Ernest Hemingway once said that “there are only two places in the world where we can live happy: at home and in Paris”. And as you meander through the whimsical streets of the 9th Arrondissement, passing by the opulent Palais Garnier to the impeccably marmoreal Sacré-Coeur of Montmartre, you will find yourself similarly enchanted by the charm of the French capital. Marvel in the wide, straight boulevards - once the historical legacy of Haussman - and nestle yourself in the boutique comfort of Hotel Phileas.
Developed during the Belle Epoque era of the 1900s when opulent architecture and lavish luxury were abundant in the streets of Paris, the 9th Arrondissement is the ideally alluring location for discovering the rest of the gems the city has to offer. Located close to the Saint-Lazare train station, the Hôtel Phileas is a former family home, traditionally welcoming 19th-century gentlemen travellers on their grand tours and immaculately retaining this air of luxury.
Fully renovated in 2015, the hotel offers a choice of intimate or spacious rooms, smiling and attentive service, and a stay in the midst of Paris’ most prestigious destinations. Happiness begins with a gourmet stopover, so indulge in a fresh breakfast every morning as well as tea and cakes in the lounge each afternoon. Stroll to the great department stores of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps in under ten minutes, as well as having the Opéra Garnier and the Madeleine on your doorstep.
With an illustrious artistic pedigree and harbouring treasures from antiquity onwards, Paris mirrors this tradition in its iconic architecture: walk the streets and marvel in the eclectic melange of lamplit bridges, gargoyled cathedrals, and avant-garde contemporary design.
Parisians are synonymous with style, and fashion shopping is the city’s forte. Remaining at the forefront of international trends, browsing the flagship haute couture houses is a quintessential part of any visit. After a long day exploring the winding streets of the City of Lights, let Spa Cinq Mondes welcome you back with open arms and pamper you with bespoke spa treatments to ease those aching feet from endless steps along the Champs-Élysées.
In the words of Audrey Hepburn; “Paris is always a good idea”.