a star in his own right. Other amenities—Hermès robes laid out in the city's largest bathrooms, a sizable (13,000 square feet) formal garden that's scented with magnolias in spring, and personalized bouquets created by the hotel's florists upon request—round out the experience.</p> <p><strong>Insider Tip:</strong> Even if you don't intend to take a dip in the rooftop pool (it's charmingly designed to look like a 19th-century yacht), visit the adjoining solarium for the sweeping city vistas.</p> <p><strong>Room to Book:</strong> Any of those in the new 26-room Avenue Matignon wing with Eiffel Tower views.</p>

Last updated January 2008