Hyatt Regency Dushanbe

The Hyatt Regency enjoys a setting unique among Dushanbe's hotels: the shore of Komsomol Lake at the capital's green western edge, where lawns run down to the water and the Hissar mountains double themselves in the surface on still mornings. The long low building is oriented to the view, and the effect is more lakeside resort than city block—a genuine advantage in a capital whose pleasures are largely outdoors.

A fixture since 2009, the hotel wears its age well after refurbishment. Rooms are comfortable and classically contemporary, the best with balconies or full windows over the lake; the lobby lounge's wall of glass frames the water and peaks. Summer is the property's season, when the outdoor pool and lakeside terraces come alive and the city's diplomatic and expatriate community treats the lawns as its club.

Dining spans international menus, kebab-led local grilling on the terrace and a well-stocked bar, while an indoor pool, sauna and gym carry the colder months. Rudaki Avenue's sights are ten minutes by car, and the airport is close. The Hyatt's blend of resort space and city access makes it especially good for families and for decompression after Pamir or Fann expeditions—few capitals this remote offer a lakeside sundowner this pleasant.