The Leela Palace, New Delhi

In the centre of Delhi’s diplomatic district, close to the Santushi Shopping Arcade where you can pick up chic Indian clothes and souvenirs. The hotel is next to a busy junction but rooms are well soundproofed.

Handsomely styled and generously sized, the rooms at Leela Palace exude decadence with Indian miniatures and antique brocades. Colour schemes vary from deep reds to soft blues, while bathrooms are clad in marble. Thoughtful touches include intuitive lighting and replenished platters of biscuits.

A tantalising array of dining options is on your doorstep, from Italian delicacies at Le Cirque to Indian cuisine at Jamavar; sushi at Megu to cocktails and tapas in the Library Bar. Totally unmissable however is Qube, a glass-encased eatery which serves up plates from all over the world: Shanghai dumplings, Thai curries and Canadian lobster, to name a few. Qube is also where you’ll enjoy a decadent buffet breakfast, laden with South Indian dosas and fresh fruit platters.

Up on the roof you’ll find an inviting outdoor pool, and there’s also a spa with sauna, steam room and treatment rooms.

Tour this pulsating city and dip into museums like the Archaeological Museum, the Indian War Memorial Museum and the National Gallery of Modern Art. Seek out some bargains at the 300-year old market, Chandni Chowk, or stroll through the Lodhi Gardens and the ruins of Qutub Minar.