Kuching, Malaysia and Borneo

Located on the promenade at the heart of Kuching’s historic quarter, within easy walking distance of Kuching’s main sights, this suave, 24-roomed boutique hotel was converted from a pair of 19th-century shophouses. Its owners cleverly managed to upcycle fragments of the antique building into the interiors of the individually styled rooms and suites which, along with pieces of rustic furniture, add great character to the opulent retro décor. Public space is limited to a small library on the first floor, but you can relax on your own balcony overlooking the adjacent palace or terracotta rooftops of the bazaar.