Miami Beach, Florida The up-to-the-minute 86-room art deco Clinton Hotel South Beach has a sexy Parisian theme, thanks to its Parisian designer Eric Raffy. Favourite loft suites are 251–254, with glass walls separating the bathrooms and bedrooms, and pool-view balconies with privacy curtains and double hot tubs. Bedroom wall mirrors and the backs of the chair covers are both laced up, corset-like, with real cords. GM is Rafael Barrera.

Kuala Lumpur The five-month-old Hilton Kuala Lumpur, connected to the airport rail express terminal, soars 35 floors above the burgeoning Sentral area. Take an east-facing room, looking down across the lush Lake Gardens, with access to the aerie-like 33rd-floor club lounge. Relax in the sensual 120-metre free-form pool, with its own islands and giant rock sculptures. GM is Kees Hartzuiker.

Rajasthan, India Devi Garh, a golden hilltop fort dating back to the 1760s, has 23 bedrooms and six luxury tents, complete with electricity and terraces. In fact, all of the interiors are from the 21st-century minimalist lifestyle school, with air conditioning, mini-bars and marbled bathrooms. The Devi Garh Suite, with its black marble pool, is the most romantic choice. Outdoor activities include horse or camel riding and morning yoga. GM is Rajnish Sabharwal.

Co Mayo, Ireland Ashford Castle, a short walk from the ruins of Cong Abbey, dates back to 1228. Set among 26,000 acres, the vast estate offers golf, lake boating, woodland walks, croquet and falconry. Inside, the 84-bedroom castle has such unique features as a giant inglenook working fireplace, a perfect spot to pop the question. A favourite suite is 410 for its views across Lough Corrib and the Connemara mountains. Do not miss the amazing buffet breakfast, with whole hams carved to order. GM is Niall Rochford.

Cape Town Ten minutes from town, the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is named after the mountain range that forms its backdrop. Facing the hotel is the Atlantic, so you can choose between a mountain and ocean view. There is a movie theatre, and the 12-room Sanctuary Spa features its own line of local African products (Moya) and Forever Fabulous cosmetic surgery opportunities. To escape, private pinot noir tastings are offered an hour away at Bouchard Finlayson vineyards. GM is Cleve Bennett.

Contact the editor-in-chief of Gostelow Reports, WOW: The Intimate Newsletter for Elite Travelers and www.WOWtraveler.net at MGostelow@enroutemag.net.