Despite being an avid traveler, my idea of luxurious relaxation is to enjoy a staycation in my own city. For most people, travel is about observing the sights and sounds of a place, but I believe it is one’s experiences that make truly memorable trips. During staycations, one can make memories through uniquely enriching experiences. Before telling you my favourite places for staycationing in Delhi, I am listing out the advantages of a staycation over outbound travel:
- You are near your home and place of work, so important meetings don’t need to be put off.
- You save money on the travel expenses for flights/trains/taxis etc.
- By saving money on travel expenses, you can sample more expensive and luxurious hospitality in your own city.
- You have the opportunity to enjoy the spa, swimming pool and dining facilities of a hotel extensively. In other cities, most of your time is tied up in exploring the city.
- You have the ability to book a stay in the off-season period and avail massive discounts.
- You can easily plan last-minute weekend stays.
- The memberships of five-star hotel chains, often come with a complimentary night in any of their properties. This is best utilized in a local staycation.
- You can enjoy a family vacation with young children and senior citizens, without the problems of long distance travel.
- You have an opportunity to discover new gems in your own city.
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If you are convinced about the merits of a staycationing in your city, let me share with you my favourite staycation destinations in Delhi. Before I begin, however, I must put out a disclaimer- though I have stayed in many hotels of Delhi-NCR, I haven’t stayed in each one. The ones mentioned here are my picks, but there may be other hotels worthy of the tag as well. If you have stayed in a property in Delhi-NCR that is not mentioned in this list, please add it in the comments below for the benefit of other readers.
Here are my picks of the best luxury staycations in Delhi-NCR:
- THE OBEROI, NEW DELHI:
Having celebrated my birthday with a staycation at this hotel last week, it is freshest in my mind. The Oberoi is synonymous with luxury and old-world hospitality. The hotel in New Delhi was refurbished two years ago, and the rooms were given a complete makeover. We were upgraded to a Premier Room, which was spacious, well-laid out and offered a phenomenal view of Delhi’s green cover.
The coffee shop, ‘360’, has a wonderful buffet breakfast as well as a lovely English Afternoon Tea Service. Their sushi is good too! The Chinese restaurant, ‘Baoshuan’, has a lovely dimsum menu that I particularly enjoy.
The signature spa I experienced was thoroughly rejuvenating, and the swimming pool was very inviting.
Location: Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg, Delhi Golf Club, Golf Links, New Delhi
- THE IMPERIAL, NEW DELHI:
This is the oldest 5-star property in Delhi, and has an entirely unique charm. Its heritage building, friendly service and plentiful food options made me select it as my birthday staycation destination for two years in a row. The hotel is also special, because I celebrated my engagement with my family and friends in the gorgeous San Gimignano Lawns here.
You must sample the delicious South-Asian offerings at ‘Spice Route’, breakfast buffet spread at the ‘1911 Coffee Shop’, authentic Italian food at ‘San Gimignano’ and the Indian food at ‘Daniell’s Tavern’.
The spa facilities are truly luxurious and their swimming pool is one of the most beautiful in Delhi.
Location: Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi
- ITC MAURYA, NEW DELHI:
I have many personal memories attached to this hotel- visiting ‘The Pavilion’ coffee shop for family celebrations as a child; having my sangeet night (pre-wedding party) at the verdant Nandiya Gardens; and celebrating my second anniversary here while being heavily pregnant. The hotel is one of my favourites because the staff goes out of their way to make guests comfortable.
ITC hotels are known for their fabulous dining options. You are spoilt for choice at this property with ‘The Pavilion’ coffee shop, ‘Bukhara’ and ‘Dum Pukht’ that serve variants of North Indian cuisine, ‘Tian’ for Chinese food and Ottimo for world cuisine. The Kaya Kalp Spa is also worth a visit.
Location: Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
- ITC GRAND BHARAT, GURGAON:
The Grand Bharat is ITC’s answer to the royal palatial hotels of other premier chains. The grand heritage façade, luxurious interiors, fabulous spa and world-class golf course are the prime attractions. The impeccable service, private swimming pools attached to most rooms and varied culinary options are added benefits!
Location: Hasanpur, Tauru, Gurugram, Haryana
- THE LEELA PALACE, NEW DELHI:
I spent the first two days of marital life in this plush hotel. The swimming pool on the roof, a memorable couple’s spa, fabulous authentic Japanese food at ‘Megu’, and European food at ‘Le Cirque’, were the highlights of our stay. I highly recommend a visit here!
Location: Africa Avenue, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
- THE WESTIN SOHNA RESORTS & SPA:
For a fantastic holiday on a budget, The Westin Sohna Resort, should be your choice. Located an hour and a half away from Delhi, it is the perfect family getaway. There are multiple activities for children of all age groups, including a field where emu birds and other animals, roam free.
The large rooms, beautifully laid out bathrooms, and individual lawns attached to each room make a relaxing environment. The spa, dining facilities and attentive service further add to the charm.
Location: Vatika Complex, Dhaula, Karanki Road, Sohna, Haryana
- THE GATEWAY RESORT DAMDAMA LAKE:
The Taj Gateway Resort in Damdama Lake, is a nice alternative to The Westin Sohna. It also has spacious rooms with attached lawn space, decent spa and dining facilities. Adventure sports available on the property are a major attraction, including ziplining, zorbing, rock-climbing and even camel rides for the little ones.
Location: Damdama, Sohna-Gurgaon Road, Gurugram, Haryana
So here are my picks for the best staycation in Delhi-NCR. Have you stayed in any of these hotels? How was your experience? Also, let me know which hotel I should stay in next!
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