A city landmark that has been lovingly updated to appeal to today’s finicky big-spending traveler, known as one of the best places to stay in New York, the Carlyle has catered to celebrities and giants of industry since its construction in 1930. It is recognised as a bastion of old-school style (its rooms were originally decorated by Dorothy Draper), though a modernizing touch-up by Mark Hampton and luxury suites from star designers Thierry Despont and Alexandra Champlimaud suggests that this grande dame doesn’t shrink at the suggestion of change. (Despont is responsible for the chic, sleek feel of the lobby.) Rooms feature Yves Delorme comforters, 100% combed Egyptian Mako cotton linens, whirlpool tubs, marvelous antiques, Kiehls’s toiletries, slipper and monogrammed terry robes, iPod gear, and dreamy minibars stocked with Taittinger Champagne, Dean & Deluca chocolates, and candy from Dylan’s Candy Bar. (Many of the suites feature baby grand pianos.) Of course, its Café Carlyle is a cabaret mainstay, and Bemelmans Bar (see Drink) provides a cool, clubby retreat.