India is not an easy place to travel in. It's hot, noisy, the traffic is unbelievable, and the constant stream of people wanting to guide you, trick you, sell something, or beg money is unrelenting. But on the other hand, India has some of the most beautiful hotels I've ever had the pleasure to stay at. It's a good thing too, because when travelling in India you need an oasis where you can recharge, rest, and relax in order to get ready to go out and once again face the challenges of India's cities.
Our first few nights in Mumbai, we stayed at the Taj Mahal Palace. The hotel is a tourist destination in and of itself. Situated right beside the Gateway of India, the hotel is an architectural treasure dating back to 1903.
The hotel is opulent, yet elegant, managing to avoid the excesses of hotels in the middle east such as the Emirates Palace. And should you stay here, you'll be very grateful for the marble clad walls. Coming back into my room from walking the dusty, grimy, sweltering streets of Mumbai, I was tempted to lay down on the pristine white coolness of the marble floors in my room. Instead, I relished the relief it offered to my bare feet and then went to take a shower in the marble bathroom.
And then went downstairs to relax by the pool
The Taj hotel group in general have some of the most stunning properties in India and this one is no exception. Even if you aren't staying in the hotel, the lobby is a great place to take a break and do some excellent people watching.
We stayed in the Heritage wing of the hotel which has excellent views of the Gateway of India and has some absolutely gorgeous rooms.
The very inviting bed -
And the seaside window with a great view of the Gate of India where you can have a drink or eat some fruit as you relax in peace watching the hordes of people go by.
Alas, my one criticism of the hotel is that even these walls couldn't totally keep out the noise of Mumbai. Early in the morning you'll begin to hear the honking and general noise that is the city of Mumbai. However, I still think you'd be hard pressed to find a better hotel in this frenetic city.
The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower
Apollo Bunder
Mumbai 400 001
India
Tel No. : (91-22) 6665 3366
Fax No : (91-22) 66650323 /24
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