Paris - Je t'aime!
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| Photo Courtesy: Four Seasons |
Where to StayFour Seasons Hotel, George V - 5 Star. Located steps away from the Eiffel Tower. This is a truly luxurious Parisian hotel.Hotel de Crillon - 5 Star. Located in Place de la Concorde, which is one of my favorite spots in Paris.Plaza Athenee - 5 Star. Located on Avenue Montaigne which has some of the best shopping in Paris!The Westin Paris- Vendome - 4 Star. Located in Place Vendome which is a gorgeous, historic square and has some of the best jewelry stores in Paris.Where to EatThere are so many fantastic restaurants in Paris that this is always a tough decision. If you only have two nights, then I would suggest eating at one of the famous michelin star restaurants and in a more casual brasserie- style restaurant to have different experiences. Formal Restaurants:Les Ambassadeurs - FrenchThis is probably the most gorgeous dining room of Paris. Formerly the grand ballroom of the Hôtel de Crillon, it has retained the opulence of the time it was built in 1775 with its 25-foot decorated ceiling, Baccarat crystal chandeliers and marble in seven different colors framing the oversized mirrors. Diners are delighted by young chef Christopher Hache’s amazing Haute Cuisine and are made to feel “like Louis XV” thanks to service that’s “as close to being hand-fed as one can get” He has chosen to do a light and modern cuisine without ostentation and hazardous adventures, artistically presented, Some of the desserts look like “objets d’art,” and it would almost be enough to eat them with the eyes. 
Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athenee - Contemporary, FrenchDucasse probably intended this address to be more than just a top-notch restaurant, a reflection on the passing of time, fads, the eternity of classicism and, simply speaking, life. Hence, this unorthodox and poetic space where the serious diner would enjoy an ensemble of continuous sensual emotions. The 18th Century space, done modern, leaves one with his feet in tradition and his eyes in the world of today and maybe tomorrow. Chef Christophe Moret, for years Ducasse's second, shares the faith of his mentor in the superiority of the great classics that he dons with discreet modern looks. Guy Savoy - Contemporary, FrenchAn evening here is an invitation to exercise all of your senses. The palate is captivated by the sublime tastes of dishes that reach perfection while the sight is fascinated by the masterpieces hanging in the room composing a rare decorl. A cuisine that can conjure such pretty metaphors is worthy of the highest rating.
Casual Restaurants:Café de la Paix - BrasserieOne of the most popular and famous cafes in Paris, Café de la Paix reminds one of a different epoque in history when the Opera represented Paris' cultural hub. The café is wrapped in true elegance with authentic Parisian favorites like a delightful rendition of the Croque Monsieur. Good for both a meal and a small cup of coffee, this piece of Parisian memorabilia continues to bustle and is one of the best spots for people-watching.
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| Escargots |
Benoit - Traditional French In Paris since 1912 and is the archetypal Parisian bistro. Acquired by the Alain Ducasse Group and by Thierry de la Brosse from the Petit family, owners for three generations, Benoît is renowned for its warm and convivial old-fashioned atmosphere. The chef turns out escargots in their shells with garlic butter and herbs; tête-de-veau, or head of veal, in a traditional ravigote vinaigrette sauce; bœuf à la parisienne; and good cassoulet. But not to be missed are the desserts, such as a rum-imbibed savarin sponge cake and orange ice cream soufflé.
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| Yummy Berthillon Ice Cream |
Not to Miss....Berthillon ice cream - They make delicious flavors. My favorites being caramel sel de mer (salted caramel) and framboise (strawberry)Laduree- Tea room and famous for macarons, a few throughout Paris but I love the location in St. HonorePierre Herme - Best macarons in Paris. Buy some to take back as gifts. My favorite flavors are Rose, Pistachio and Salted Caramel :-)
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| Famous Pierre Herme Macarons |
Where to PartyL'Arc Nightclub -Located across the street from L'Arc de Triomphe.Hotel Costes - The over the top bar is considered a den of opulence.Buddha Bar - Beautifully decorated restaurant/bar with great music and lively bar scene.
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| Photo Courtesy: L'Arc |
Where to ShopRue du Fauborg-St Honore - High end stores like LanvinPlace Vendome - Beautiful, historic square lined with mostly jewelry and watch stores. Gorgeous architecture.The Marais - I describe this as the SOHO of Paris as its a great combination of boutiques and larger chains mixed together in a quaint settingAvenue Montaigne - Designer shopping like Chanel, Fendi, Dior, Louis VuittonSaint-Germain-des-Pres - Lots of books and home furnishings stores
What to do Paris is a walking city and to really enjoy the essence of the city, do walk!Its nice to walk from sight to sight, stop along the way for constant re-fueling maybe a gelato, macaron or even a glass of wine and keep going.Here are some of my favorite sights:
Notre Dame - Gorgeous cathedral. Must see from the inside.Louvre - Beautiful buildings, a bit overwhelming so would suggest seeing the top works first before you get burnt out.Musee d'Orsey - My favorite museum. The building itself is a piece of art. Could spend an entire day here easily!Eiffel Tower - nice to see the view from the top. I like the restaurant at the top, Jules Verne.L'Opera - Stunning building.Champs de Elysees - walk down the Champs Elysees just for the fun of it but its pretty touristy with shops mostly.Bridges over the River Seine - Take a boat cruise on the Seine as Sunset. Its an absolute must to. Place de la Concorde - Has a pair of the most gorgeous fountains in Paris (my favorite) and a great spot to see the Eiffel Tower, L'obelisk, and other beautiful sights of Paris.
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| Place de la Concorde |
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| Fountains at Place de la Concorde |