On the Nile, a short walk from the embassy district and the Egyptian Museum. Cairo's newest luxury hotel is too discreet to name names but is already popular with Arab royalty and Western celebrities. 288 rooms and 77 suites, among the largest in Cairo, all stuffed with technology. About half have sweeping Nile views. It is hard to choose between the six restaurants, but Aqua (seafood) and Spice are both world-class. This Four Seasons and its twin across the river have set new standards of service in Egypt.

Rates: From USD 310.00pn + tax