"Housed in the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, I found the Shangri-La Paris a sumptuous blend of Belle Époque romance and contemporary indulgence: the 100-room property (opened 2010) features crystal chandeliers, ornate fireplaces, painted frescoes, acres of marble, and a sun-dappled spa pool about 56 feet long. Many rooms and suites offer Eiffel Tower glimpses, while the terrace of the Suite Chaillot promises an unforgettable tête-à-tête with the monument; the hotel’s garden invites a relaxed meal (lobster tortellini at La Bauhinia). Culinary highlights include Shang Palace, the first Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant in France, where chef Tony Xu balances Chengdu roots with fine French ingredients such as Bresse poultry for creative dishes like lo hei." - Mary Winston Nicklin, Lindsey Tramuta