New Luxe in Town

Four years in the making, some of France’s finest artisans were handpicked to undertake the vast $600 million restoration that is now The Peninsula Hotel Paris. Designed to attract Asia’s super-rich, The Peninsula group opened its first property in Europe – and 10th property worldwide- this past August, making its grand entrance and setting new standards in design, luxury and comfort. Located just steps from the Arc de Triomphe, The Peninsula sits in the heart of Paris within walking distance to some of the world’s most famous monuments, museums and luxury shopping districts. Situated in a late 19th century classic Haussmannian building which first opened as one of Paris’s most luxurious grand hotels in 1908, The Peninsula houses 200 rooms, including 34 suites, and the interior elements include fine marble, rich wood paneling, and gold leaf finishes. The hotel’s entry-level rooms are priced at $1,500, but they’re huge by European standards.

The Peninsula Paris is a self-contained world of fantastic beauty, soaring spaces, gilt-edged moldings and aristocratic grandeur. iPad style room controls in 11 languages, blazing fast – and free- WiFi, free international phone calls and global radio and television broadcasts adds to the extreme luxury the hotel group is known for. There’s a fleet of Rolls Royces and BMWs at the ready to transport guests, and maids are alerted via smartphone when you go to breakfast or the gym so your room can be serviced when it’s convenient for you. The Peninsula also offers a huge, underground state-of-the-art spa and six restaurants, including both a classic Cantonese homage to its Kowloon roots, and a traditional French rooftop eatery with open air gardens, and 360 degree views of the most famous Parisian landmarks. This is the most exciting opening of the year, which follows a string of recent Asian hotel openings in Paris, including the Mandarin Oriental. The Peninsula has one year to lure a devoted clientele before the Ritz and Crillon each reopen after extensive overhauls. paris.peninsula.com