Fleewinter

A green oasis in the middle of this hectic city, the Belmond Governor's Residence harks back to bygone colonial days. This romantic 1920s mansion used to belong to the British ruler of Myanmar's southern states. Set in the Embassy Quarter of Yangon, the hotel sits in a garden by pretty lotus pools.

As you walk into this beautiful and opulent setting, staff will place a fresh flower lei over your head before showing you to your room.

The rooms are spacious and filled with teak and silks, offering luxurious comfort while reflecting the tastes and styles of the period - we loved the large stone bath tubs in all rooms. The Deluxe rooms offer courtyard views while the Deluxe Garden rooms overlook the greenery. The Junior Suite Rooms have a nice living space and the Governor's Rooms are - in our opinion - the best in the hotel, especially Room 111 which has inviting pool views.

Governor's rooms include intricately carved wooden features and a canopy bed, as well as roomy bathrooms, which include a walk-in shower,behind a silk-panelled door. The larger Suites include a generously sized living area and offer an ideal sanctuary to refresh and unwind.

Dinner can be enjoyed outdoors by lantern-light allowing guests to enjoy the balmy evening air. The Mandalay Restaurant serves a mix of delicious and delicately spiced local dishes and European cuisine as guests sit surrounded by lotus flowers. Spice-lovers can enjoy the Burmese Curry Table, where curries are served buffet-style over charcoal burners alongside green tea and cool beers. The lounge itself boasts views of the pool and gardens.

End a day of sight-seeing by relaxing with a cocktail in the open-air Mindon Lounge or sample fine wines and signature coffees in the Kipling Bar.

The fan-shaped swimming pool is surrounded by sun loungers and is perfectly placed to enjoy some sunshine. The Governor's Oasis spa offers massages, indulgent facial therapies, manicures and pedicures.

The tour and travel desk can assist guests with booking excursions to local historical sites, spectacular pagodas and bustling markets. Learn how to make a Myanmar salad in a traditional cooking class, play golf on a local course or hire a bicycle and head out and explore.

Belmond Governor's Residence is ten minutes from the city centre and 30 minutes from Yangon airport.