Hotel Balzac Paris - News

Interview with Alexandre Scarvelis GM of Hotel Balzac Paris

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:21:00 GMT

Alexandre Scarvelis General Manager of Hotel Balzac Paris Interview

Who are you?

Alexandre Scarvelis, General Manager of Hotel Balzac in Paris, on the Champs-Elysées. Hotel Balzac is a beautiful 5-star luxury boutique hotel made up of of 70 rooms, which opened in July 2007 after 2 years of renovation.

What do you like about what you do?

Meeting new customers and providers everyday is the most thrilling part of my job. Enjoying people from all over the world, with different culture, personal history and occupations. It is really enriching as you have to greet them according to their own traditions, yet they all have to be satisfied and ensure to make them come back.

What don't you like about what you do?

That I am not able to meet all the clients, even though our team is dedicated to make their stay the most enjoyable one, I would like to see them all.

Please tell us about your hotel and your aims with it?

Hotel Balzac is a unique property, mixing the traditional decor with contemporary fabrics along with a gourmet restaurant, rated 3-star at Michelin Guide. A stay at the Balzac is an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

My goal for the Balzac? Make it one of the best hotels in Paris, reaching the top 20 in 2010. We can make it.

Are you working with blogs and if yes, what is your favourite blog?

Not that much actually, except my friends' ones.
I truly think this is a great medium and I will create one for the Balzac for sure.

Your TOP 3 hotel experiences:

Oriental in Bangkok: for its tradition and excellence
Montage in Laguna Beach: the best Californian experience ever
Eden Roc on French Riviera: perfection in service and view on the Mediterranean sea

Your TOP 3 destination experiences:

Provence, as everything there seemed to have been especially created for happiness
South East Asia, especially Thailand for its culture and the kindness of its people
California: from San Francisco to Los Angeles, the true American dream

Your TOP 3 food and/or beverage experiences:

Restaurant Pierre Gagnaire, inside the Hotel, one of the 3 best restaurants in the world
Mon Vieil Ami, gourmet bistrot in the heart of Ile Saint-Louis in Paris
Rosticceria Fiorentina in Roma: genuine, simple, perfect

Can you offer possible readers 3 things they absolutely need to do/visit/see when visiting your city?

Champs-Elysées
Ile Saint-Louis
Trocadéro Gardens

Any comments you want to share with us?

Life is short, enjoy every minute of it.

Originally from The Ring Hotel Press Blog

http://theringpress.wordpress.com/2009/03/24/interview-alexandre-scarvelis/

A new General Manager for Hotel de Vigny

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:30:00 GMT

Alexandre Scarvelis, General Manager of the Balzac Hotel Paris, is now also the General Manager of the hotel's sister property, Hotel De Vigny Paris. Located directly opposite the Balzac Hotel, Hotel De Vigny has quite a different personality as it is far more traditional with many authentic antique pieces of furniture which set the classical theme.

If you fancy a change for lunch, dinner or afternoon tea, you should try the Baretto Restaurant at Hotel De Vigny. The cuisine is refined and traditionally French with a menu offering both light dishes for the health conscious and indulgent options for those that are not! The sumptuous leather seating and oak panelling create a relaxed distinguished Art Deco theme which is very popular with the local Paris business community.

Although the two hotels are different in style and ambience, both properties provide the same high standard of service that one would expect from luxury Paris Hotels. Mr Scarvelis has an eye for detail and you will notice that both hotels have those little extras that make your stay that much more enjoyable, whichever of the hotels you choose to stay in. With both hotels being located just off the Champs Elysees, the concierge teams at both Paris hotels can provide you with all the information you require to get around Paris and see as much as you can of what the City of Paris has to offer.

Mr. Scarvelis looks forward to welcoming you to the Hotel Balzac or De Vigny on your next trip to Paris.

Hotel Balzac Reveals Luxury Roland Garros Offers

Thu, 05 May 2011 16:45:00 GMT

See the Tennis at Roland Garros, Stay in Luxury at Hotel Balzac Paris

Roland Garros, the highlight of the spring tennis season, and the most prestigious event to be held on clay is upon us...

As fans scramble for last minute deals and tickets, The Hotel Balzac is ready to open its doors to tennis enthusiasts looking to make the most of their Roland Garros experience.

And with the 2011 tournament shaping up to be a record breaker of an event, tickets (for those not in the know) are already looking thin on the ground. Luckily, our concierge is on standby to help provide guests with any last minute match tickets they may require.

