Mandarin Oriental

Many Washingtonians raised an eyebrow when the Mandarin chose a spot surrounded by government office buildings and a seafood market for its 400-room hotel. But managers at the international chain saw potential in the site—which, in fairness, is actually only a few blocks from the Mall and two Metro stations—and went about proving that location isn’t everything. The hotel is sumptuous in every detail, from the gorgeous spa, indoor pool and top-notch restaurant to the bed linens and bathroom toiletries. Some rooms have views of monuments and the Tidal Basin.