Tehran, Iran

One of the country’s top half-dozen hotels, the Espinas Palace in the northwest of the city is suave and modern – closer in feel to a contemporary Western boutique hotel than any other in the capital, with quality bedding, flowers in the rooms and designer furniture. The location, on the fringes of Tehran close to the mountains, means you’re away from the smog and traffic pollution, and the views are terrific, especially from the multi-cuisine restaurant. There’s also an Iranian restaurant serving local dishes, accompanied most evenings by traditional Persian music.