Our Galavante founder, Christine Drinan, who’s been to over 100 countries around the world and is on her way to 195, has a local guide of her favorite spots in Paris, where she often travels. It’s the travel guide to Paris for those who think of Paris as their second home. Or third.
Places to Stay
Lately, we’ve been staying at La Reserve. It’s so French, it hurts. There’s classic décor in all the common areas, and in a place where there are so many chic people who travel, the people who stay at La Reserve are just beautiful. The people-watching is amazing, and it’s very insider – it feels like home.
Another must-stay is Hotel Lutetia. It’s so new and hot, we haven’t even had the chance to stay there ourselves yet. But it’s a must. Finally a travel guide to Paris has a luxury hotel on the Left Bank of Paris. Check out these other boutique hotels in Paris, for a more authentic yet chic stay.
Places to Eat and Drink
Paris is the mecca for food – especially if you know where to go. This travel guide to Paris is about the old school places to eat, that are always on the circuit. When you’ve been to Paris more times than you can count, you gravitate to your usual spots. Of course, you’ll try a new place or two, just to stay current.
On any given day, you’ll always find us hanging out at the Hotel Costes, where we get the blinis and smoked salmon, or something really healthy. You always end up meeting amazing people, and spend about half a day there, before arbitraging the exchange rate and hitting Channel across the street. Le Bristol is perfect for lunch or an afternoon snack. It has one of the best cheese plates in the city – it’s expensive, but it’s worth it. Four Seasons Hotel George V has always been very special to us, so we always try to have a drink there. And for drinks with friends, we always like to meet at The Ritz. Monsieur Bleu and LouLou Paris Restaurant are two other top recs.
Places to See
Le Marais, which is a fashionable district in the 4th arrondissement, is the ultimate spot hip boutiques, galleries, bars and restaurants. And on Sundays, it’s still one of the few places that stays open.
