The warmth of a stone fireplace greets guests in the lobby. Designer Guy Prache has added antiques, lamps and carpets from his jaunts to Nepal.

Get the night (or afternoon) started without leaving the onsite bar.

Brand new place on a quiet street in Parabiago, the City of the Shoes. Cool moveable panels absorb or deflect the sun’s heat to increase energy efficiency.

Cafe Bellagio treats you to killer lake views and traditional French fare starring locally sourced ingredients. You in?

Whatever time you stumble in, the 24-hour front desk serves up service with a smile.

Terminal 1 to the left, Terminal 2 to the right. Closer to your flight, and you’d be on the tarmac.

Oooh, baby – this is quite the setting. Give the surrounding panorama a complimentary low whistle.

Well-place Lugano home base close to shops, dining – all the good stuff.

Modest rooms have modern touches, like sleek decor and plenty of plugins.

Free WiFi satisfies both biz travelers and social media addicts.

Sweet location not far from Gran Paradiso Nat’l Park, with panoramic views of the Alps from the breakfast terrace.

Funky furniture in the lobby gives the place a cool, quirky vibe.