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A massive 1960s building in the Garibaldi zone of Milan with a modern but nondescript interior, the four-star Executive was given a makeover in 2003. The best reason to visit the Executive is for the Bedouin-tented bar, which has a Bali theme. Half indoors, half out, the marquee is furnished with cushion-stacked four-poster beds for cocktail hour. Close to trendy Corso Como and therefore popular with the fashion crowd, the bar is open until late; drinks cost from €10.
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Perfectly located in the fashion district, overlooking cool and posh via della Spiga, Carlton Baglioni is one of the oldest hotels in Milan. Refined and elegant, the traditional bar has a gentlemen’s club feel and the suites are fantastically cosy, and completely over the top with leopard print armchairs, silk brocades and bold striped bed linen. There is a small meeting room, with capacity for 15 people.
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Ten minutes from the centre, but perfectly located for the City Fiera Milano (the trade-fair centre), the Regency is a small-sized hotel located in a beautiful 19th century Revival style palazzo. Reminiscent of a medieval castle, the Regency lacks no comforts at all. Decorated in what could be termed “old lady” style, rooms have full-on floral interiors (on the walls, ceiling, beds and bouquets on the table); those on the top floor also have wooden beams and sloping ceilings. Communal areas ooze a sense of intimacy and cosiness enhanced by log fires in winter. The hotel has an inner court with plants and a fountain.
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A perfectly good hotel, 10 minutes’ walking distance from the centre, beyond the Giardini Pubblici at Porta Venezia. Built on the premises of Diana’s Baths, Italy’s first swimming pool for ladies, the hotel still retains its art deco charm despite a recent refurbishment. A must at Sheraton Diana is Sunday’s buffet brunch and the aperitivo hour at the ever-changing Bar club, featuring in the summer season a live DJ every evening and seductive fountain garden where you can lounge on the funky outdoor furniture. If your need is for peace and quiet, request a room not overlooking the garden. There are four meeting rooms, including the high-tech Black Label Room, which can be hired for presentations, shoots and private cocktails.
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Renovated according to a cosmopolitan, chic style, the Starhotel’s design now lies midway between ethnic and art deco-inspired contemporary. Despite its location in a converted 1960s office block, the look is sophisticated and modern. Rooms are fitted with oversized leather-panelled headboards and exotic wood furniture. The bar and restaurant have black lacquered walls and deep red curtains for a funky, lounge-style vibe.
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