The Most Luxurious Way to Experience London and Paris in One Extended Weekend

Over the past ten years, I've had the pleasure of traveling to the United Kingdom and across continental Europe numerous times, experiencing trips that varied from 48 hours to four months. However, it was in the fall of 2022 that I uncovered my favorite method for exploring two of the largest cities — London and Paris — and now it’s hard to imagine traveling any other way.

My journey across the Atlantic began at Newark Liberty International Airport, where I managed to fit in some work in the British Airways lounge prior to boarding my seven-hour flight to Heathrow. In my early twenties, I would typically opt for the cheapest tickets from budget airlines, but this time I was flying in the newly relaunched British Airways Club World cabin. As soon as I settled into my seat, I realized this flight was going to be a completely different experience than I was accustomed to — and I eagerly began to explore the cabin's features and amenities.

On red-eye flights, I have two strict priorities: maintaining my skincare routine and ensuring I arrive as rested and prepared as possible. Naturally, the first thing that caught my attention was the ample space and privacy I had. A sliding suite door provided a barrier between my seat, which transformed into a fully lie-flat bed, and the rest of the cabin, along with generous storage for my travel essentials. Once airborne, I could spread out, apply my hydrating products, take out my contacts, and get comfortable — all without disturbing other passengers. Each seat in Club World is also equipped with a table, power ports, and luxurious White Company bedding for ultimate comfort.

While I usually aim to sleep through the entire transatlantic flight, I couldn’t miss one of the highlights of flying in Club World: sampling the seasonal menu. “Expertly crafted by British Airways’ culinary team,” the selections are a significant upgrade from typical snacks — I enjoyed sesame-seared tuna, fresh fruit, and a cheese platter before drifting off for the remainder of the flight. When I woke up, refreshed and free from the usual in-flight discomfort, we were just 30 minutes from landing — ready to head to my first destination: Shangri-La The Shard.

True to its name, the London branch of Shangri-La is situated within The Shard, the striking 72-story skyscraper just south of the River Thames. The hotel occupies levels 34 to 52, and it was clear from the moment I arrived that breathtaking views are the highlight of this five-star establishment — even under the typical gloomy London sky. Elevated above the city's hustle and bustle, the hotel’s unique perspective, offered through its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, allows guests to appreciate the vast beauty of London from an entirely new angle. While many visitors, myself included, come for the stunning skyline, they also stay for the signature Shangri-La experience, which includes exquisite dining, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional service. From the sky-high afternoon tea at TĪNG and specialty cocktails at GŎNG bar, to a morning swim in the Infinity Sky Pool with views of Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral, every aspect of the hotel captures the essence of London while elevating it — in every sense of the word.

As I prepared to check out of The Shard and make my way across the English Channel to Paris, my next and final destination, I couldn’t help but reflect on my first experience visiting both cities in a single trip. Back then, I took an overnight Megabus from Victoria Coach Station to Gare de Bercy for around $25 — an experience I have no desire to repeat. This time, I was booked on the faster, more comfortable, and infinitely better option: the Eurostar. In just a couple of hours, I arrived in the City of Lights, eager to embark on my next adventure: two nights at Shangri-La Paris.

Imagine a luxurious Parisian hotel, and you might picture Shangri-La Paris. Located in the 16th arrondissement, this elegant establishment showcases a blend of French and Asian influences, along with a rich history as the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, Napoleon I’s great-nephew. The hotel embodies both grandeur and warmth, featuring high ceilings and marble corridors adorned with lush greenery, while freshly baked pastries sit beside Ming Dynasty vases, imperial insignias, and sparkling chandeliers.

Before I arrived in Paris, I researched a bit by browsing through the hotel’s Instagram and tagged posts. I quickly realized that the location of this Shangri-La property, much like its London counterpart, is crucial to the experience. Each of the 100 rooms and suites offers views of either the tree-lined Avenue d’Iéna or the Eiffel Tower; if you’re fortunate (or request it upon booking), you might enjoy a private terrace to sip your morning espresso and savor croissants. My research also indicated that to fully appreciate the luxury of Shangri-La Paris, I should engage in two key experiences: a rejuvenating treatment at CHI, The Spa, and dining at either Michelin-starred Shang Palace or La Bauhinia, where meals are served beneath a stunning glass dome designed by architect Maurice Gras.

After a day filled with sightseeing and shopping on my last day in Europe, capped off with a soothing massage and an exquisite multi-course dinner, I felt utterly relaxed, satisfied, and certain that this was the most luxurious way to experience both London and Paris.