All you need to do to enjoy this year's tournament - and the beauty of central Paris - is to simply arrive at the Hotel Balzac and let us take care of the rest. A car service can be provided to transport you to and from Roland Garros...

And, when you're done with tennis for the day, the finest nightlife in the world is waiting for you just outside our luxury hotel. The Champs-Elysées is a mere thirty seconds away and you can reach the Arc de Triomphe, Avenue Montaigne and Avenue George V in a matter of minutes.

So if you're looking to attend the Roland Garros in style... and enjoy Paris in luxury, the Hotel Balzac is your perfect starting point. Not only can our concierge help get you tickets for this event... they can also assist with anything you want to do in Paris. Just call +331 44 35 18 10 or email concierge-balzac@jjwhotels.com to see how they can help.

Special Offers During Roland Garros

Right now we're doing a Spring special offer that's perfect for those of you wanting to attend Roland Garros during the day and spend your evenings in luxurious comfort.

Have a look at our Spring offers today... we can't wait to welcome you to the city.

Spring in Paris Champs Elysées (1)

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:49:00 GMT

Spring Hotel Offers in Paris this April and May at Hotel Balzac

Take a look at our Paris Spring hotel offer for a shortbreak with a group of friends, romantic couples or all the family. Our Spring Offer at Hotel Balzac Paris includes:

Accommodation for one or two guests per room
Complimentary extra bed for one child under 12 sharing parents' room
Buffet breakfast
Complimentary 24/24h private secure car parking with valet parking service
VAT & service charge

Come and stay with us this Spring at Hotel Balzac in Paris.

Parks and Gardens in Paris

Famous in Paris at this time of year are the Parks and Gardens with their blooming flowers which give this special scent to the city during spring.

Paris' parks and gardens have long been a source of inspiration for the impressionist painters which so often painted Parisians at picnics in romantic green settings. In Paris, a park is almost never a mere plot of grass reserved for sports, and a garden is a unique selection of flowers and plants. Parisians pride themselves in making their city's parks and gardens places of elegance and artistic detail. Even the romantic gardens have been carefully planned to imitate nature. Take a stroll, picnic, and revel in Paris' best green spots.

Visit one of the new exhibitions, Roland Garros French Open, Jazz Festivals or something completley different...Our concierge can help with ideas for things to do in Paris. Just call on +331 44 35 18 10 or email on concierge-balzac@jj whotels.com

Paris Plages for Summer in the City

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 18:35:00 GMT

21 st July - 21st August 2011 sees a tropical paradise stretch across the streets of Paris in a sandy-shored explosion of summer

These specially created sandy oases have been springing up all around the city since 2002, providing a welcome break from the hustle, bustle... and gloriously hot temperatures of Paris in the summertime.

Throughout this month the edges of the Seine are completely overtaken by pedestrians and sun seekers... giving the buzzing metropolis takes the air of an island utopia.

In the historical section of Paris, one beach stretches across three kilometres of perfectly formed sand from the Louvre to Pont de Sully - coming complete with swimming pool, concert stage... and a pantheon of open air attractions - including: rock climbing, skating, boules and Tai-chi.

There are refreshment stands a plenty, cafes and restaurants, designated play areas for children... and a brilliantly coloured sea of deckchairs just waiting to be used. It's the ideal atmosphere for simply relaxing on the banks of the Seine and watching an urban city carry on with its day to day life as you luxuriate in your island haven.

Further down in the city is the Bassin de la Villette beach, spanning the ground between Rue de Crimée and Rotonde de Ledoux. The expansive lake that is the Bassin de Villette, is a social hub for masses of Parisians and tourists alike... and has to be seen to be believed.

This crisp, clear body of water offers the chance to experience row boats, kayaks, peddle boats and dinghies by the score... whilst on the golden beach there is volleyball, badminton, beach tennis and an array of activities just perfect for children and adults of all ages.

The luxury Hotel Balzac, just off the Champs-Elysees has just released it's summer deals for 2011... click here to discover how you can experience an extra special summertime in Paris... and get a great discount on luxury rooms and suites.

Classique au Vert with Hotel Balzac

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:50:00 GMT

Open Air Weekends of Classical Music Throughout September...

All taking place in the picturesque grounds of the Parc Floral

The Classique au Vert has been running in Paris since the start of August... and will be coming to a close at the end of September. This means you only have a small window of opportunity to come along and see the outdoor musical extravaganza of the Summer.

