It’s been three years since I was last in Paris, and admittedly, my last two trips were pretty brief – so this visit felt more like an opportunity to finally get to know the city. We enjoyed some perfect weather for our first three days, absolutely ideal for walking the city. It turned a little cloudy for the rest of the week, but the October temperatures were comfortable and inviting for us – I wouldn’t hesitate to go back again during these dates. 

Here’s a run down of my first impressions, what to pack and even what to avoid for your next trip. 

WHERE WE STAYED: SAINT JAMES PARIS, 16th Arrondissement

I loved this hotel. It’s totally unexpected for the city-center, sitting in a quiet area of the 16th arrondissement, the chateau-style building is surrounded by crushed gravel, manicured lawn and budding gardens. 

At first, I thought the location of this hotel would be its defeat. It’s beyond the Eiffel Tower and just about a block from a straight shot to the Arc du Triomphe. Typical tourists flock to the major landmarks and museums but the Saint James is set off of a leafy sidewalk, in a sleepy neighborhood. After a long day of walking, shopping and cheers-ing through the bumbling crowds, the quiet location of Saint James felt like an inner-city sanctuary. 

IF I WENT BACK: I’d spend more time in the secluded Library Bar. The chic little spot is open only to hotel guests, so it’s like a private club. I loved the moody interior and book-filled shelves, the books are actually original to the building, a nod to its previous life as a school for boys. My most memorable cocktail was a play on a Bloody Mary, with refreshing tomato-water and grenadine mix (it’s better than it sounds) and a healthy pour of tequila. 

WHAT I’LL KEEP THINKING ABOUT: The verdant garden bar, swathed in Pierre Frey and green trellis. It’s best by night, when the lighting highlights the draped ceiling. 

OUR ROOM was a Junior Suite, which has a nice living area complete with a sofa-bed. The rooms are extremely well-appointed, complete with crystal glassware in the mini-bar, and trash bins covered in hand-stitched leather. My only complaint is that the closet space is quite small. It’s hard to pack light in Paris and could have used a larger closet. The three large windows looking over the surrounding gardens made up for it though, they gave tons of light into the room and all opened up for a closer view of the gardens. 

WHERE WE ATE: My favorite meal in Paris was actually not French at all – but was at a new Mediterranean restaurant located in the 8th arrondissement called ANNA. Led by the same chef as Shellona in St. Barths, ANNA offers welcome freshness in a city full of bread and butter. The all-white interiors, set stark against blue-lacquered tiles, transport you straight to Greece – and a buzzy DJ keeps the atmosphere lively. The share-plate style menu will keep you sipping wine and cocktails all night long. 

I also loved my meal at Le George inside the Four Seasons George V. It’s such a good spot for a special occasion or romantic dinner. The Four Seasons George V probably takes my top spot among the Palace hotels of Paris. I love a hotel with an entrance – not that it always has to be grand and oversized – but that it has to be memorable. You can be met with a scent, a mural, a towering chandelier or, in the case of the George V, hundreds of fresh florals. The scene sets the tone here…it may sound cheesy but the service makes you feel as delicate as a flower. Men in tailored suits opening doors, offering champagne with a smile and a nod at every corner. You couldn’t imagine having a bad day around all these people ensuring you want for nothing. 

WHAT I WON’T MISS is the crowds. Paris department stores felt suffocated with shoppers, so I was thrilled to meet with the partnership team at the all-new Samaritaine. They led me to a private lounge dubbed L’Appartement, where their team of friendly personal stylists will help you select clothing, handbags, shoes – and even skincare – from the wide variety of luxury brands. The best part? Samaritaine is owned by LVMH, so the lounge is chock-full of Ruinart for sipping while you shop. 

Crowded streets mean that hotel selection is even more important. I was surprised and disappointed to see some of the city’s most popular five-star spots filled to the brim and covered in influencers, shoppers taking a break and overworked staff desperate to keep up. 

IN MY NOTEBOOK: 

1. I was excited to meet with the General Manager of the George Monsieur, a chic little boutique hotel located conveniently off the Champs-Elysees. The bar caught my eye and I won’t be surprised if this one becomes a popular spot for young travelers. 

2. The Eiffel Tower views from the Shangri-La can’t be beat. If a view of the world’s most iconic landmark is a must, this hotel is for you. 

3. Our Citron tour throughout the city was a last-minute, spur of the moment decision, but turned out to be one of the most fun things that we did. Proof that less is more sometimes, and keeping it simple can always be fun. 

4. I regretted not being able to see this spot in person but I was most intrigued by the Airelles Château de Versailles. A room here allows exclusive access to the Palace of Versailles, and the Royal Camp (also known as the children’s program), is a playground for creating unforgettable memories. I’m keeping this one on my list for families and mother-daughter duos looking for something new. 

5. The penthouse at Bulgari Hotel. This suite is over the top in all of the best ways. A spectacular staircase connects two stories of interior space. And if you can peel yourself away from the dashing lacquered bar, you’ll find over 6,000 square feet of rooftop gardens and terraces, topped off with 360-degree unobstructed views high above Paris. 

6. Okay so maybe a splurge here – but I can’t wait for the launch of Belmond’s new barge in Champagne, named Coquelicot. Set to hit the water in May 2023, the barge has a sophisticated and sunny design and their partnership with Ruinart allows guests for some spectacular experiences. Champagne can be daunting to tackle – so the addition of this barge is ideal for a seamless, luxury experience. 

Whether you’ve been to Paris once, twice or more – there is always more to discover. I left with a laundry list of spots to re-visit and new openings that are sure to be the talk of the town. What will I plan for my next trip? No doubt a visit to Provence, where a handful of chateaus are calling my name.

Planning on Paris? Let’s talk.