A clear sign that Afghanistan's capital is on the road to recovery: the $37 million, 177-room Kabul Serena Hotel. Set in the heart of the city, the Serena has marble floors, wooden screens, silk curtains— and two restaurants, a health spa, and embassy-tight security. It's a gleaming oasis in a city just emerging from a dark past. Kabul Serena Hotel, 93-79/9965-4000; www.serenahotels.com; doubles from $275.
T+L Reports: Kabul Luxe
