A quick cab ride took us from Gare de Lyon to our hotel in the posh 16th arrondissement (district). St James is an opulent chateau in the heart of Paris, a stones throw from the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées. While clearly catering to a very well-heeled crowd, it had a comfortable and familiar feel to it.
The hotel is incredible. It is a little piece of paradise in a very busy city. And I could not recommend it enough (along with Villa Florentine in Lyon). It is a throw back to the 1800s, yet it is not snobby or uptight. It's clearly the playground of the rich and famous with autographed portraits of movie stars, sports stars, models and politicians hidden in the reception. We wondered whether they might like a signed photo of us to hang on the wall too!
I had organised our room to be a little bit romantic, as I had promised Mel a honeymoon in Paris. To my surprise, the staff had sprinkled rose petals throughout our room and placed a chilled bottle of champagne upon our return at the end of the day. A very nice personal touch. Additionally, each of the rooms is themed; not in a tacky way, but continuing the playfulness. Ours is 'Queen of Scotland visits Africa'. It's fun, although Mel thinks it's a bit of a man cave.
Last night we ate in the Michelin-starred restaurant. We had an incredible degustation with matched wines. Among the courses was poached cod with Melissa (a French herb) butter sauce. By far the best seafood dish I have ever eaten. Even the dining room was playful.
Tonight we plan to have a classic French bistro meal, before returning to reality and giving Ella and Angus great big hugs. We can't wait to see them again!! And a huge thanks to mum and dad for giving us the freedom for a brilliant holiday. (...this may become an annual event...)
