Algodon Mansion, Buenos Aires

Opened late last year and already on the 2011 Condé Nast Traveller Hot List, Buenos Aires' most luxurious hotel is tucked away on a leafy street in elegant Recoleta.

Set in a meticulously restored belle époque mansion, Algodon artfully combines old-world charm, cutting-edge technology and fabulous service.

The classic façade and grand proportions remain, but its 10 suites are contemporary and sleek, with separate living areas and vast marble-and-limestone bathrooms that have waterfall showers and tubs made for sharing, plus a personal butler to attend to your every whim.

Head to the rooftop for the perfect post-sightseeing combination: pool, cocktails at the Sky Bar and organic therapies at Le Spa.

Dine on Argentine-French fusion dishes at the intimate Chez Nous, with its gold-leaf ceiling and oxblood-red walls, then relax in a leather club chair in the Cognac Bar.

Wow factor: The enormous Royale Suites with a baby grand piano, steam showers, private chef and bar.

Go: Audley (audleytravel.com) offers five nights B&B from £1,870 per person. Includes flights and transfers.