Incredible Hotels with Altitude

1 – The Banyan Tree, Bangkok

The Banyan Tree boasts the best view of Thailand’s bustling capital from the aptly named Vertigo Grill & Moon Bar, just don’t go up there if you get a little dizzy when it comes to heights!

On the rooftop of the 61st floor, at 196 meters high, you can enjoy a simple drink in the al fresco bar or eat some grilled seafood in the restaurant and look over the edge at the twinkling lights of Bangkok below.

From the rooftop in the clouds you can see the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and the Chao Phraya River in the distance. It’s a must-see on every Bangkok itinerary, but make sure you don’t try and go when it’s raining though, as it is sure to be closed since it has no roof!

2 – Swissotel the Stamford, Singapore

At 73 storeys, the Swissotel is one of South East Asia’s loftiest hotels. Located in the Raffles City Complex, it is strategically situated in the heart of Singapore’s business, historical, cultural and shopping districts and now overlooks the new Formula 1 race course at turn 9.

For a high thrill, don some smart casual clothes and head to the cocktail bar on the 72nd floor, which offers birds-eye views of the harbour below. It has become a must see for any tourist visiting Asia and also a popular proposal venue.

The hotel has a grand total of 16 restaurants with exceptional cuisine catering for every appetite, from French and Swiss to Chinese and Japanese. If you’re up for it you can also take part in the Vertical Marathon. Those who put themselves to the challenge have to climb to the pinnacle up 1,336 steps up 73 storeys.

The tradition of the vertical marathon at Swissotel began in 1987 and a Guinness World Record was first set by Mr Balvinder Singh in 1989 in 6min 55secs. In 2008, world-class stair racer, Thomas Dold, broke the 20-year-old Swissôtel Vertical Marathon record, with his winning time of 6min 52secs.

3 – Burj Al Arab, Dubai

Dubai is home to some of the world’s most outrageously luxurious hotels and The Burj Al Arab is certainly one of the most opulent and iconic. Standing at 321 meters high, The Burj Al Arab is designed to resemble the billowing sail of an Arabian dhow and dominates the Dubai Skyline.

At night the building is illuminated by choreographed lighting to resemble water and fire. This hotel has attracted much international attention and is one of the most photographed contemporary structures in the world.

The hotel itself is set on its own private island off the shores of Jumeirah beach and the city of Dubai. The Al Mahara seafood restaurant is reached through an aquarium through a simulated submarine and the Al Falak Ballroom is designed to look like an 18th century Viennese Opera House.

Visitors can get an impressive view of the Arabian gulf through the hotel’s panoramic windows. If you win the lottery or you’re an Arabic prince you might be able to afford the 780 sq meter ‘Royal Suite’ with a rotating canopy bed, a private cinema and even your own private elevator. One can dream…