Hotspot: Intercontinental, San Francisco

More contemporary than its sister hotel, the Mark Hopkins, up the road, this InterCon's turquoise, aquarium-like façade epitomizes the hip art vibe that energizes the City by the Bay. Designed to be ecofriendly, it's the first new lodging establishment to open its doors in San Francisco in the past three years.

Ambience: The hotel's neo-Japanese style incorporates dark polished wood walls and marble floors to create a minimalist interior. The owners insisted on allowing as much natural light as possible into the space, so there are abundant skylights and windows.

Rooms: With 550 rooms in 32 stories, the InterContinental is one of the city's largest hotels. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views. Spanning two floors, the 186-square-meter penthouse presidential suite (starting at $4,500) features two private terraces, a banquet table for eight, a piano and a fireplace.

Dining: Cool yet inviting, the Italian restaurant Luce has a loungelike feel, with its gold palette and silk-draped windows. The chef isn't afraid to take chances, creating dishes like celery cappuccino soup and venison served with vanilla crust, parsnip celeriac, blackberry compote, asparagus and spiced chocolate. After dinner, sip the house specialty, grappa, at the adjoining Bar 888.