Taking place at the Parc Floral de Paris in the 12th arrondissement, this classical event is now the talk of the city... and is attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

Performances are taking place between either 13.30 or 14.00 until 16.00 and there is often a chance to meet the artists after each event.

The classical programme for this year is centered around music from the America's. So far audiences have been left staggered and stunned by the depth of intricacy and passion on display each weekend.

Classique au Vert September Shows:

The Cabaret of Imagination Oscar Strasnoy
Saturday, September 3

Appalachian Spring
Sunday, September 4

The New World
Saturday, September 10

Cello's Follies
Sunday, September 11

Symphony Serenades
Saturday, September 17

American Fantasies
Sunday, September 18

Around Piazzolla
Saturday, September 24

The Violins of Hollywood
Sunday, September 25

Combine a Concert with a Relaxing Stay at Hotel Balzac

If you're thinking about attending one of these performances... why not combine it with a stay at the luxury Hotel Balzac?

We're located just off the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and are ideally situated for all the major Parisian attractions. Discover some of the great rates available now.

Vendanges de Montmartre with Hotel Balzac

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 22:03:00 GMT

Vendanges de Montmartre 2011: Experience a Vineyard Festival in the Heart of Paris

The Montmartre wine festival takes place in a picturesque section of the 18th arrondissment... and is instantly recognisable by the white domed Basilica of the Sacre Coeur.

The small vineyard, located in Rue Saint-Vincent, yields around 500 litres of quality wine each year and continues the grand tradition of wine production in this urban district of Paris.

Beats Rhythm and Life in Montmartre

The festival begins early with musical performances, storytelling and street theatre. There is often a reading at Montmartre cemetery and from there people take to the main streets with an air of bonhomie and celebration.

Scores of stalls serve the finest Parisian street food and the local wine flows in abundance. There are tastings, contests, parades, dancing and a real sense of community spirit.

Fireworks, Wine and Artisan Specialties

The event is usually crowned by an intricate fireworks display... and of course plenty more food and wine... with the celebrations often continuing late into the night.

See the Festival... Then Retire to Luxury Hotel Balzac

If you're thinking about attending this unique event - and visiting this romantic city as the seasons begin to change - why not take advantage of the special Autumn Offer available at the luxury Hotel Balzac.

It's the perfect opportunity to see Paris at its most beautiful.

The Stein Collection Comes to Paris

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 16:06:00 GMT

Stay in Paris and see one of the finest art exhibitions the city has seen - The Stein Collection.

Hosted at the Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais, the show features paintings collated and championed by the Stein family - an American dynesty, instrumental in helping to forge the early careers of some of the greatest artists in the world.

Stay at the Balzac and complete the experience

The collection features some of the finest works from Matisse, Cézanne and Picasso - along with Manet, Renoir, Degas and others; it opened in Paris at the start of October and will be running until the January 16th 2012.

You won't see this grand collection together... and in Paris - where it all began - for quite some time. This is an opportunity not to be missed.

Art that must be seen to be believed

Why not combine a stay in Paris with a trip to see one of the finest art collections ever assembled? It's the perfect treat for all the family; and the perfect blend of art, culture and relaxation.

Check out the Best Available Rate at luxury Hotel Balzac here... and experience two of the best things in Paris. Hotel Balzac and The Stein Collection.

Christmas & New Year in Paris with Hotel Balzac

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 18:25:00 GMT

Over the festive period, Paris is certainly a sight to behold. Art & culture... fine dining & nightlife... the shopping, the romance - the city has everything you need for a magical getaway during one of the most stressful periods of the year.

Art & Culture

At present, one of the finest art collections is on display at the recently re-opened Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais - The Stein Collection. The show features a variety of masterful paintings from the private collection of perhaps the biggest art champions the world has ever known. The Stein family were instrumental in forging the early careers of some of the most influential artists, including Picasso Matisse, Cézanne, Manet, Renoir, Degas and others.

Shopping in Paris

Known throughout Europe as one of the finest shopping hubs you will ever see... some shopping districts within the city are a must see. Starting with the Champs Elysees, which boasts some of the finest collections of shopping centres, boutiques and designer outlets anywhere in the city...

And moving on to George V where you can find the flagship Louis Vuitton store nestled magnanimously where the streets intersect. Whilst a short distance away Avenue Montaigne contains a range of exceptional boutiques from the likes of Valentino, Chanel, Dior, Ralph Lauren and Prada.

