4 Places to Stay and Experience the Colonial Charm

Darjeeling Tea Tree Plantation

Although the British Empire is a now long past, there are places in the world which can take you right back to the Colonial days. These places have magnificent hotels built by the British and therefore are a reminiscent of the old British Raj era.

Here are 4 places in the world to stay and experience the colonial charm – remnants of the British Empire.

1. Singapore

Singapore reflects the true colours of the British Empire as the sovereign city-state was under the British rule for 144 years. Singapore is a must-visit place if you want to experience the true colonial charm.
Although there is a myriad of British colonial hotels in Singapore, The Fullerton Hotel highlights the grandest example of colonial architecture in all over Singapore. Initially, The Fullerton was planned to be the largest building in the city in 1919 and opened several years later in 1929. The most important style highlights of The Fullerton Hotel include classical columns and grand porticos.

2. Darjeeling, India

During the period of British Raj in India, Darjeeling served as a summer retreat for English officers and their families, as well as the State of Bengla Government during the hot sticky summers.  Now, the picturesque town still has one of the finest colonial charms in India – Windamere Hotel.

Windamere Hotel was established in the 19th century as summer boarding house for English officers,  Government workers & tea planters. The boarding house was then converted into a hotel just before World War II. Now, the hotel is maintained at a top notch level to preserve the uniqueness of old-world English charm. It is truly 100% authentic and has never been renovated – only restored.

Colonial hotels in Darjeeling

If you ever visit Darjeeling, then do stay at the Windamere Hotel which is also one of the best honeymoon hotels in Darjeeling.

3. Swellendam, South Africa

Being the 3rd oldest town in South Africa, Swellendam boasts quite an abundance of heritage sites. But above all, Schoone Oordt Country House is worth the visit as its unique English style complemented by filigree-laced Victorian verandah and Georgian facade is pure bliss.
Schoone Oordt Country House was first a school; it was then later turned into a private residence which spanned different owners. Now, Schoone Oordt Country House has evolved into a beautiful and historic hotel which is just not to be missed.

4. Yangon, Myanmar

Yangon is a mixed bag of religious structures, modern high-rises, and British colonial architecture. When in Yangon, you certainly cannot miss out on staying at The Strand. A Sarkies brothers creation, The Strand is a mansion-like hotel and definitely is a colonial extravaganza.

Unlike most other British colonial hotels in Asia, The Strand has remained true to its heritage till date.