Although we are not of the Sikh faith, going to Amritsar was something both the boyfriend and I were looking forward to.When we had guests visiting us who were also interested in going there, we thought this would be the best opportunity to go. Having heard SO much about the Golden Temple, it was on our list of ’’10 places to see in North India’’. We were not disappointed. There is something so holy about this place - it just hits you in the face. The serenity and the sheer devotion of the people is just something you have to see. An added attraction is a visit to the Wagah Border. I’m telling you, the patriotism in you just rises. Brilliant show by both sides of the border and a complete adrenaline high!! Do go. You won’t be disappointed.
You will however be disappointed with the Ritz Plaza. We were told this was the best in Amritsar. Something tells me that was incorrect information. It looks great from the outside - the inside is not a pretty story.
First, they messed up our reservations. We had booked three double rooms, they offered us three twin rooms. When we protested, a very disinterested bellboy showed us to the double rooms.
The rooms and the general ambiance:
It felt like this hotel was built in 1970 and then the management just forgot to renovate! Not to mention the constant smell of sour milk in the corridors!! The decor of the rooms was very dark. From the upholstery on the couches and the matching bedcovers to the drapes, it looked like a bad 70’s flick.
The showers only gave hot water. If you wanted some cold water mixed in - nope. Not possible. Ask the angry red marks on my shoulders :-(
They have one all-purpose restaurant which doubles up as the coffee shop. And they have a Bar. I must admit that the food was good – although the service was appalling! We ordered 5 chicken burgers and 20 minutes after placing the order, a very sheepish waiter returned telling us to order something else as the burgers were over…(!!?!!) It took 30 minutes to get beer and they had the strangest rules for happy hours!
The buffet breakfast had very cold and congealed food. One of us wanted a cheese, tomato and onion omelette. The cook forgot to put in onions and tomatoes and when he was asked to change it, he just broke open the cheese omelette and added raw onions and tomatoes from the top as garnish! Nouvelle Cuisine wot? :-S
All in all, I don’t know if this is the best hotel in Amritsar…and if it is…name be damned – this definitely ‘aint the Ritz!