Buddha-Bar Hotel Paris

The Scene

Located in the prestigious Elysee district, Buddha-Bar Hotel Parisl is close to several of the city's main attractions, including Place de la Concorde, Les Jardins des Tuilleries (Tuilleries Garden) and the Champs-Elysees. Most importantly though, the hotel prides itself for being mere steps from one of the French capital's most coveted addresses when it comes to fashion and art: Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honore, which boasts one of the highest numbers of fashion boutiques, designer workshops and art galleries in all of Paris.

The Concept

Buddha-Bar Hotel Paris openly credits itself as being more than just a hotel---it's a lifestyle, it says. In all honesty, this couldn't be any truer. From the moment you step inside, you're reminded that the Buddha is watching you…or watching over you, let's hope. But by now, most of the planet is familiar with the brand and its concept: a journey of exotic "east meets west" decor, non-stop quality electronic music being mixed, cutting-edge cuisine and bar, and top-quality facilities and service. The visionary behind the brand was Raymond Visan, a Frenchman who first opened the original Paris digs back in 1996. Unfortunately, Mr. Visan passed in 2010, but his legacy and vision was passionately carried on by his wife and daughter.

The Look

The décor, as expected, ties old-world sumptuousness to neo-Asian aesthetics featuring plenty of dragons and red Chinese lanterns spread throughout rooms and common areas. Even the free-standing bathtubs come dragon-ornamented. The building itself dates back to the 18^th century and served as a town mansion for the king's financier. As such, it still conserves some of its original features, such as the hand-carved moldings and frescoes, various ornaments and the heritage staircases, which have been spruced up by designer Francois Wepler in a mod black and white. Finishing off the exotic journey vibe are the stone floors, which were brought from Nepal, and the imperial (also dragon-themed) carpets in golden yellow, a color reserved for the emperor back in time. Equally worthy of mention are the lounge, Le Q4tre, which is conceived around the four elements, and the restaurant, Le Vraymonde, which offers innovative sexy cuisine by acclaimed French-Senegalese chef Rougui Dia.

In Short

With all this going for the hotel, it's hard to resist the appeal of the Buddha, even if it has become a bit too hyped-up (as some would argue). Truth be told, the spirit of the brand is pretty infectious and leaves us wanting more every time we leave.