In the Spotlight: Alma Hotel & Lounge, Tel Aviv

The Alma is one of Tel Aviv's best and most intimate boutique hotels, with just 15 rooms housed in a former apartment building dating to the 1920s. The style throughout is bohemian-chic, featuring rich hues and bold patterns, and the aging historic core of the building -- essentially a once-elegant apartment vestibule with original tiling and wrought iron stair railings -- has been deliberately preserved. Every room has a different name and style inspired by the building's past. Rooms come with an abundance of thoughtful extras, including welcome treats, espresso machines, and loaner iPads (upon request). Impressive bathrooms have jetted showers or soaking tubs and high-end Bulgari toiletries. The hotel is a local dining and drinking hot spot, but there are few other features aside from the on-site lounge.