Luang Prabang, Laos

Originally built for a Laotian prince, this yellow-ochre mansion in central Luang Prabang has all the grace and languid charm you’d associate with old Indochina. Set in impeccably manicured grounds, it holds just 25 rooms and manages to be cosy and relaxing, as well as grand, blending antique and modern features with seamless elegance: the wifi and air-con sit unobtrusively with the creaky parquet floors. Outside, you’ve a choice of two indulgent pools – a boon for a hotel of this size. And the restaurant, run by the daughter of the last King of Laos’ personal chef, is regarded as one of the best in town.