Chennai, South India, India

The Taj hotel chain is a byword for ‘luxury’ in India, and this landmark property in the heart of Chennai is no exception. Clad in cream-coloured marble, it rises ten floors above street level – the views from rooms on the upper storeys are fabulous – and offers a welcome haven from the sultry heat and commotion of the state capital. Relax in the large courtyard pool, or in any of the half dozen restaurants, coffee shops, bars and lounges on site.