Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu

Built in 1967, the Hyatt looks decidedly dated from the outside, but inside it's a marble oasis of soaring ceilings, dark-wood chic and an inviting open-plan restaurant and lounge in the lobby. Low-lit rooms are huge, stylish affairs with all the mod cons: flat-screen TV, rain shower, fine linen. Be sure to ask for discounts outside of peak season.