HOTEL: Delhi, Imperial

Pictures don’t capture how magnificent the Imperial Hotel in Delhi truly is. From the lush, impeccably maintained grounds surrounded by palm trees, green grass and perfectly sculpted hedges, to the immaculately cleaned building, the Imperial is a showcase for tourists of India. Travelers are whisked from their very late night arrival at the IGI airport through truck, smog and dust filled streets into the oasis that the Imperial provides.

When arriving in the wee hours of the morning from your flight,  the usual host of greeters has long gone home. Instead you’ll find yourself walking into a deserted lobby teeming with character but without all the actors. Check-in can take some time here. Even with reservations for two separate visits, it seemed there was a hang-up both times that prevented a swift retreat to a room. A rather large mix-up on the second stay left my travel partner and I in a room with one bed instead of the requested twin beds. Regardless of their mistake, we were charged the extra $60 per night for a roll-away to be brought in.

Great shopping on Jan Path beyond the Imperial gates

Junior executive rooms, the lowest cost and smallest size, are still spacious helped by over-sized windows and very high ceilings. Every attention to detail has been addressed with the design from heavy wood baseboards to expertly painted walls to perfectly hung pictures. Large armoires provide storage for belongings in keeping with a British Victorian time period. This theme of 5 star class extends into the bathrooms with granite countertops, a dedicated 110V plug-in, large over-sized shower and of course a Western toilet.

Signage in the bathroom and welcome brochure explain the in-house filtration system which affords guests drinkable options for tap water.

The art deco building is furnished with quality Victorian designed pieces fused with Indian accents. Heavy wood paneling are seen throughout the hallways, in-house restaurants and rooms of the hotel. For an enjoyable exercise, stroll around the grounds where usually you’ll see several staff members polishing, raking and pruning around the building and property.

With 5 star appointments in design and comfort, guests expect a superior level of dining options. The Imperial does not fall short. Breakfast is served at the 1911 restaurant just off the lobby. The actual dining area encompasses 3 areas but guests are most comfortable in the veranda area. Two large, over flowing tables give hungry travelers choices in fresh fruit, juices, grains and bakery items. A chef prepares made-to-order omelet and egg requests just off the main seating area. And thankfully, espresso is available to jolt you awake from your first restless night due to the time difference. Breakfast was never a disappointing meal over the course of two separate, multi-day stays.

Happy with my breakfast experiences, I tried 1911 for an early dinner one day. The same prompt service from uniformed Indian servers that cover breaksfast were in attendance. Menu options were mostly Indian and executed wonderfully with my order of Paneer Tikka still sticking in my mouth. No other place has come close to matching the quality and presentation. Large chunks of tandoor cooked paneer with a spiced coating unfolded in flavor from the fresh lime juice I applied to each bite.

On another dining occasion, my travel partner and I woke up from a nap too tired to venture out from the Imperial. We ventured into Daniell’s Tavern for a late lunch. Another excellent choice.

1911 Veranda

Online and printed reviews are mixed for the overall service of the Imperial. I agree that the management staff / front desk can be surly and off-putting at times, however all my requests were fulfilled in short order. Skip the concierge service unless you’re really torn on directions. As with any hotel that offers in-house dining, spa services and laundry, this group is not going to direct you to the many wonderful Delhi options besides sightseeing.

If you’re looking for terrific gift items, walk just beyond the hotel gates to Jan Path. Both sides of this extremely busy street are lined with shops crammed with Indian trinkets. Avoid hailing a taxi from the Imperial doorman if possible as the drivers will steer you to shops where they get a kick-back. If you’re insistent on taking a taxi from hotel, be forewarned the driver will await your return (regardless of time) in hopes of cashing in on your shopping. Also, he will block other taxi drivers from taking your fare. It becomes a rather uncomfortable situation so instead, hail a tuk tuk or taxi from Jan Path.

Money changing services are available at the front desk with competitive rates. Wi-Fi connects throughout the entire hotel but you’ll pay a premium for the service. STD calling from your room is available but also at a premium.

The Imperial is comfortable, luxurious, clean and accessible to the sights of Delhi. Budget travelers, this is not gonna work for you.

© 2010 FullStopIndia.com India Travel Blog

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