The City of Lights was vibrant and full of life! The weather was pleasant, Parisians and tourists were out and about, and the iconic café culture was thriving. I was there to learn about four boutique hotels on the Rive Gauche (Left Bank). If you want a very superficial distinction between left and right banks, the left bank is more relaxed and bohemian while the right bank is more elegant and refined.
France is an easy trip for fully vaccinated travelers. I applied for the health pass in advance, but approval did not arrive prior to travel. No worries, my vaccination card was golden and got me through the airport and any destination I visited, including hotels, restaurants, and stores. I entered the cathedral Sacré-Coeur in Montmartre, but did not walk inside museums or monuments on this short trip. The health pass or vaccine card are required for entrance and masks are required indoors and on public transportation.
As of September 8th, 73% of the population have received one dose of the vaccine and 69% are fully vaccinated. Pharmacies and some pop-up vaccination sites perform the required Covid testing to return to the US for 25-30 euros.
Saint André des Arts: Located in the most vibrant part of the Latin Quarter, steps from chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this hotel is tucked into cobblestoned streets full of restaurants and shops. The artsy, 70’s inspired interior gives a nod to its bohemian past. Charles Baudelaire, Isidore Isou and E.E. Cummings lived here. Restaurant recommendation: Le Colvert Bistrot
La Belle Juliette: Designed as an homage to 19th century socialite Juliette Récamier and located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it’s the perfect mix of old and new. The small spa, steam room, and indoor pool are perfect for a romantic getaway – reserve the pool for a private experience with lighted candles. The beautiful Le Bon Marché (world’s oldest department store) designed in part by Gustave Eiffel, is a 5-minute walk. Recommend a picnic: Shop le Grande Epicérie at Bon Marché and have a picnic in the hotel garden before your spa experience.
Les Dames du Panthéon: Each floor of this boutique hotel adjacent to the Panthéon has a different theme that celebrates women, from Edith Piaf, George Sand, Juliette Greco, Marguerite Duras, and African Singares. Expect unique curated art, rich silks and fabrics, and bespoke wallpaper in the rooms. Restaurant recommendation: Le Perraudin
Hotel Baume: In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, steps from the Odéon Theatre and Jardin du Luxembourg, Hotel Baume pays tribute to Art Deco design. The hotel explores 5 themes in its rooms: cinema, jewelry, architecture, fashion, and the 1930’s club scene.
Recommend wine and cheese experience: Enjoy a private wine cellar experience around the corner at La Cave du Senat.
France is always in season and easy for American travelers.
Enjoy VIP status and added amenities at these hotels when you book through me.
Helen Jordan is the owner of Jordan Luxury Travel, an independent affiliate of Brownell Travel, a member of Virtuoso. She can be reached at [email protected].
