Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Thailand

Being a famous grand colonial hotel, many celebrated guests have graced its doors, from royalty and presidents to Hollywood stars and famous colonial writers. The original Mandarin Oriental building provides a real flavor of those old days with ceiling fans, carved balconies replete with climbing jasmine, old fashioned shuttered windows, intricately decorated four-poster beds, and textured walls.

Pamper yourself in the Ayurvedic penthouse at the Oriental spa, voted ’best spa in the world’ by Travel & Leisure magazine, set within a restored century-old teakwood house.

We like: Its sheer opulence and rich history.

Best for: A luxurious urban escape.