InterContinental Marine Drive

Description:

• When it comes to views, few contenders can match those of the InterContinental. Designed with business travelers in mind, yet relatively intimate (only 59 rooms), the hotel spares no expense in ensuring you a good night's sleep -- there's even a "Pillow and Quilt Menu": Will it be a set of "air" pillows tonight or a mix of Korean and bamboo pillows? Satin or silk quilts? Beside the bed is your choice of oils for clarity of thought, stress relief, or peaceful sleep; in the bathroom are heavenly toiletries from Bvlgari. At a whopping 42 sq. m (450 sq. ft.), the rooms here must be the largest in the city. (While most rooms offer some view of the sea, best are the "deluxe seafront.") All rooms come with 42-inch plasma TV and DVD player. Bathrooms are large, separated from the main room only by sliding doors (in the suite) or windows, creating a feeling of spaciousness. Other personal touches include a bath menu (for prepared baths), with choices like "Skin Nourishing Bath," complete with rose petals. Although the in-house dining hasn't been exceptional, the lovely rooftop Dome bar is perfect for a romantic evening drink, and a new Italian restaurant, Corleogne, promises home-style Italian cooking. Also pleasant is the lobby lounge with its leather sofas, where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks; watch a humongous plasma TV; or peruse the interesting book collection.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010