APRIL 1, 2008. Swanky, whimsy or shamelessly classic, upscale hotel bars are topping the list of the world’s hottest hotspots. To help your readers discover top-notch atmosphere, perfect cocktails and elite nightlife, boo.com has uncovered some of the world’s coolest hotel bars:

Ritz Carlton, Battery Park, New York, NY
http://www.boo.com/newyork/hotels/ritz-carlton_ny_battery_park
Enjoy some of New York City’s most popular sights without even leaving the comfort of the Ritz Carton’s trendy Rise Bar, which boasts a phenomenal view of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. Cozy up in an oversized armchair with a Libertini in one hand (one of their many fabulous specialty drinks) and a pair of binoculars in the other. You will witness a stunning scene as daylight turns to dusk and bright lights dance gracefully across the tranquil waters. If your schedule allows, spend a night in one of the many luxurious suites the Ritz Carlton has offer.

Marriot Gaslamp, San Diego, CA
http://www.boo.com/sandiego/hotels/marriott_gas_lamp-san_diegoqtr
Altitude Sky Bar is located in the fresh, open air atop the Marriot Gas-Lamp hotel. It offers a breathtaking 360 degree view of San Diego, including a panorama of the ocean and a phenomenal birds-eye view of PETCO baseball Park; perfect for watching the San Diego Padres play ball. You can more comfortably and cheaply grab a trendy cocktail from the Altitude Bar, sink into one of their elegant, tufted banquettes and let the game begin. The décor of this chic bar coordinates with the vibrant cocktails and crowd; the walls reflect glow stick-like colors infusing the bar with a sultry feel. Late-nighters usually extend their after dark revelry by checking into a room at the Marriot Gas-Lamp Hotel, which is equally as inviting as the Altitude Sky Bar. Indubitably, Marriot Gas-Lamp Hotel hosts one of the foxiest crowds to be found.

Rockwell Bar at the Trafalgar Hotel, London, England
http://www.boo.com/london/hotels/the_trafalgar_london
Set in Covent Garden in the heart of London, the award-winning Rockwell bar offers people a haven of modern chic. The two tiered bar and restaurant features black leather armchairs, white lacquer tables and walnut polished floors. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, the rooftop bar, London’s best kept secret, might just be the ticket. You can sip on champagne or one of the endless delicious cocktails and take in the spectacular views encompassing Nelson’s Column; but, perhaps you are just looking for a low-key night of solace? A night at the Trafalgar Hotel is the best remedy for a weary mind. It is a minimalist’s paradise; large, open rooms have been decorated with the greatest discretion. The hotel’s dominant black and white colour scheme harmonizes beautifully and seems to represent the yin and yang.

Times Bar, Savoy Hotel, Berlin, Germany
http://www.boo.com/berlin/hotels/savoy_berlin
The Times Bar in Berlin’s homey Savoy Hotel is known for its down-to-earth intellectual and aspiring crowd. The Times Bar resembles an old home-style library with its wood panelled walls, faint smell of cigar smoke and cushy leather armchairs. An extensive collection of international magazines contribute to an extremely relaxing and stimulating bar experience, making it the perfect place to start a debate or catch up on your world politics - which is all the more bearable with a cocktail in hand.

Royal Plaza on Scotts, Singapore, SE Asia
http://www.boo.com/singapore/singapore/hotels/royal_plaza_on_scotts
The Royal Plaza on Scotts Hotel boasts one of the most sophisticated bars in the world, the Heat Lounge. Upon entering this swanky lounge a bolt of electric blue light illuminates the room. Polished bar staff rush to your side to wisk away your jacket and cater to your every need. As the eclectic music pulsates through your veins, you will find it impossible to resist a dance. Let your night of bopping and boozing be a smooth one, no taxi transfers required! Unwind from a night of thumping music and electric lights in a calming room that starkly contrasts the Heat Lounge. The Royal Plaza on Scotts Hotel offers luxurious rooms with simple but striking adornment: painted oriental flowers that embellish the wall, beige carpets, and crisp white comforters. The Royal Plaza on Scotts Hotel offers customers the classiest hotel rooms in the heart of Singapore and the hottest nightlife in town.