VIBE

Ever since this 19th century mansion was reimagined as a residential-style luxury hotel in the 1920s, Hôtel Lancaster has been offering an escape for well-heeled travelers seeking to live à la française. The elegant rooms are lovingly furnished in 17th century antiques, original artwork (including a handful of Old Masters), and scrupulously sourced period fabrics, giving them the intimate feel of the private apartments of a well-traveled aristocrat. That said, the hotel’s most “home-like” aspects are actually its buzzing public areas, including the courtyard Japanese Zen garden and two formal salons, where you will find guests comfortably settled in with refreshing drinks and engaging in animated banter with clients or friends.

GO HERE WITH

Significant other; colleagues; yourself

WHY WE LIKE IT

A quiet retreat that oozes character–it’s a good bet if you need a break from the gilded grandeur or society scene of other luxury hotspots around town. We like relaxing in the Zen garden with a cocktail after a day of hitting the shops or sights.

AMENITY WE LOVE

The three elegant public spaces–perfect for relaxing with a date or a client. (Although the in-room multi-region DVD players are certainly handy, too, given that the hotel offers a DVD library.)

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

We wish there was an onsite spa–the relaxing atmosphere is prime for a little pampering. Also, our room (admittedly the most basic offering) was teeny tiny.

GOOD TO KNOW

The posh shops of Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Élysées are just around the corner. For those traveling with kids, there are some child-friendly services available, including babysitting.

CLOSEST COMPS

Dukes (London); Draycott Hotel (London)

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