"In 1891, Prince Roland Bonaparte—grand-nephew to Napoleon—chose a prime setting near the Seine River to build an opulent palace, complete with an elaborate carved façade, a vaulted ceiling emblazoned with zodiac symbols, and a dramatic "Stairway of Honor" made from brass and forged steel. The cultured prince hosted many a lively gathering at his palace—a tradition of hospitality that was revived in 2010, with the opening of the Shangri-La Paris. Following a meticulous restoration, the landmark features a dome-topped marble entryway, original wood floors, stained glass windows, and hand-carved mahogany panels—plus that famous staircase. It's not just pretty, either: A favorite destination dining spot for locals, the hotel houses Shang Palace, the first Chinese restaurant in France to receive a Michelin star, and La Bauhinia, which serves an elegant East-meets-West menu (including a popular afternoon tea) under the central glass cupola." - Sandra Ramani, Lindsey Tramuta
