25 The Stay Guide: Paris, France
Paris palace hotels sit at the top of the luxury tier, but stepping inside reveals how differently each one actually feels. In this Stay Guide, Heartfelt Travel founder and Travel Advisor Jaclyn D'Esposito joins Paris-based luxury Travel Advisor Jessie Leventhal to share firsthand perspective on how the city's most prestigious properties truly compare.
From icons like Ritz Paris and Four Seasons Hotel George V to boutique standouts like La Réserve Paris and modern disruptors like Cheval Blanc Paris, Jaclyn and Jessie unpack service nuances, client fit, and the evolving definition of "palace." They move beyond Michelin stars and formal design to explore vibe, energy, and how each property curates an entirely different experience for guests.
Travel Advisors will leave with sharper instincts for matching clients, not just to prestige, but to the palace that aligns with how they want to feel in Paris.
Key Takeaways
Why the official palace distinction matters less than understanding how a property actually feels to walk into, and how to use that in client conversations
How to read the difference between formal and residential service styles across palace properties, from white-glove George V to come-as-you-are La Réserve
How to position Ritz Paris and Cheval Blanc with ultra-luxury clients even though neither currently holds the official palace designation
Why asking clients how important a great hotel bar is ranks among the most valuable questions in a Paris discovery call
How subcategories like old-world classic, modern design-forward, culinary-driven, and boutique help Travel Advisors match clients to the palace that fits how they want to feel in Paris
About the guest:
Jaclyn D’Esposito is the founder of Heartfelt Travel, a luxury-first travel advisory firm specializing in highly personalized, destination-driven journeys. A former corporate attorney with 10 years of experience, she brings rigor, risk management, and advocacy to her travel design process. Jaclyn personally scouts hotels before recommending them and is particularly known for her deep knowledge of Paris and its palace properties.
Jessie Leventhal is a Paris-based luxury Travel Advisor specializing in bespoke, design-forward itineraries across Europe and beyond. Originally from the United States, she relocated to Paris, where on-the-ground access and an editorial eye shape her approach to curating meaningful travel experiences. Jessie is known for matching clients with hotels that reflect soul, character, and emotional resonance.
