Night 1 & 2: Hôtel Negresco Nice, France Built in 1912 by Henri Negresco, this palace hotel is the most famous hotel in Nice and a true standout on the French Riviera. Located in the city center facing the sea, it is one of world’s few privately owned palaces and it retains its palatial opulence. Each of the 121 guestrooms has been individually decorated, drawing inspiration from the most outstanding periods of French history and art. All guestrooms offer air conditioning, LCD television and ADSL Internet access. The public rooms are exquisite and the Salon Royal rotunda, with its amazing Baccarat chandelier, is especially noteworthy. A unique “living museum,” the history of France from the Renaissance to the 21st Century is evident in its fine art collection showcasing works of French artists throughout the hotel. This proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World offers a winning combination of unabashed luxury and impeccable service.
Night 3 & 4: Hôtel Jules César Arles, France This lovely former 17th-century Carmelite convent is located in the center of Arles, within walking distance of the town’s most noteworthy sights. The interior truly reflects the atmosphere of its setting in the heart of Provence with provençaux fabrics and intriguing antique and rustic furniture. Indulgent guestrooms feature air conditioning, bathrobes, mini bar, a safe deposit box and TV. The lovely outdoor swimming pool is inviting, as are the delightful cloister and Provençal gardens. Cuisine in the Lou Marques restaurant features fresh local fruits and vegetables, local cheeses and fine French wine. A proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Hôtel Jules César provides a memorable experience for its guests.
Nights 5, 6 & 7: Hotel du Louvre Paris, France The Hotel du Louvre offers a most convenient location across from the Palais Royal and just two blocks from I. M. Pei’s famous pyramid at the Musée Louvre. Beautiful views of Paris surround the hotel. Built in 1855 to house important visitors to the Universal Exposition, the Hotel du Louvre was the first luxury hotel in France. Recently renovated, this lovely boutique hotel is warmed by rich colors, Directoire architecture and modern style, offering an elegantly cozy ambiance and excellent service, both of which are greatly appreciated by its sophisticated guests. Nicely decorated guestrooms are chic and comfortable, with baths featuring Annick Goutal beauty products. There is a well-equipped fitness center offering everything one needs for a satisfying workout. The Defender Bar, with its elegant, Napoleon III-inspired décor, is popular meeting place for local artists and businessmen.
*Nights 5, 6 & 7: Millennium Hotel Paris Opéra Paris, France There couldn’t be a more convenient or pleasant place to stay in Paris than the Millennium Hotel Paris Opéra. From its location in the heart of Paris, the Louvre, the Place de Vendome and the Champs Elysées – and of course, the famous Paris Opéra House – are just a short walk away, and there’s even a Metro station close by. Modern comfort defines guest rooms that feature air conditioning, mini bar, satellite TV, coffee- and tea-making facilities and more. The Brasserie Haussmann has offers both terrace dining on the Boulevard Haussmann and an open kitchen where you can watch your order being prepared. Bar La Bibliotheque is a cozy place to dine on items from the Brasserie by the fireplace.   * Tours departing May 10, June 14, September 20 and October 18 will stay at the Millennium Hotel Paris Opéra on nights 5 – 7.
**Nights 5, 6 & 7: Hotel Lutetia Paris, France Built in 1910 in the heart of Saint-Germain des Prés on the fashionable Left Bank, Hôtel Lutetia Paris was the first Art-Deco hotel in Paris. It was a favorite of many noted painters and writers as well as Charles de Gaulle, who spent his honeymoon at the hotel. The stylish guest rooms evoke images of the Art Deco period although the décor reflects a very contemporary style. The hotel’s gourmet restaurant, Paris, is frequented by sophisticated local fashion designers, editors, journalists, and politicians.   ** Tours departing September 13 and 27 will stay at the Hotel Lutetia on nights 5 – 7.