david22 ... you've just become my favorite person on this forum. I knew there had to be someone else out there lurking in the hallways snapping photos of the emergency exit plans. If you're in the market for FSGV layouts, I've got you covered . I can even tell you which room #s to request!

it does seem that storage is less than ideal in that suite. Not terrible, but I know there are lower category rooms that have significantly more storage space, i.e. walk in closets, etc. The inconsistencies within categories in historic properties is always an issue, but it seems to be especially true of Crillon which is what has typically kept me from pulling the trigger and staying there when pricing was more even between the two properties. I don't love surprises especially when spending exorbitant amounts of money for a stay, and even when requesting a specific layout, you never know what you'll ultimately end up with particularly as a first time guest.

I am well familiar and share your sentiments with respect to the pricing in Paris. Unfortunately my love of the city allows me to rationalize some of it to an extent, much to the anger of my wallet. it also helps that all of my recent stays have been at FSGV which continues to deliver nearly flawless service which tricks me into believing I'm not being ripped off and I've yet to return home thinking I made the wrong hotel choice. That said, now that FSGV is undergoing renovation and operating with limited inventory their rates have reached levels that are simply stupid--even by Paris standards. The rational part of my brain knows I shouldn't, but nevertheless, I'm all but certain that I'll end up sticking with the devil that I know (and love) and will continue to pay the premium. Regardless of the fact that you were under the weather, tired, and a bit cranky, the service lapses you describe are unacceptable. I'd rather have an amazing stay in a lower category room than a mediocre to bad one in a suite. I too fell ill last time I was in Paris and I have to say I don't think I've ever enjoyed being sick quite was much as I did at the George V.

Do you have other go-to's you like to stay in Paris? The best value in my opinion at the moment is at Le Bristol, but despite its reputation for being extremely "Parisian" it oddly reminds me too much of the Peninsula Beverly Hills with all the florals. I would love to try Cheval Blanc just to check it off the list, but can't get over its location and the constant traffic in the area. I was hoping Crillon would finally present a reasonable compromise especially with slightly more attractive pricing and higher category rooms to boot, but this is very much in doubt. Fortunately I still have plenty of time to think about it and will undoubtedly be spending an unhealthy amount of time studying those floor plans. Thank you again!!!