Where to Propose in Paris

Where to Propose in Paris admin Wed, 01/04/2012 - 20:23

Where to Stay in Paris

Where to Stay in Paris admin Wed, 01/04/2012 - 20:36

Romantic hotels in Paris tend to fall into two broad categories, and the type that you choose will depend on your tastes as well as your budget. Many couple choose one of the superb small boutique hotels, tucked away in the quieter streets, and displaying stylish artistic interiors. If you have a little more to spend you could indulge in one of the classically luxurious hotels that Paris has to offer and make your girlfriend feel like a film star for a few days.

Modern Boutique Hotels in Paris

If you’re looking for a contemporary boutique hotel the Five Hotel is a modern masterpiece in a historic building in the Latin Quarter. It’s a small hotel, and each room has been individually designed to a particular concept.

Another great choice is a the arty Hôtel le A, set in a quiet street close to the Champs Élysées, whose nineteenth century facade hides a sleek modern, mostly white interior, that makes is the perfect location to display works of abstract art.

For many people the Île Saint-Louis is the most romantic part of Paris, and to be able to stay on the island is a real treat. The Hôtel du Jeu de Paune is another stylish boutique hotel with a sleek modern art inspired interior within a historic building.

Classically Luxurious Hotels in Paris

If you want the ultimate in luxury and service, the Four Seasons George V Hotel, located close to the Champs Élysées, is a very grand building, sympathetically restored and furnished. It has private terraces giving a fantastic view of Paris and the spa is well worth a visit.

Another luxurious option if you’re looking to splash out is the Paris Ritz, close to the Place de la Concorde. From the bar to the restaurants, the health club to the suites and rooms, the Ritz is steeped in an unmistakable old-world glamour.

Finally, the Hôtel de Crillon, the former residence of the Duc de Crillon, is a fabulous monument to classical Parisian style, and whether you choose a standard room, a suite, or an apartment, you are guaranteed complete indulgence. Relax in the winter garden, or retreat to your room to take advantage of your spectacular marble bathroom.

Where to Dine in Paris

Where to Dine in Paris admin Wed, 01/04/2012 - 20:34

There are plenty of top quality restaurants in Paris, but there are also a number of mediocre eateries with inflated priced catering mainly to tourists, so it pays to know some of the better choices.

If you’re looking for something unusual and spectacular, you will be spoilt for choice. The famous Ladurée restaurants are ideal if you want to be immersed in the Paris of yesteryear. Their atmosphere and fairytale interiors give a Marie Antoinette view of Paris and there are restaurants at rue Royale Paris VIII, rue Bonaparte Paris VI, and Le Printemps Boulevard Haussmann, as well as the Champs Élysées. For something completely different the Dame de Canton, a replica Chinese junk moored on the Seine, has a fabulous restaurant on the lower floor which still manages to be romantic despite the lively music from the upper levels.

For those looking for a cosy romantic choice that’s not too touristy, Le Pamphlet in the Marais district is a fabulous bistro where you can get top quality southwest inspired food for very reasonable prices, although you will have to reserve. Le Coupe Chou, near the Panthéon is also a great choice, just make sure you know where you are going as it is easily missed. For a restaurant nearer to the Eiffel Tower, check out the Café du Commerce which is spread over three floors and has a glass roof that opens in summer, as well as an excellent menu that is popular with locals.

If you’d prefer a historic location for dinner, try La Truffière, a very romantic 17th century candle lit restaurant near the Panthéon. As the name suggests it’s a must for truffle lovers. Au Boeuf Couronné, a nineteenth century restaurant close to Parc de la Villette in the north east of Paris is ideal for old style Parisian cuisine, especially the iconic steak frites. If you just want lunch or a light meal, try Le Baron Rouge, not far from Bastille, which has a great selection of wines, served with platters of cheese, charcuterie, pate, bread and oysters.

Other Romantic Activities in Paris

Other Romantic Activities in Paris admin Wed, 01/04/2012 - 20:39

To make the most of the excitement of your proposal, make sure you have a few romantic activities up your sleeve to make your trip to Paris even more memorable. Great choices for typically Parisian activities include:

  • Book an ‘All About Chocolate’ spa treatment at the Four Seasons George V Hotel
  • Take in dinner and a show at the infamous Moulin Rouge
  • Take a walk around the Luxembourg Gardens and stop for ‘vin chaud’
  • Eat the well known Berthillon ice cream on the Île Saint-Louis
  • Enjoy the view from the terrace of Le Déli-Cieux in the Printemps Haussmann
  • Visit the Musée Rodin to admire amorous statues such as ‘the kiss’
  • Shop in one of Paris’ many delis and have a picnic on the banks of the Seine
  • Walk down the Rue Cler to enjoy the best street market in Paris