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Grand but worn around the edges lends to the feel of a palatial old mansion
Don't visit with the expectation of shiny and soundproof. This is an old palace. One must keep this in mind when booking and visiting the Ritz Paris. Creaky closet doors that don't shut all of the way, and antiquated, old bathrooms that cannot contain water in the shower will leave one who likes "new and shiny" very frustrated.
Contrarily, I thoroughly enjoyed the palace. Some floors have incredibly high ceilings, like the first floor. My room was nothing special, however, and had a 10-foot ceiling. The hotel is often criticized for having too much grandeur; I say there is no such thing. Please see the photos attached that illustrate just how beautiful it really is. For the beauty, it is worthwhile. The palace's living room on the first floor is one of the more beautiful rooms I have seen.
The only thing that must get fixed is the air conditioning. The central system appeared to be at least thirty years old, and, notwithstanding all of the fiddling I did with the knobs, the warm air coming from the vent refused to vary.
The only shortcoming of the Paris Ritz is that is has no nightlife anywhere near it and is in a "deadzone" at night. For that sole reason, I would not stay there again.
One funny note: when I first entered the room, classical music was playing beautifully through in-room speakers. Volume didn't work, though. Upon close examination, I discovered the radio was nothing more than a cheap car stereo that had broken controls, hidden behind a panel. Housekeeping staff removed the car stereo and brought another, which had the wrong faceplate and didn't work. Housekeeping finally removed the unit.
It is one of the few palaces where one can stay and feel like royalty. The included breakfast is huge and excellent, although I made the mistake of ordering an Evian water which was $12 euro. Ouch!
Bar Vendôme - le Ritz Paris
That's moi just outside the Ritz Hotel, Paris
