Close enough to touch the soul of Paris...

In 1869, Parisian public opinion decried the unveiling of the "La Danse" sculpture, by the hand of Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, on its new opera house's right facade. Nudity, even when presented allegorically, was not easily accepted by society at the time. But this work of art has lasted the century and now winfs unanimous recognition for its power of composition and elegance to the point where the rehabilitated sculptor's name is associated with an annual award honoring a younger member of the Paris Opera troupe.

The Best Western Premier Opera Richepanse, located just down the street, also houses an original Carpeaux statue that features a typically Parisian trademark and elegance. This handsome bronze sculpture greets you in the hotel lobby on a floor made from a rare assortment of black and "Valencia yellow" marble.

Throughout Paris, this city's fabulously rich history can be read on most buildings. Despite being rebuilt in 1900, the Best Western Premier Opera Richepanse still stands on foundations that date back to the 17th century, as evidenced in the vaulted breakfast room furnished by Philippe Hurel, one of France's most stylish contemporary designers. Yet the hotel owner has opted for the art deco style to showcase the hotel's furnishings and decoration down to the finest detail. As an homage to the painter Tamara de Lempicka, celebrated for her work between the two World Wars, an extraordinary reproduction in marquetry is on display of her famous portrait of Arlette Boucard.

Pay special attention to the typical mosaic in the entrance, the door handles, bathroom tiles, the unique contours of hotel furnishings… Admire the chrome lamps, window frames, and especially the staircase… We would almost expect to see Louise Brooks in a hallway or bump into Josephine Baker in the sitting room.

The hotel environment is something truly special and moves in sync with Paris' eternal heart and soul. Step outside and you'll be face to face with the Madeleine Church, built as an Antique temple and where the people of Paris have bid final farewell to Chopin, Fauré, Trenet and Sartre, along with many other renowned artists.

A bit further along, you'll happen upon the Olympia, a proving ground for all of France's top singers, where Piaf and Brel gave their last and most memorable performances and where Beatlemania first struck France. You're at the epicenter here, just look at the street names: Saint Honoré, Royale, Boissy d'Anglas, Tronchet, and then there's boulevard Haussmann, which shape the tantalizing layout of one of the world's most exceptional shopping districts. Be sure not to miss the Hermès boutique window displays, so magnificent to have inspired entire books.

Take the time to savor a macaroon from Ladurée and when crossing the rue Royale upon leaving the shop enjoy the outstanding perspective leading you straight to the place de la Concorde and its renowned Obelisk all the way to the triangular facade of the National Assembly building.

The Alexandre III Bridge is right around the corner with its stately and timeless streetlamps, strong symbols of the romanticism still very much a part of this City of Lights, and perhaps Paris' most beautiful bridge… as well as one of the most spectacular settings in the world to appreciate a sunrise in spring.

Best Western Premier Opera Richepanse

14, rue du Chevalier de Saint-George, Paris, France - 75001

Phone: +33 (0) 1 42 60 36 00 Fax: +33 (0) 1 42 60 13 03