Long Bar, Raffles Singapore

The Long Bar at Raffles Singapore is where the iconic Singapore Sling was first shaken up back in 1915. This two-storey bar's design harks back to the 1920s, with its earthy decor and vintage plantation vibes. A quirky tradition here invites you to toss your peanut shells on the floor — it's the only place in Singapore where littering is not just allowed but encouraged. Following a grand renovation in 2020, the Long Bar continues to be a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists.

Bemelmans Bar, The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, New York City

Found within The Carlyle, Bemelmans Bar is like stepping into a New York time capsule with a twist. Adorned with whimsical murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, the bar mixes an old-school atmosphere with contemporary charm. Leather banquettes and a gold-leaf ceiling set the scene, while the chance of catching an impromptu performance by a star like Lady Gaga adds a dash of excitement. This bar is a favourite haunt for celebrities and anyone who appreciates a classic New York experience.

The Connaught Bar, Connaught Hotel, London

The Connaught Bar at The Connaught in London is a perennial favourite on the world's best bars list, thanks to its sophisticated 1920s-inspired decor and innovative cocktail menu. The Martini Trolley, where drinks are made tableside, is a beloved tradition, but the bar also impresses with its modern concoctions featuring ingredients like miso caramel and Amalfi lemon leaves. Helmed by master mixologist Ago Perrone, you know you’re in good hands here.

The Main Bar, Royal Mansour Marrakech

At the Royal Mansour in Marrakech, the Main Bar is nothing short of regal. With its hand-sculpted silver ceiling and rose gold leaf walls, the bar is a sight to behold, with the intricate designs and vintage carved chairs transporting guests to a lavish past. Sip on a Royal Mansour (a champagne cocktail with fresh raspberries and Sahara honey) while listening to exclusive musical tracks that add to the bar’s unique charm.

Bar Hemingway, The Ritz Paris

Bar Hemingway at the Ritz Paris is steeped in history, having been a favourite of literary legends like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. This intimate bar houses Hemingway memorabilia, from photos to his old typewriter. It’s also where the Serendipity cocktail was born. It’s the birthplace of the Serendipity cocktail, but if you want to drink like Hemingway, order a dry martini and soak in the old-world charm.

DUKES Bar, DUKES London

DUKES Bar at DUKES London is renowned for its martinis, famously preferred by James Bond creator Ian Fleming (and said to be where he conceived the classic line ‘shaken, not stirred’). Tucked away in a discreet alley in St. James, this bar gives a taste of old-school London with its plush, overstuffed armchairs and classic decor. The martini service is an experience in itself, with drinks prepared tableside on a trolley, garnished with a fresh twist of Amalfi lemon. It's a spot where the drinks are as timeless as the setting.

King Cole Bar, The St. Regis New York

The King Cole Bar at The St. Regis New York is the birthplace of the Bloody Mary (which was once renamed the Red Snapper, as not to offend the elegant hotel’s clientele). This legendary bar has hosted the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Salvador Dalí. The intimate space, adorned with a Maxfield Parrish mural, offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying classic cocktails. For the ultimate experience, reserve Table 55, which comes with a bespoke menu and top-tier drinks.

American Bar, The Savoy, London

The American Bar at The Savoy in London is the oldest surviving cocktail bar in Britain and has been a cornerstone of the cocktail world since 1893. Known for its menu of American-style drinks, this bar was also patroned by Marilyn Monroe, as well as Mick Jagger and Winston Churchill. The white-jacketed bartenders mix both vintage and contemporary cocktails, making every visit a step back in time with a modern twist.

The Bamboo Bar, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

The Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok is as legendary for its jazz as it is its cocktails. This sultry spot, featuring leopard and zebra print decor and rattan fans, has been a favourite since 1953. The cocktail menu honours the bar's history and Thailand's diverse regions, using local fruits and herbs to craft unique drinks. The Bamboo Bar remains a vibrant hub for both jazz aficionados and cocktail lovers.