Walking into the Hotel Fauchere feels more
like walking into someone's home than into a hotel. Standing on
the marble lobby floor, I almost felt a pang of guilt for having
arrived empty-handed, without a gift for the host.

During a recent weekend stay, I
found myself tiptoeing when walking up and down the stairs. I
found myself keeping my voice down. I admit that I rarely make
the bed when I stay in hotels, but at the Fauchere, I
felt compelled to tidy up before leaving my room. I actually took
the time to dress for dinner.  And in the
dining room, I found myself sitting upright.

It's not that the hotel is
uptight, or at all stuffy.  It emanates a quiet
elegance and warmth. Staying at the Fauchere, I felt...