Mandarin Oriental, Singapore

The soaring atrium lobby is an epic Guggenheim-meets-tropical-garden centrepiece, with clay-to-cream colour gradients inspired by the traditional roof tiles climbing the walls. Malaysian designers, DesignWilkes, have scattered Peranakan touches everywhere, from colonial black-and-white house references to cascading Vanda Miss Joaquim orchids (Singapore's national flower, naturally). Ten dining venues range from Cherry Garden's Michelin-starred Cantonese to MO Bar's sultry cocktail lair. And then there's the rooftop pool. Wrapped in pretty palms and adorned with private cabanas, it serves up spectacular bay views with your backstroke.

The stunning rooms are earth-toned sanctuaries of olive green and burnt orange, complemented by Peranakan-style carved cabinets and light oak furnishings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame either the theatrics of Marina Bay or the sparkling cityscape, while marble bathrooms stock Diptyque goodies alongside rain showers and enormous bathtubs with a serious view. Clever touches abound – WhatsApp butler service, spectacle-cleaning cloths at turndown, and Hans Tan's signature fan artwork above the bed. Club-level perks include free-flowing minibars (yes, including the wine) and HAUS 65 access.

Those vintage Vespa sidecars have become the stuff of Singapore legend – picture yourself puttering through heritage alleys or Crazy Rich Asians filming spots in a restored 1960s model. Heritage river cruises depart from Boat Quay, while complimentary bicycles unlock mornings of independent exploration or just a quiet pedal. You're also perfectly positioned for Gardens by the Bay wandering, Helix Bridge strolling, and Singapore Flyer spinning. Otherwise, the concierge can conjure up just about everything from Peranakan cooking classes to after-dark garden tours, though honestly, watching Spectra's nightly laser spectacular from your room might be entertainment enough.