The Ritz may have glanced interestedly across Canal Street as this resurgent New Orleans giant reopened. The building has stood since 1893, and although called The Fairmont, the locals new it as The Roosevelt. Closed after Katrina, the hotel made its triumphant comeback in 2009.

The hotel works most of its magic on the ground floor. There aren’t too many more startling lobbies in the world, a block’s length of shimmering gold and marble, with busboys darting between the resident artworks.

The Sazerac Bar unwinds in a languorous curve beneath striking frescoes, the perfect spot to have them whip up their signature drink before dining in the neighbouring Sazerac Restaurant.

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Where: CBD
Price: High end
Highlights: The lobby, Sazerac bar

Roosevelt Hotel website