ST JAMES AND ALBANY

A former royal residence dating back to the 17th century, the Hotel Clarion Saint James and Albany is set in attractive gardens in the heart of the Right Bank. The hotel, with its opulent chandeliers and large windows, is situated opposite the beautiful Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre Museum, one kilometer from the Champs-Elysees. The 195 air-conditioned guestrooms, feature warm, period- style fabrics and furnishings, and overlook the inner courtyards or quiet side streets. All rooms are equipped with cable television, pay movies, direct-dial phones, high-speed Internet access and minibars. Bathrooms are modern and complete with hair dryers and make-up mirrors.

After a day of meetings or sight-seeing, guests can enjoy alfresco dining at the Restaurant Le Noailles, open for lunch and dinner. Set in elegant formal surroundings, the restaurant serves traditional French dishes with a touch of eastern spice. After dinner guests can retire for brandies in the English-style bar with its soft leather lounging chairs, or enjoy a quiet drink on the garden patio. Guests can work out at the fitness center or take a dip in the 17-meter indoor pool, before relaxing in the sauna, steam room and spa. The hotel's business services include conference rooms with audio-visual equipment, wireless Internet access, secretarial services and exhibit space. Guests can make use of the tour assistance and currency exchange before a day of sightseeing in Paris. Situated in the heart of the French capital, guests are just one kilometer from the Notre-Dame Cathedral and two kilometers from the Eiffel Tower. The easiest way to get around Paris is via the fast, cheap and reliable Metro service.