Marla and I have visited Paris at least 30+ times over the years. When I find a hotel which checks off most of the boxes for me, location, comfort, style, price, etc., I usually like to return again. Marla on the other hand needs a push to go back to the same place as she likes to try someplace new. Well, I thought I had a new place for her on our July trip but the hotel decided to remain closed due to COVID. They booked us in a nice room at their sister hotel, The Madison. I had to laugh as we’ve stayed there 3 or 4 times in the past! The Hotel de Buci will have to wait for another trip.

We received a large “Deluxe” room with views of the church of the Saint-Germain-des- Pres. Excellent sound proofing muffled the sounds of the Boulevard Saint-Germain. The Hotel Madison is probably my favorite regarding location as it is in the middle of the 6th arrondissement, an area which has captivated me. Grab a coffee at an outdoor table and watch the comings and goings on the boulevard at Cafe de Flore or Deux Magots across the street. Check out the location map of the Hotel Madison. You can walk to all the iconic sites!

The hotel has been completed redecorated since our last visit. The interiors are a mix of deco elegance with modern elements. We love the design and colors! Definitely opt for a larger room as some are a little small.

The very colorful and stylish bathroom.

This is where we had breakfast each morning. The selections and preparations were excellent!

Elegant bar and lobby area. Marla and I LOVE The Hotel Madison!

I pulled this image out of my archive from a visit to the hotel Madison with a few interior designer clients in 2004. On the left is Boulder designer Ed Parent chatting with Jean-Francois Sainz. Jean-Francois graciously drove to Paris from the town of Bouzy to give our group a presentation on delicious Champagne. He is now the mayor of Bouzy along with heading up his family’s Champagne house, Andre Clouet.

The Place Dauphine is a public square located near the western end of the Île de la Cité in the first arrondissement of Paris. It exudes a unique and quiet charm which is very special. Our grandsons Paxton and Logan are outside the apartment their dad found for the family. I must say it is stunning! “Great job, Ray!”

Lisa and Ray are looking exceedingly happy with their six night rental. The 2 bedroom apartment is elegantly appointed with Baccarat lamps, antiques, and modern elements. It simply exudes style! Click on this VRBO link for all the details: Place Dauphine Apartment.

Marla and I walked over from our hotel in the 5th arrondissement. We were in Paris for two nights at the end of our France trip. See my previous posts on Paris, Bandol, and Antibes.

Though the building dates back to 1605 the apartment has fully modern features. The kitchen has a La Cornue “Chef” oven. Love the metalwork and the original wooden beams.

Place Dauphine is a wonderful enclave and central to all of Paris. There are a number of nice restaurants in the square. It is fun to have a drink and watch people play boules.

The master bathroom is very nicely designed.

Paxton and Ray show us the second bedroom. What a fabulous view.

These decorative pieces on the wall caught my eye. I believe they are from Burma.

Paxton is having a “very small sip.”

“Wow” is the word I would use to describe this apartment!

Logan descends the staircase.

On our final two nights in Paris I chose a new hotel for us, The Hotel Residence Henri IV, in the 5th arrondissement near the Sorbonne. The hotel is located on a tiny lane next to a little park. See link for the location: Location Map.

Our room was very nice and included a little balcony with chairs, perfect for having coffee or a glass of wine.

I can tell Marla likes this place!

The bathroom is very decorative and efficient considering the small size.

Something rare in Paris apartments is the kitchenette.

“Ah…chocolate croissants!”

One thing which truly stands out is the level of service at the front desk! The staff were very helpful and accommodating!

I am sure many of you have your favorite Paris hotels as well. Let us know where you like to stay.

Photos: Dick Gentry. Not to be shared without permission.