- For many people, travel is about transformation and reinvention.
- Why not also hotels, especially in an era committed to reuse and recycling? As our surroundings evolve, it's important to know where we've been.
- For every gleaming new tower that pierces tomorrow's skyline, there's a lesson to be learned from yesterday's demolition.
- We applaud the creativity that went into converting fortresses, prisons, and firehouses into attention-worthy inns.
- Visit BusinessInsider.com for more stories.
Alila Fort Bishangarh
Jaipur, India
It took seven years to turn a 230-year-old hilltop fortress into a retreat in rural Rajasthan on the road between Delhi and Jaipur. Old meets new in the ancient turrets and walls that still have their openings for firearms, and in the modern offerings in 59 suites and several on-site restaurants.
If you get invited down to the former dungeon, say yes. It's now the spa.
alilahotels.com
Off NH-8 at Manoharpur
+91 723 005 8058
The Liberty Hotel
"Liberty" is an ironic name for the luxury Beacon Hill hotel that spent its first 140 years as Beantown's prison. But the revamp is striking, as seen in the circular windows and balconies in the four-story atrium lobby, as well as dynamic, making the hotel a destination for eating and drinking (including at – har, har – Clink), shopping, and, oh yes, sleeping.
libertyhotel.com
215 Charles Street
+1 617 224 4000
1898 The Post
Housed on the top two floors of a former post office with a striking neo-Gothic facade, the small boutique hotel is decorated with dark colors, antique furniture, and large windows overlooking the city.
Days start with a delicious homemade breakfast and cup of tea in The Kitchen, a relaxed open-format restaurant with cozy upholstered seating in neutral tones.
zannierhotels.com
Graslei 16
+32 9 277 09 60
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