Mandarin Oriental, Washington, D.C

Frommer's Review

The location of this fabulously posh hotel is in a government-building neighborhood, a few blocks from the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, a short cab ride to the Capitol. By day, the location is ultra-convenient; at night, not at all. These streets are dark, not meant for strolling; and there's nothing to do.

Never mind. Once you're ensconced inside the Mandarin, you may have no inclination to leave. Rather than roam the neighborhood, you may enjoy rambling around the hotel's terraces of landscaped gardens, whose views of the Tidal Basin, marina, and Jefferson Memorial, are unmatched by any other D.C. hotel. In fact, a footbridge on the property actually crosses the water to deposit you on the lip of the Tidal Basin, within steps of the Jefferson -- and in spring, in the midst of the famous blossoming cherry trees. Many consider the hotel's renowned CityZen restaurant the best in the city.

Hotel decor richly combines Asian and American traditions, with each guest room laid out in accordance with the principles of Feng shui. Guest rooms situated in the corner on each floor overlook both the city and the water, but all rooms are generously sized, measuring upward of 400 square feet. Triple-paned windows and a recycling program for guests are two aspects of the Mandarin's eco-friendly efforts.

Facilities:
2 restaurants, 2 bars; babysitting; children's programs; concierge; concierge-level rooms; world class health club & full-service spa, with heated indoor pool, sauna & Jacuzzi; room service; complimentary Wi-Fi in public spaces

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.