Delhi is a massive metropolis and boasts a number of popular commercial and industrial areas right from Vasant Vihar and posh Connaught Place to the bustling Panchsheel. Travelers from all over the world, global organizations and companies have a base in Delhi and need to travel to the city at some point in time. There are many business hotels that have sprung up in New Delhi over the last few years; after all, it is the capital city. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you're making a selection:
The location is everything!
The smartest thing to do is to find accommodation close to your area of business. One of the main considerations while choosing a business hotel should be the distance: from the airport, from the business centre or conference hall. Another factor to consider is whether your client is staying there too? Considering distance and travelling time while booking the hotel in Delhi's infamous traffic jams means you won't be late showing up for a meeting. Choose a hotel that enables you to easily get to and from, for a planned meeting. Ensure that the hotel can arrange for transport services that you would need to use.
Tip: Choose a hotel in Central Delhi's Connaught Place, just a 30-minutes' drive from the international airport. New Delhi Railway Station is just 2 kilometres from here and it also has a metro station called Rajiv Chowk. The Imperial, New Delhi here is just perfect for a luxurious stay. Depending upon your budget you can also choose from other mid-range budget hotels in the locality.
Service Matters!
When you have a long trip that can leave you jet-lagged and tired upon arrival, it helps to find that the hotel amenities and staff are comforting and attentive to your needs. It's essential that when you ask for that dreaded, early morning wake-up call that the request is carried out on time, and you also want to trust that you'll have a taxicab called when needed or that your laundry will be ready on time. It all depends on where you are going to stay. If you have booked your accommodation at a luxury hotel then whatever you need, they'll go above and beyond to ensure your time with them is nothing short of extraordinary. The Imperial New Delhi stands out for its unbeatable 24 hour room-service menu, you can call for the most indulgent services anytime of the day.
Tip: Inform the hotel staff, well in advance, if you're celebrating a special occasion or if you're part of the hotel's loyalty program. With their assistance everything can just be up to your imagination.
After All it's Business!
It's also important to research the business services that your hotel provides. Check with the hotel concierge about the technology (Wi-Fi, computers, and printer) and the ease of access before you book your stay. From my experience, I can say that most boutique hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi and have a decent business centre or conference room. The Imperial in Connaught place is one of the most preferred luxury business hotels in the country, housing the first standalone business centre in the city, which offers everything from a seamless ambience to state-of-the -art technology to keep you up-to-date for any business opportunity.
Tip: Call in advance and share your itinerary with the hotel. From cab bookings to reserving tables to making sure that your room is near the business centre- they will take care of it all.
Unwinding is Key!
After a hectic day at work, it can be rejuvenating to relax in a pool, at the gym or in a spa. Look for a hotel that has in-house leisure facilities so that you can take some time to recharge yourself. Hit the hotel spa for a rejuvenating massage or simply laze at the pool side after a swim. Choosing a hotel at Connaught Place, Delhi allows you to visit some popular tourist places within a 10 km radius like India Gate and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. And if your schedule permits, you can indulge in some shopping at Janpath and CP.
Tip: No one better than the hotel concierge can create tailor-made itineraries to make the best out of your business trip. Discuss with them your schedule and they will plan it for you.
Martin Wynn
