Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xi'an

The starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an is one of the oldest cities in China — which, of course, is really saying something. But until fairly recent developments brought an influx of industry and business to the city, the imperial capital didn’t see many international visitors. Now with the Economist naming Xi’an one of China’s thirteen emerging megalopolises, the game’s officially on. It’s no wonder the French-owned luxury hotel chain Sofitel has opened multiple locations here, most recently the Sofitel Legend Peoples Grand Hotel Xi’an.

Lest you get the wrong idea, picturing a megalith of a hotel to fit the scale of the megalopolis, let’s be clear: the Sofitel Legend only has 71 rooms, and history to boot. Located right in the heart of the city, on Renmin Square, the building originally opened its doors in 1953 as a state guesthouse. Today, it’s still an imposing structure surrounded by perfectly landscaped gardens, but the interiors have been thoroughly refurbished to business traveler standards. The design, though elegant, is a bit of a mix: there are elements of French and Russian architecture, high molded ceilings, Art Deco details and Chinese artworks. Guest rooms and suites are noticeably spacious, and more romantic than you might expect. All come with Sofitel’s signature king-sized bed, made up with 600 thread-count sheets and goose down duvets, pillow menus, silk bathrobes and sleek bathrooms stocked with Hermes products. Suites are extravagant in both size and style, with dining rooms and kitchenettes. But even the most standard room comes with 24-hour butler service, an especially useful amenity when you’re (inevitably) jet-lagged.

In line with the hotel’s cultural eclecticism, the restaurant — Dolce Vita, which doubles as the breakfast venue — is Italian, not Chinese. Perhaps the most atmospheric space in the hotel is the 1953 Lobby Lounge, a throwback to the building’s original look, serving afternoon tea and cocktails. The more opulent Louis XIII Bar stocks rare cognacs, perfect if you’re entertaining — or better yet, being entertained by someone with an expense account.