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Amantaka Luang Prabang, Laos This luxury resort – one of the newest in the prestigious Amanresorts portfolio – is housed in graceful French colonial buildings, once the old provincial hospital of the former capital of Laos, Luang Probang. Nine of the resort's 15 buildings are protected under UNESCO's World Heritage regulations; indeed the whole town was declared a World Heritage site in 1995 to protect its many temples, former Royal Palace and classic French-Lao architectural masterpieces. Meticulous restoration was carried out and additional buildings were constructed sympathetic to UNESCO stipulations. The result is 24 airy suites spread around a spacious inner courtyard and tastefully furnished in French Colonial style. All offer expansive outdoor areas shaded by mango trees and 16 have private pools. Breezy colonial verandahs add charm and tropical comfort throughout the resort, at the heart of which lies Amanresorts' signature 'peace' (main) pool, a fitness centre and yoga studio, and the Dining Room restaurant which serves Lao and French-influenced cuisine. Other restaurant options, as well as bakeries, boutiques and Luang Probang's night market, are a stroll away. www.amanresorts.com Threadneedles London UK This five-star boutique hotel in the midst of London's financial district is housed in a former Midlands Bank which dates from 1856. A discreet entrance belies its gracious interiors and elegant accommodations, which were converted for their new purpose in 2002. A sensitive transformation meant that many original features of the landmark building were retained such as the main circular hall which is still lit by its original, exquisite stained glass. Six impressive columns support a hand-painted central dome, which adds warmth to the lobby as well as grandeur. The original 120 panels of glass painted in 1856 still grace the dome having, surprisingly, survived both world wars. Sixty original mahogany cashier counters have been restored and put to new use throughout the hotel; elegant carved cornices in the former bank manager's office also add great original design detail. Accommodation is in 69 guestrooms, including six suites, and the hotel boasts an upmarket restaurant called, appropriately, Bonds. www.preferredboutique.com/threadneedles 68 travel&living www.travelandliving.com.au