There must be something in the air, even after I asked the room service about the fragrance they use, I quite can’t comply with the fact that its just mesmerising aroma. ’Fresh lilies’ and ’roses’ they said depending upon kind of room they have and fragrance that suits the style. I though he meant- **"suits the mood".
My stays at Hotel Taj Mahal, 1 Mansingh Road to be precise, have always been filled with charming hospitality. Right from entering the lobby through the magnanimous Mughal, I just pass through the feeling of I am a certain victorious entering my castle after a long day battle. Indeed, I am not wrong, as the hectic flight schedule from Mumbai to Delhi, is nothing than a wedged war. The attendant flashes to my Taxi and welcomes me with great pride. I must explain pride here. It’s like an honour, as they express- **’Welcome To The Taj Mahal Miss’. I feel overwhelmed.
No matter what you are wearing on your feet, the moment you enter the lobby, the carpet makes it all exclusive. Remember, carpets only from Kashmir with heavy hand-woven embroidery. The pristine white lobby of The Taj Mahal includes design details reminiscent of Mughal architecture. You can just sit in the lobby and enjoy intricate motifs, golden inlay work, and niches from ‘Shahjahanabad’. And if your taste differs a bit, you might just be lost in oblivion. Reason being, when you hold up the idea of maintaining the Mughal legacy in all forms of art, you do not end up satisfying all. But, what you get in The Taj Mahal Hotel is altogether a different meaning of’satisfaction’ itself. In such a case, what more can satisfy you?
I guess I should move from lobby now, as my luggage has arrived and I need a shower. Welcome to the most essential part of The Taj, its rooms, and the word is an understatement any day. Their small arrangement to make you feel like a king or a queen. And they are just successful in creating that effect and filling you up with luxury. Deluxe & Luxury Rooms, The Taj Club, Executive Suites, Luxury Suites and the Grand Presidential Suite. While my budget allows only for Luxury rooms but manier times I had a walk to the GPS, when empty. That is no less than a trip. The Taj made sure to keep the Lutyen’s art and architecture alive. The artefacts, books, and the furniture design are the original designs of Sir Lutyens plus. And I must mention the BOSE sound system! Woah! In all an experience.
Well, someday I shall stay here. Wicked dream I know, but all personal. Lemme speak something of my room. The only speciality about my room is that I never felt I am staying in a hotel. I have not been made to. Timely service and complete comfort. Few books and wide screen television. Music most importantly. Now the best part. Part the window curtains and you have in front of you, half the Delhi come alive. Right from the Nizamuddin to Lodi Gardens, CP. I take a deep breath. Ahh! Delhi. I quickly took the shower.
Last I came to know that The Taj Mahal is planning to create some new rooms in a contemporary style. I saw couple of rooms made and I suggested them that it’s just not going with the Taj Mahal. This time, the rooms are back to the old taste.
Food at The Taj either defines the character of the Hotel, or stands for the definition of how guests are served when it comes appetite gratification. Food at Taj is just not about spoon and fork, but also the ambience and the way you are attended.
My favourite dining hall has been MACHAN. On a side note- this restaurant has been Voted ‘the best 24 hour International eatery ‘in the city by the Times Food guide’. Ask for any Indian food, they have a smiling yes. Few minutes of wait, and you are served. I am not very fond of Chinese, so I give a pass to HOUSE OF MING. I went to try VARQ this time, their newly launched Indian Cuisine restaurant. Now I am confused if I am going to **MACHAN Or VARQ next time.:(
Anyways, while I am flying back to Mumbai, flying with Taj on another plane is not bad at all. Ah! I forgot to mention about drinks! No No, am in no hangover.
Cheers Folks.
verve