Hong Kong

Intense competition has done nothing to keep rates down among Hong Kong's classic accommodations and hipper recent additions, but it has caused service levels to just keep going up and up. Pillow-top comforts abound even at more economical options like the Fleming and get more outrageous as the rates get higher. At the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, a concierge will arrange for the island's top shops to deliver a range of clothing for private fittings right in your room. Over-the-top indulgence is the standard among spas as well: Massage therapists at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong are reputed to be the best in Asia, while the saunas at the Peninsula overlook the Hong Kong skyline. Because the city's fine-dining scene historically revolved around luxury hotels, on-site restaurants are top-notch, from the impossibly chic Caprice at the Four Seasons to the Island Shangri-La's Café Too, where 30 chefs labor in seven different "cooking theatres" on a range of international cuisine.

If you're looking for a bargain, consider booking a hotel in one of the neighborhoods surrounding the Central District. Hong Kong's relatively compact layout and the prevalence of public transport and reasonably priced taxis make location less of an issue than in other Asian cities like Bangkok. Areas like Wanchai, Causeway Bay, and Western are home to boutique offerings like The Fleming and Hotel Jen, which give you plenty of cache for less cash. One tip: Hong Kong concierges are a friendly bunch. Even if you're not a hotel guest, they'll be happy to recommend dumpling dives or hot nightclubs in exchange for a small tip.