Almost deferentially the Hotel Raphael stands two steps behind the magnificent Arc de Triomphe. Yet it stands apart and tall. This ninety-roomed luxury liner represents understated elegance at its best. Step into the lobby and your eyes will be awash with the muted grandeur of the paneled oaks and exquisite artworks. As the porter wheels the luggage discreetly behind you, the art-soaked atmosphere of this luxury hotel envelops your being transporting you to the era of the early Impressionists.
You almost expect to hear an ethereal Ravel piano composition in the background as you unlock your room or suite while the porter discreetly places your luggage instead of simply dumping it.
The smallest chambre in this Paris luxury hotel is the classic room bathed in natural light. Large French windows with heavy curtains and Louis the fifteenth and sixteenth furnishings are characteristic of this room. Wi-fi access and color television are some of the modern touches discreetly embedded.
For a decidedly upgraded adaptation of the understated elegance that pervades this luxury five star hotel we suggest you try the alcove room for its discreet blend of chic and comfort. Lofty wardrobes, velvet-swathed chairs and sofas, writing desk, chests and tables characterize this room. The bathroom has a large bathtub, shower, and ceramic fittings and tiles.
Raphael guests who wish to make the best of their stay with money to splurge should definitely check into the State Suite with three magnificent rooms giving out towards the Avenue des Portugais. Open any of its outsized windows and stare out into the superb Parisian skyline dotted with rooftops, the Sacré Coeur and the Eiffel Tower.
Business guests find its spacious sitting room ideal for conducting business meetings and entertaining important guests. The 1925 artwork, even the fireplace, gives it an old-world appearance in a distinctly modern setting. The hand-painted ceramic pieces by La Morinerie craftsmen in the four bathrooms enhance the 'personalized' touch apart from the hammam, multi-directional showers, and balneotherapy system.
For dining purposes you can avail of the 24-hour in-room dining services. But we strongly recommend that you step out of your room or suite into Raphael's terraced Les Jardins Plein Ciel offering a gorgeous view of the city's skyline while tucking into special grilled dishes and cold cuts. The tree-lined shade and the polished teak furnishings take the eating experience to a more sophisticated level.
For a more distinctly 'gourmet' eating experience you should try La Salle a Manger known for its home-prepared Foie Gras cooked in pot with Muscat from Riversaltes, gingerbread, nuts and grapes.
Business travelers find the Raphael absolutely divine with regard to its six conference rooms all awash with natural light with a seating capacity of 30 to 50 guests. There are, in addition, cloakrooms, fireplaces and parquet floors making the seminar experience a rather rewarding one. Upon request, parties and cocktails may also be staged either inside one of the conference halls or the vista-laden terrace.
Living in Raphael is like watching a Monet painting come alive while living the experience.
Mike Greaves is a self-made entrepreneur, a well known travel consultant and internet marketer. Over the years he has travelled across the world and has numerous writings credited to his name in many renowned publications. His areas of writing include travel experiences including reviews of Paris Luxury Hotels, Luxury Hotels and Luxury Hotels San Diego.
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