What is the exact definition of a dame hotel? Given how old the dames are – many over 100 years old – are these places still attractive in today’s ever-changing, fast-paced world?
A dame, anywhere in the world, is a hotel whose walls have stories to tell and secrets to keep. They are historic, imbued with dignity and importance; reassuring, privileged bastions of the good life, representing eternity, free from outside interference. That kind of value might mean some grand dames get a little dull and dull over the years, but the best of them also manage to be charming and exciting, with celebrity faces never far away.
The vast majority of dame hotels date from the late 1800s to the 1920s. After quickly establishing themselves as the grandest, most elegant and luxurious hotels in town, they often ride out the decades with a smooth sail. Not anymore: In this 21st century, often with wealthy new owners at the helm, many businesses have undergone extensive top-to-toe renovations, including additions that appeal to today’s guests: spas, rooftop pools, trendy bars, chef-led restaurants And so on – in order to remain relevant and thus survive the decades to come. Renovating a grand dame is no easy task, and in doing so, some great establishments have lost their dignity and original appeal and become just another glitzy address, constantly chasing the latest fads.
Ever since I started traveling as a teenager, I’ve made a point of at least visiting the Grande Dame as much as I would visiting museums or attractions in the city I’m exploring. A world-class hotel feels different: comfortable and protected; exciting and alive with possibility. Once I got to New York, I didn’t know anyone, and at one point I made a point of going to the plaza just to see what would happen; nothing happened, but it was still exciting to be there.
Here are 30 dame hotels that successfully balance past glories with modern glamour.
Asia and Oceania
Singapore Raffles
The granddaddy of the colonial dame hotels, the Raffles Hotel was opened in 1887 by the Sarkies brothers as a 10-bedroom hotel and quickly became a sanctuary for the rich, famous and cultured. In 2017 it closed for a two year refurbishment, the ambience was nicely intact, but freshness was added throughout and the bedrooms are brilliantly appointed. Stunning chandeliers catch the eye in the tiered white lobby, while the club-style Writers’ Bar recalls famous writers who once stayed. The historic Long Bar is home to the Singapore Sling, which was first mixed here in 1915.
stay: Doubles from £592 (00 65 6337 1886; raffles.com/singapore)
