Best New Hotels 2008:Royal Camp – Mool Sagar, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Located a short drive from the legendary fort city of Jaisalmer, the Royal Camp at Mool Sagar is an oasis in the red desert of India’s north-west Rajasthan. Originally built in the 18th century as a pleasure garden for the Maharaja of Jodhpur, its 18 luxurious traditional tents are deployed around golden-coloured carved stone Mughal pavilions and gardens alive with trickling fountains and tumbling bougainvillea. These aren’t just any old tents, of course – they come equipped with airconditioning/heating, ensuite bathroom and private verandah for late afternoon chota pegs.

We love Those luxurious Rajasthani tents – the Boy Scouts were never like this.

Tents from about $365, www.jodhpurheritage.com.
LEO SCHOFIELD