Well since I could not get PH Vendome on FFN around New Years and their regular rates were around 500 Euros, I discovered IC Le Grand Paris down the street above Cafe de la Paix on the Depart 2 for 1 special. Very nice when I got a jr. Suite overlooking the Opera Garnier.
Trying my luck for PH Vendome again mid April and London Churchill mid-Feb right now. Wish me luck.