Originally Posted by
JohnRain
The location of the Pen in Paris isn't ideal indeed, but neither is Shangri-La's. The rooms at the Pen don't make you feel like you're in Paris, but the public areas do and from the exterior it's definitely a beautiful, classic French building (like the SL). The MO on the other hand has a good location but has by far the ugliest facade of any 5 star luxury hotel in Paris. Why they decided to put a hotel with such heritage in a nondescript office building is beyond me. Service levels don't even come close to Asian standards at all 3 Asian properties in Paris (MO, SL, Pen).
Unless the rates suggest otherwise, I'd always prefer a classic French palace hotel like the Plaza, Meurice, Ritz or of course GV.
While I agree that the location isn't great for a tourist, as a regular visitor I actually prefer the location of the Pen. I often stay at the Lord Baltimore near there which is a nice boutique hotel. But I agree with the characterization here. I think these three Asian chain hotels are there to support the corporate contracts that these chains have and the people who stay at these chains no matter what. But if you have freedom of choice, the classic hotels you mention are a better option.