Sandra‘s Closet

View from the top

The Mandarin Oriental, Paris has officially opened its doors yesterday. The new prestigious hotel is situated in a 30s art déco building on one of the most fashionable streets in the world, Rue Saint-Honoré, surrounded by high end fashion, haute couture and steps from the Louvre.

Rooms

The 99 rooms and 39 suites were conceived by distinguished architect Sybille de Margerie, designer of LVMH-owned Cheval Blanc. Patrick Jouin, who designed Jules Verne and Alain Ducasse at Plaza Athénée, designed the restaurant and bar spaces. 2-star Michelin chef Thierry Marx is in charge for your dining experiences.

The bar

The in-house spa works with Guerlain products and offers an indoor pool and a well-equipped fitness center.

The pool

I’ve just received notice about an exclusive grand opening offer. When booking („J’aime Paris“ rate starting at  €765) between July 17 and August 28, 2011, you will be treated to a €300 voucher per room, per stay or a €500 per stay per suite to be used in the restaurant or the spa.

I love brand-new hotels especially when you are one of the first guests in a room!
And isn’t Paris always worth a visit?

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental

What happens when you step into a dream? Or rather, what happens when you dream inside a dream?

Last week when I was in Milan, I stayed at the Maison Moschino. You are more than likely familiar with the Italian fashion brand Moschino and their second line Moschino Cheap and Chic but did you know that they also have a fantastic hotel?

Situated in an old neoclassical railway station on Viale Monte Grappa, 12, the hotel is the result of the creative work led by Rossella Jardini and Moschino’s creative team.

The minute you enter the lobby, you are  transported into a fantasy world. Moschino’s playful language of fashion has been transformed and adapted to design fanciful settings and surreal rooms that each tell their very own fairytale.

Divided into four floors, the 65 rooms and junior suites are all different. Magical and whimsical details reminiscent of Enchanted Forests and children’s favorites like Alice In Wonderland, Little Red Riding Hood and Candyland are the themes of some of the rooms. Other elements include walls climbing with ivy, cushions and lampshades covered in roses or ribbons, ballgown beds and mystery keys. The hotel also has a restaurant and a spa. Prices are very reasonable.

Photos: © Maison Moschino

My room could not have been a better match for me. I was sleeping in the closet. Welcome to 404 and enjoy exploring all those little illusory touches.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht