Mandarin Oriental, Paris

The Mandarin Oriental claims one of the swankiest addresses in town; flanked by the fashion world’s haughtiest haute couture, the 138-room hotel fits right in. Guests walking in from the fashionista-packed streets are greeted by a lovely staff and a glossy marble lobby, but the striking factor is the rear wall of glass exposing the hotel’s rather magnificent central courtyard garden. That sky-high glass wall sets the tone: sophisticated opulence, refined poise and a distinction that “top of the line” is the only acceptable ranking here. Interior designer Sybille de Margerie mixed the Mandarin’s serene, Eastern-influenced aesthetic with Paris’ rich, elevated style and the results inside the 1930s Art Deco shell have that enviably perfect Parisian je ne sais quoi. As with all Mandarins, the Parisian post’s dining is impeccable (and glowing under its Michelin stars,) but the crown jewel of the property is dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation: the massive subterranean spa is a verified temple of serenity.

A sleek and utterly upscale retreat with flawless service.

A charmingly cramped boutique on a narrow Left Bank side street.

You want the best of the best. A margin of error that sits at zero, no-expenses-spared sophistication and a sense that serenity is the highest form of luxury.

Camélia - all-day dining offering French cuisine Bar 8 - offering cocktails and light bites