Staying at Hotel Balzac

You will find one of the classiest hotels in Paris tucked discreetly on to a side street next to the throbbing hub of the Champs Elysees. The dichotomy of the hotel's tranquillity and the frenetic pace of Paris' busiest street is striking - and a perfect balance for a stay in the heart of the city.

The hotel is an ideal retreat from the holiday crowds and makes the perfect base for a romantic experience of a lifetime during the New Year festivities.

Hotel Balzac will also be more than happy to recommend the best restaurants, entertainment and attractions that the city has to offer. In fact the ever-knowledgeable concierge will be delighted to help you get the most out of any trip.

He can help with bookings, tickets, transfers, trips, excursions... and anything you require.

Why not give him a call on +331 44 35 18 10 or email concierge-balzac@jjwhotels.com to see how he can be of assistance.

Latest Winter offers

The latest Christmas, New Year and Winter offers have now been unveiled by luxury Hotel Balzac - take a look at some of the great rates on offer here... but remember, this is one of the most popular times of the year to get away. New Year's Eve deals will be taken up quickly. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

Paris Fashion Week 2012

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 12:52:00 GMT

Paris Fashion Week with Luxury Hotel Balzac

Paris Fashion Week gets its first outing of 2012 this January, when the Men's fall / winter collection -- and the marquee Haute Couture event -- are held in the city between 18 - 26 January.

As the most stylish people in the industry flock to Paris along with the voyeurs, connoisseurs and debonairs... the Parisian streets take on an air of the Fashion Week runways themselves, to form one of the most beautiful, well dressed throngs of people you're ever likely to encounter.

The Biggest Shows & the Greatest Designers

These eager fashionistas will all be clamouring for the first glimpse of the new designs from luxury brands such as: Dior, Givenchy, Alexandre Vauthier, Valentino, Jean Paul Gautier, Maxime Simoens, Christophe Josse, Chanel, Maurizo Galante, Yiquing Yin, Valli... and a host of usual suspects, first timers and breakthrough designers.

If you're thinking about joining them for the first Paris Fashion Week of the season, you can check out the full schedule of shows here.

Where to Stay During Fashion Week

Hotel Balzac is the perfect place to base yourself for any Parisian activity. Centrally located in the 8th arrondissement, just off the Champs-Elysées - this luxury boutique hotel is walking distance away from many of the major fashion shows.

Our concierge is always on hand to give you any information about the city, and to try and assist with anything you'd like to do, see and experience whilst in the city.

the luxury Hotel Balzac is currently offering a very attractive winter offer, perfect for if you're thinking about coming to Paris between now and February. Take a look at the details here...

We can't wait to greet you.

Pierre Gagnaire Signs 12 Year Deal With Hotel Balzac

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:20:00 GMT

Three Michelin Stars, A Flagship Restaurant...
and a Home at Luxury Hotel Balzac

World renowned chef, Pierre Gagnaire, has just put pen to paper on a deal to keep his eponymous restaurant at Hotel Balzac for the next twelve years.

The restaurant, which specialises in modern French cuisine, has set the standard for iconic, fusion cooking around the world... and Pierre Gagnaire describes the ethos behind his vision as: Tourné vers demain mais soucieux d'hier (Facing tomorrow but respectful of yesterday).

Breaking Through Boundaries Around the World

Since beginning his illustrious career in the town of St Etienne (where he won his first set of three Michelin Stars), Chef Gagnaire has become a yardstick for innovation, passion and quality. Alongside his venture at the Hotel Balzac, he devotes his head chef expertise and services to:

Twist at the Manderin Oriental in Las Vegas, Sketch in London, Gaya in Paris, Pierre Gagnaire Pour les Airelles in Courchevel, Les Menus in Moscow, Pierre in Hong Kong, Pierre Gagnaire A Seoul in Seoul, Reflets in Dubai and Pierre Gagnaire - Tokyo in Tokyo

Looking Forward to Twelve More Years of Innovation

Having been based at Hotel Balzac for the previous fifteen years, it's going to be a real treat to see what the next twelve deliver. One thing we can say with reasonable certainty though, is that Pierre Gagnaire will continue to remain at the cutting edge of contemporary cuisine - and whatever he does next - is guaranteed to be exciting.

We hope that you can find the time to come along and share in the experience.