Paris is magical all year round. Nothing inspires the magic of romance like a stay in one of Paris’ historic palace hotels that know how to roll out the red carpet and make you feel like a princess. Marble bathrooms, fine linens, antique furnishings, Michelin-star restaurants, luxury spas and impeccable views of Paris’ spectacular skyline, all invoke romance.
The quintessential definition of romance is embodied in
the opulent Le Meurice that sits opposite the beautiful Tuileries Garden. Their
luxurious suites and rooms offer breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, Jardin
de Tuileries, Musée d'Orsay, Musée du Louvre and the scenic Seine River. It is
the picture-perfect setting to sip champagne with your love, as you watch the
sun set over the most romantic city in the world. Within walking distance of
Paris’ most iconic sites, its incredible location is perfect for you to set out
and explore.
Paris is a haven for chocolate lovers, and there is no
better place to indulge then at the renowned Salon de Thé and Pâtissier
Angelina, located next to Le Meurice. Start your day with a cup of their famous
chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) while strolling
through the picturesque Jardin du Tuileries. This beautiful garden was once the
private site of many royal residences. On a warm day, do as Parisians do, and unfurl
a blanket to enjoy a picnic in the park.
Immortalize your love on a padlock or take a romantic
selfie on the Pont des Arts, the famous “love-locking” bridge, then make your
way towards the striking Musée d'Orsay on Paris’ Left Bank in Saint-Germain-Des-Prés.
The museum is located in a former Beaux-Arts railway station and houses the largest
collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces in the world. If
you prefer older works, on the Right Bank you will find the massive centuries-old
palace known as the Musée du Louvre. The building itself, with its famous glass
pyramid is worth seeing, especially at night when you can sit back with a
bottle of wine and marvel at the amber lit view.
Paris’ culinary scene is one of the most enviable in
the world. Enjoy a meal of steak frites at the ever popular Le Relais de
L’Entrecôte. This 80 year old traditional Parisian restaurant only serves steak
and an endless supply of golden frites coupled with their secret sauce and a
selection of delicious desserts. It is the perfect Parisian meal.
Paris’ quaint streets are lined with chic boutiques and
art nouveau cafés filled with wicker-chairs and the chatter of patrons enjoying
the French Art of Living. Take a stroll through the Faubourg Saint-Honoré
district to see the luxury boutiques or visit the grandiose Avenue des Champs-Élysées
for shopping. Afterwards, sit back and people watch while savouring light and
colorful macarons at Ladurée.
Guarding this grand boulevard is the impressive Arc de
Triomphe commissioned by Emperor Napoléon in 1806. A visit to the top of this
monument will provide you with unobstructed views of Paris that will leave you
breathless.
At nearby Porte Maillot, dine on oysters and wine at L’Auberge
Dab. This elegant brasserie serves traditional French food and fresh full-flavoured
shellfish in a warm and intimate setting; it’s the perfect ending to a perfect
day.
Breakfast or High Tea at the Plaza Athénée to savour
the creations of celebrity pastry chef Christophe Michalak is a must. His
butter caramel religieuse is a decadent work of art. If you prefer an evening
visit, stop by for late-night cocktails in their stylish bar. If you are
travelling to Paris in the winter, the iconic property will not disappoint, as
their alfresco Cour Jardin (interior court) turns into an ice-skating wonderland
from December to January – wonderfully romantic for a winter honeymoon.
The picturesque neighbourhood of Montmartre is home to
the majestic Sacré-Coeur Basilica. The vista from its parvis is postcard
perfect. Listen to musicians play, picnic on the hillside park, or stroll its narrow,
winding streets hand in hand. Home to some of the world’s most famous artists,
it is sure to inspire romance. If you’re up for an authentic Parisian treat, catch
a cabaret show at the famed Moulin Rouge.
Countless couples have declared their love at the
impressive Eiffel Tower. Take your darling to new heights by sharing a toast high
above at the Champagne Bar. In the evening, this Paris landmark lights up and
twinkles in the night sky. Though some may consider it a little cliché, its
effect is still magical.
Enjoy a romantic evening bateau-mouche ride on the
Seine River. Glide past Paris’ timeless cityscape and the dominating Notre-Dame
Cathedral as you sneak kisses under the bridges. For a more luxurious experience,
book the Yachts of Paris and delight in a romantic gourmet dinner for two as
the City of Light sparkles around you.
Paris is a feast for the senses with endless
possibilities and a magical place to share with a loved one. Its timeless
beauty will remain etched in your heart, and will have you longing to return
and relive those exceptional moments.
Look for my article in the new issue of DestinationVows Magazine featured in their new U.S. and Canadian edition.
Look for my article in the new issue of DestinationVows Magazine featured in their new U.S. and Canadian edition.
