Review: Shangri-La Paris

So, what's the story behind this place?
In 1891, Prince Roland Bonaparte—grand-nephew to Napoleon—chose a prime setting near the Seine River to build an opulent palace, complete with an elaborate carved façade, a vaulted ceiling emblazoned with zodiac symbols, and a dramatic "Stairway of Honor" made from brass and forged steel. The cultured prince ran in Paris's academic, scientific and artistic circles, and hosted many a lively gathering at his palace—a tradition of hospitality that was revived in 2010, with the opening of the Shangri-La Paris. The building was revived, too: after years of meticulous restoration work, the designated historic landmark features a domed-topped marble entryway, original wood floors, stained glass windows, and hand-carved mahogany panels, plus that famous staircase.

That's quite a legacy. What’s the crowd like?
Along with the Parisian restaurant regulars, fellow guests might include C-level execs, couples on a romantic getaway, and Asian travelers who are familiar with the brand (and love that there's dim sum at breakfast.)

Oh, we love that, too. Now, onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs.
Of the 100 rooms and suites, nearly half have Eiffel Tower views (some even from the bathtubs), and half have terraces, so it's no surprise that the hotel is a top pick for proposals, honeymoons, and anniversaries. Custom furnishings, convenient technology, and an Asian-meets-European style (reflected in touches like textured paneling and silk-thread wallpaper) give the accommodations an intimate, residential feel.

Lovely. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Beds are top-of-the-line, from the custom mattresses to the high-end linens.

Excellent. And please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
The marble bathrooms are fitted with both deep soaking tubs and walk-in showers—two options for using the Guerlain bath products—plus heated flooring and flat-screen televisions embedded in the fog-free mirrors. Best of all, many have windows to let in natural light (and showcase those Eiffel views.)

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
Wi-Fi is complimentary.

Room service: Worth it?
In addition to a selection of authentic Asian dishes, the room service menu features several picks from the hotel's fine dining restaurant, so you can savor Michelin-approved creations in your pj's.

Perfect. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
A favorite destination dining spot for locals, the hotel houses Shang Palace, the first Chinese restaurant in France to receive a Michelin star, and La Bauhinia, which serves an elegant East-meets-West menu (including a popular afternoon tea) under the central glass cupola. The clubby Le Bar Botaniste (named for Prince Roland's favorite area of study) stocks an array of rare botanical spirits; there's even an absinthe fountain. Set in the palace's former stables, the spa relaxes with a gorgeous indoor pool and aromatic treatments.

What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
While photo-ready views are a plenty in town, the vistas showcased in the majority of rooms here are truly something special. And unlike with many hotels, you can actually book "by view" here, so there are no surprises.

What a great feature. So, bottom line: worth it, and why?
Despite the grand setting, it's easy to feel at home here, thanks to the intimate vibe and the quiet surrounding area. Though the hotel is close to major museums and sights, there's a real sense that here, you're in the Paris of Parisians.