Located a few blocks south of the National Mall, the Mandarin Oriental Washington D.C. feels like a separate oasis in this busy city. It’s a fitting location for a hotel that draws on Asian décor and themes like zen and tranquility in its design.  Those staying in any of the Tai Pan Club Rooms on the top two floors can enjoy access to the Tai Pan lounge, offering comfortable seats, snacks and a cocktail menu as well as a range of other amenities for visitors looking to socialize with other guests or to relax. Sitting on the balcony, with a view of the Washington Monument and ginger mint julep in hand, was the perfect way to take in the city before venturing out for the evening. The lounge offers a happy hour with free coctkails and snacks each evening, as well as a complimentary European breakfast each morning.

The Empress Lounge, just a few steps down from hotel’s main lobbby, is a relaxing, expansive venue for drinks and appetizers, with a live jazz band performing the night I was there (there’s live music on weekends). It’s an ideal place to meet with friends after a day in the city. Guests can look out the lounge’s floor-to-ceiling windows onto the Asian gardens in the back, a popular area to stroll or hold functions—an Indian wedding, complete with the groom’s arrival on horseback, was taking place while I was there.The lounge also offers afternoon tea between 2:30-4:30 each day. For those looking for a more formal dining experience, the Mandarin Oriental is home to CityZen, one of DC’s most highly lauded restaurants, featuring modern American cuisine and top-notch cocktails. The hotel also includes Sou’Wester, with a more southwestern menu of regional comfort food.

My room was spacious and comfortable, with a King Size bed, free wireless Internet and replica artwork from the city’s Smithsonian Freer Gallery. The spacious bathroom included a shower and seprate standalone tub. But what was most notable about the room was its view. Thanks to the Mandarin Oriental’s location, it’s Water View rooms offer a panorama of the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial that was astonishing at night. I never thought of Washington DC as w beautiful city but the view from the Mandarin has convinced me otherwise. —Alex Palmer

Mandarin Oriental Washington DC 1330 Maryland Ave SW Washington DC, 20024 202.316.0656