The Scarlet Hotel is indeed scarlet – and gold and black; dramatic furniture, chandeliers and polished surfaces add to the sexy, boudoir-glam vibe. Occupying a series of shophouses at the top of Erskine Road, it’s much favoured by media and design types. The public areas (especially the bar, lobby and lovely rooftop bar Breeze) are the best; rooms are small and some are windowless, though beds are comfortable. Opt for a suite, if you can. There’s a tiny outdoor Jacuzzi and mini gym.