Stay the night: Mandarin Oriental Boston

(GEORGE APOSTOLIDIS)

The pound may continue to struggle against the dollar, but we're still up for a trip across the pond. And, in Boston, they're looking forward to hosting even more of us this year – a 9 per cent increase is predicted, which may not match last year's 12 per cent rise but is still pretty healthy in a recession.

Boston is also one of the American cities that will be tapping into Obamamania. The President and his wife attended Harvard Law School in Cambridge, a quick hop on the T, the city's version of the Tube. But the focus of your stay will be the historic city centre. Here you'll find the new Mandarin Oriental, an imposing edifice containing the most sumptuous lodgings in town.

The rooms

This hotel may be part of a large Asian group, but the east-meets-west design feels bespoke. Outside, the limestone and marble facade references the city's traditional brownstones, while inside the design evokes Oriental opulence, with rich fabrics, lacquered wood and a palette of soft gold and jade tones. Unsurprisingly, luxury living is on offer in its 136 rooms and 12 suites; the bedrooms are spacious and elegantly furnished, the bathrooms are palatial.

The food and drink

Asana is open from breakfast time, but assumes a more sophisticated atmosphere in the evening, when the menu focuses on American and Asian dishes. The M Bar & Lounge hosts a smart crowd for cocktails.

The extras

You don't even have to leave the building to shop at Frette or have your hair done at Mizu. There's a large spa and gym too. Historic Beacon Hill, the waterfront around Seaport, and the Skywalk in the Prudential Center are city highlights. For more ideas on things to see go to bostonusa.com.

The access

Children welcome. Small pets allowed. Facilities for guests with limited mobility and visual and hearing impairments.

The bill

Double rooms cost from £372 per night with breakfast. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) offers return flights to Boston from £298.

The address

Mandarin Oriental Boston, 776 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02199, USA (001 800 2828 3838; mandarinoriental.com/boston).