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Ritz Paris

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COST: $$$$$

<p>An institution since 1898, the lavish, opulent Ritz—near the Louvre museum and Tuileries gardens—has maintained its stature as one of Paris's leading hotels despite a plethora of trendy newcomers. Of course, not everyone can claim the Ritz's history: it was the world's first hotel to have a private bath in every room, and everyone from Edward VII to Coco Chanel has called it home (in Chanel's case, for 37 years). A massive renovation in 2007 updated its infrastructure, yet Belle Époque touches remain. Swan-shaped, gold-plated faucets grace the tubs; a surfeit of period Louis XV, Louis XVI, and Empire furniture fills the rooms; and thousands of euros worth of flowers scent the air each week. Traditional white-glove service, a Roman-style pool ringed with columns, and a Michelin-starred restaurant only add to this lap-of-luxury experience.</p> <p><strong>Insider Tip:</strong> Order a Bloody Mary at The Bar Hemingway (the cocktail was invented here for the namesake novelist), and let legendary bartender Colin Field entertain with tales of his romantic life.</p> <p><strong>Room to Book:</strong> Avoid the “intimate” rooms in the Cambon wing; instead, ask for No. 527 for a view of the Opéra, or a Superior Executive for a room overlooking the tranquil, newly planted Grand Jardin.</p>

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From Travel + Leisure , JUN 2007

...you get a long, wide corridor with just a few throne-like perches and towering French windows...MORE>>

– Christopher Petkanas Puttin&#8217; on the Ritz

From Travel + Leisure , JUN 2004

'I usually stay at the Ritz because the general manager is an old friend. I may be opening an Italian restaurant there. Stay tuned.'...MORE>>

– T+L Reports: Big Apple Circus

Last updated January 2008