The Peninsula Hong Kong

The Peninsula is the original Hong Kong luxury hotel, still its grandest, and is the archetypal Asian colonial hotel, still serving afternoon tea, British Empire style, in its massive gilded lobby. You have not experienced truly world-class service until you have been waited on by an army of attentive hotel staffers — in places like these you half expect to be fanned with a giant palm frond, or carried from place to place by a team of bellhops; but don't fret, for as soon as you need privacy, they will vanish without a trace.

The Peninsula claims to be in the heart of Kowloon's business and entertainment district; this is true, but it's also worth pointing out that it's a considerably less overwhelming scene than Hong Kong Island's city center. Kowloon is on the mainland, but in our opinion, this is an advantage, as the hotel is filled with relaxed travelers, equal parts business and pleasure, and the view of Hong Kong island is stunning, far preferable from this side. There is a ferry to the Central district, which is within walking distance of the hotel, and compared to the chaos on the island, the Peninsula is an oasis of calm.

This hotel is often mentioned among the world's best city hotels, and with its spacious, classic rooms and suites (and the aforementioned service), it's easy to see why. The guest room experience is augmented by the latest technological conveniences, as well as the low-tech but spectacular views, and after a substantial renovation in 2013, it all feels as fresh as it does classic.

As in any hotel of this breed, there are more restaurants than the average traveler has time or appetite to sample: from Felix, the Philippe Starck-designed rooftop restaurant, to Gaddi's (Far East gourmet), the Verandah (Continental), Chesa (authentic Swiss), Spring Moon Chinese Restaurant, and Imasa, serving contemporary Japanese cuisine. Dining is available all day in the Lobby, accompanied by a piano or string quartet.

Additional facilities include conference and function rooms, ideal for hosting anything from seminars to wedding receptions, and the Peninsula Spa, fully outfitted with an indoor pool and health club, offering the latest developments in forcible relaxation.