This historic hotel, which occupies nearly a complete city block, was built at the behest of King Ludwig in 1841 because his palace lacked indoor plumbing and he was too embarrassed to entertain guests there. It's now privately owned and operated by the Volkhardt family who have possessed it for four generations. It is said that they are involved in most decisions from the fabric used in rooms to the jazz acts performing in the club, not unlike Al-Fayed in Harrod's. The oldest part of the hotel, a former palace and now a kind of miniature Versailles with modern technology, was incorporated into its structure in the 1970s to provide more space for Olympic travellers. Needless to say each of its 395 rooms has a unique design, some in Laura Ashley styles, and include all of the luxuries one would expect from a five-star hotel, with a few extras like Sony Playstations. Three restaurants, a jazz club and an indoor/outdoor swimming pool are just a few of its perks.