Gran Meliá Caracas

One of Caracas’ grand dames, the 436-room Gran Meliá is its largest luxury hotel. It’s set back from Sabana Grande’s tough streets by a gala driveway, leading to an urban oasis featuring a startling sunset-toned lobby, wildly popular pool with cascading fountain, and a restaurant that makes its Sunday brunch look like a work of art. It’s cheaper than Altamira and Las Mercedes’ luxury options, but you won’t come out ahead due to the compulsory need to use taxis for any movement whatsoever.