Banyan Tree

With only 55 rooms, the Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur is boutique by city hotel standards. That means every room is generously sized, with light and bright decor and expansive citywide panoramas. Most come with spectacular views of the Petronas Towers or the KL Tower – or both – and all of the retreats and suites have huge soaking tubs right next to the window, so you can completely relax beside dreamy views. The Sanctuary Suites even have them in your bedroom, with the Petronas Towers so close you feel you could reach out a soap-sudded hand and touch them.

Everything in your room is aimed to soothe and slow the pulse, from the spa-style bathrooms (whose rainfalls showers feature calming colour-changing LED lights) to the giant cloud-soft beds. You can even choose your own room aroma from Banyan Tree’s gorgeous range of signature scents; walk in to heavenly smells like peppermint and eucalyptus, jasmine and sandalwood or rose geranium and rosewood.

There’s only one restaurant at the Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur but boy does the Horizon Grill serve up some fine city vistas along with sumptuous food. You’ll be dining alongside views of the Petronas Towers and the KL Tower, which is reason enough that to pick one of the outside tables every morning and evening (you can dine inside as well). Seafood and grilled meats are the speciality, while we’d implore you to try a local dish as well, with meals like nasi lemak given fine-dining facelifts.

For a cocktail at sunset, there’s nowhere better in the city to head to than Vertigo. As well as being at the summit of the Banyan Tree building, it’s also the highest rooftop bar in Kuala Lumpur. A team of mixologists are on hand to create your perfect drink and if you’re feeling peckish, there’s a delicious selection of Asian-inspired tapas. For lighter bites, Altitude offers all-day afternoon teas and an excellent wine menu, while Bake is a French-inspired patisserie where you can pick up a delicious pastry or cake.

The Banyan Tree brand is well known for its sensual spas and the Kuala Lumpur edition is no different. It’s more of a sanctuary for the senses when you’re in need of a boost, after you’ve explored the explosion of culture you’ve enjoyed during your day in the city. The techniques used are based on traditional Asian therapies, and the spa menu boasts a soothing array of scrubs, massages and other treatments to revitalise your mind, body and soul. As well as the spa, there’s a well-equipped gym and open-air swimming pool.