Kathmandu, Nepal

One of only a handful of international-grade five stars in Kathmandu, this smart hotel used to be the first choice of visiting heads of state before a couple of more opulent competitors sprang up across town.

It’s now a firm favourite with high-end foreign tour groups, as much for its location (within 20–25-mins’ walk of Durbar Square) as the beautiful grounds, which hold a lovely large pool. The rooms are modern in design, with a few Nepali twists, and the Indian restaurant excellent.