Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Borneo

Back in Malaysia’s pre-war boom years, the Majestic was the hotel in KL, often mentioned in the same breath as Raffles of Singapore, Bombay’s Taj Mahal and the Strand, Rangoon. After a lavish refit, it once again occupies pride of place in the city, offering a luxurious, cool and nostalgic haven amid the humid heat of the capital. If you can stretch to it, go for a suite in the original Majestic Wing, which has preserved a wonderfully vintage feel – though in truth, the Art-Deco-inspired black-marble-and-chrome look of the modern Tower Wing is no less elegant. Relax in the stylish courtyard pool, Cigar Room (smoking jacket by request), or British-themed spa.