Sofitel is a name synonymous in the hotel industry with prestige, luxury and elegance. The Sofitel in Philadelphia is right off of ritzy Rittenhouse, and carries the company’s signature blend of French and American styles.

The Sofitel notoriously houses some of Philadelphia’s most high profile visitors, including politicians and famous musicians (have you heard of the New York Philharmonic? I thought so). It is no surprise that the cream of the crop is staying here because the service is impeccable, having won Travel & Leisure’s Best Hotels of 2010 award.

The basic run-down of amenities is quite more than basic. Sofitel is pet friendly, and by that we mean the front of house staff will learn Fido’s name before they learn yours, and the hotel’s charming brasserie Chez Colette has received accolades over its lifetime for its French cuisine and stylish 1920s atmosphere.