The Plaza Athénée is famous for its geranium-red awnings and ivy covered courtyard, its bright flashes of red stand out amongst the chestnut trees and designer shops of the oh-so-elegant avenue Montaigne. The Luxury Travel Bible has always been fond of the Plaza Athénée. Under the direction of GM François Delahaye it is one of the more approachable Parisian bolt-holes but we like it even more since its impressive refurbishment. The 191 recently renovated rooms and suites are a mix of Louis XVI and Regency style topped with a little Art Deco, show-casing the best of classic of French style. When you walk in each has a scent of amber, the hotel's signature fragrance. The Luxury Travel Bible especially likes the Art Deco Suite Eiffel Terrasse with its wide terrace, 180° panorama of the Paris skyline and views of that famous tower of Monsieur Eiffel's You can even see the Eiffel tower from your  huge mosaic bath tub.

Currently there are treats in store for les petite filles because Barbie moves back into the hotel during August and September. Yes, Hôtel Plaza Athénée has given two of its bedrooms a makeover using the famous doll's favourite colours. Plaza red gives way to bubblegum pink. Decorated with 'exclusively signed' furniture, (I didn't know a plastic doll had such talent) and other suitably blush-coloured accessories. What will they say down the road at Chanel?

Luckily Hôtel Plaza Athénée has plenty of treats of adults too. Such as the association with Alain Ducasse (he is the hotel's executive chef) and Le Bar du Plaza Athénée designed by Patrick Jouin, a protégé of Philippe Starck, with its mix of trendy & tradition style.