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| Prague -
Czech Republic |
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Society -
Extraordinary
July - 2007 |
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6 Stars
& 5 Stripes
Overall - 'Hotel & Service' |
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The
Ultimate Award:
Seven Stars and
Stripes® |
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| The summer temperatures were to our surprise most
pleasant, by any means in mid July, a great time to discover the historic,
fascinating city of Prague. After landing at the newly renovated airport, our
casual-elegantly dressed chauffeur welcomed us in the main lobby and guided us
quickly to his shiny polished Mercedes Limo, which was conveniently parked at
the main entrance. From here we arrived at the Hotel Le Palais within less than
half an hour, located in an exclusive, quiet residential area and within
walking distance of the famous Wenceslas Square and the National Museum. The
Hotel Le Palais, which opened in 2002, may still be considered as a newcomer in
the world of the global luxury hotel market, though the hotel building is
dating back to 1897 and was originally created in the distinct architecture
style of Belle Époque. Our check-inn was flawlessly executed and equally
unspoiled appeared the four buildings from the outside with their interior
architecture and decorations providing an exquisite combination of stunning
sophistication, combined with the fine points of modern technology. |
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| My accommodations turned out to be the Presidential
Suite, one of a dozen splendidly decorated elegant suites of which two have
open fireplaces. All rooms and suites were luxuriously designed and furnished
in 19th century style with every modern amenity one could possibly think of and
fabulous, precious marble bathrooms. With a total of 72 rooms, the Hotel Le
Palais is able to maintain its personal touch, but still appears as a boutique
hotel with contemporary necessities, of which none is interfering with its
charming old world style. General Manager Jirí Gajdošík came
across relaxed hands-on and experienced, though young in years, already a pro
through and through. The Le Palais is part of 'Vienna International' - a group
founded in 1989 that owns and operates several exclusive hotels in
Europe. |
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“I experienced the very essence and unique charm of le
Palais’ splendor, the house itself with it fabulous location
and an
unforgettable sumptuous breakfast on the terrace while the birds where singing
- overlooking the amazing city - truly magnificent.” ~ TB |
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I must recommend the relaxing
Hot Stone massage, which I experienced at the health club and spa through the
trained hands of Karl right after our arrival. This treatment involves placing
heated Lava stones onto the skin and pressure points, applied with natural and
aromatherapy oils. The heat from the smooth stones is meant to increase blood
flow and circulation and makes a great starter treatment for jetlagged guests.
An inviting Jacuzzi allowed us an invigorating underwater massage at our own
pace; and sauna, steam room, aromatherapy shower and fitness center got us
finally into the right frame of mind for dinner. We had reservations for a
Dégustations menu at Le Papillon and were excited. I showered and
changed quickly for the evening but couldn't help it, and opened an exquisite
little red linen box on my nightstand. It included two superb nougat wafer
pralines, which I had to finish off, because they were to die for and were
still captivating my palate when I entered the candlelit, romantic
restaurant. |
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| Le Papillon's summer terrace is placed to the side of
the hotel, overlooking the Nusle Valley displaying lush, green hilltops and
colorful red rooftops. Right below is, a one-of-a-kind setting and at night, an
unforgettable picture, when the enchanted city sparkles in a million
lights. |
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“General Manager Jirí Gajdošík came across
hand-on and experienced,
though young in years, already a pro through and
through.” ~ TB |
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by
Thorsten Buehrmann & Rolf Staehler
Editor: Ingrid
Lemme
Editor-in-Chief: John Lomitola |
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| © 2007 ~ Seven Stars and Stripes, Inc. |
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