Safety is always a priority when travelling, but if you are a dignitary or a tycoon you might need top-level security. These five properties come with bulletproof presidential suites that have been home to many famous names in the past (though part of the security is also not disclosing who has stayed – still, we asked). Along with bulletproof glass, a stay at these quarters comes with 24-hour butler service and free wifi internet access.
Fullerton Hotel, Singapore
The suite at this iconic property, which measures 202 sqm, comes with its own private elevator for exclusive access. The room consists of a living room and dining room, which both extend out to a bulletproof glass-covered verandah, as well as a private study, master bedroom and bathroom.
Star dust: The hotel did not want to disclose this information
Additional plus point: The room is furnished with a baby grand piano
The Kempinski Hotel Adlon, Berlin
The Adlon Royal suite prizes itself as the safest presidential suite in Berlin with incredibly sophisticated security systems in addition to views of Potsdamer Platz. The suite, which measures 420 sqm in total, is located within a Security Wing, which can be accessed by two private lifts directly from the underground car park facility. Decorated with a blend of Asian and European décor, the suite also consists of a living room with a fireplace, an office and conference room, a master bedroom, a fitness area, a bathroom with a Finnish sauna and Jacuzzi facility. It is connected to two other suites and an additional room, with a separate lounge, for the rest of the guest's entourage or crew.
Star dust: Though the hotel cannot disclose names, according to a spokesperson the hotel is the “unofficial guesthouse of the state” meaning it has housed several country leaders from around the world
Additional plus point: The entire set of rooms has one independent, dedicated telecommunications system for greater security.
The Leela Palace, New Delhi
The presidential suite at this property, named the Maharaja suite, is fit for Indian royalty with its décor and the offerings. The suite, measuring 411 sqm, offers two living rooms, a dining room, a master bedroom, bathroom with a Jacuzzi and a walk-in wardrobe. Additionally, the room offers a private gym equipped with a treadmill, cycle, a cross trainer and weights as well as a study with a small collection of leather-bound classics. This suite also has a direct private elevator and can be connected to an additional room to accommodate more guests.
Star dust: Hollywood actor Tom Cruise
Additional plus point: The room has a gold leaf ceiling and pure silver objet d'art to reflect rich Indian heritage and accentuate the room's luxurious feel
The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow
The presidential suite, located on the top floor of this hotel and measuring 237 sqm, is supposedly the largest suite in the city with uninterrupted views of the Kremlin, Red Square and St Basil’s Cathedral. The suite consists of one living room with a grand piano, dining room, an office and boardroom, a master bedroom and a total of two fireplaces. This suite also has its own telecommunications system.
Star dust: The hotel did not want to disclose this information
Additional plus point: For extra security, the suite has an autonomous energy supply system as well
The Shangri-La, Jakarta
This property has two Presidential suites, located on levels 29 and 30 of the hotel, each measuring 370 sqm. The suites consist of a foyer, living room, dining room, pantry, working area, master bedroom, walk-in closet, bathroom with a Jacuzzi and sauna, make-up room and a separate additional toilet. Furthermore, both suites can connect to the neighbouring deluxe rooms, which is usually where a VIP's staff will stay.
Star dust: US President Barack Obama
Additional plus point: Both suites have private balconies overlooking the hotel swimming pool, although walking out there might perhaps defeat the purpose of being a bulletproof haven.
Alisha Haridasani and Tiffany Sandrasagern