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of Rucha and Ashish Gupta, Footprint is essentially used by travelers transiting through Chennai on their way to or from the Andamans (Ashish is cofounder and director of “Barefoot at Havelocks” in the Andaman Islands, hence the name). It’s quiet, private, classy (fresh flowers, Auroville incense, great linens, a choice of pillows), well located (in the south-central posh suburb of Alwarpet, close to shops and restaurants), filled with thoughtful touches and just unbelievable value. Rucha and her small staff (breakfast cook/concierge/chambermaid) is on hand to assist with any queries, from how much to pay your rickshaw driver, to where to eat (or order in) and shop for specifics. (Note: no walk-ins, so book in advance.)

Flat 2a and 2b, Gayatri Apts., 16 South St, Sriram Nagar, Alwarpet, Chennai 600 018. 044/98400-37483 or 3255-7720. Fax 044/2434-2668. www.footprint.in. bookings@footprint.in. 9 units (all en-suite; showers only). Rs 3000 double, including breakfast. Children under 12 Rs 250; extra adult Rs 500. MC, V (100% upfront payment required). Amenities: 2 small living areas; dining area; daily newspapers and selection of glossy magazines; small library nook; airport transfers; concierge; Internet (free). In room: A/C, TV, Wi-Fi (free)

Lemon Tree This relative newcomer offers comfortable hotel accommodations and facilities at a price that its competitors are finding impossible to beat. It’s by no means luxurious, with that slightly stark pared-down atmosphere typical of any budget hotel, but everything is gleaming new and fresh (or was at press time; at these rates the hotel occupancy will remain high and may take it’s toll!). It also has a ladies-only floor; excellent-value standard rooms; dedicated smoke-free rooms (worth specifying), and the kind of facilities and generous touches (like free morning newspapers) one associates with more expensive options. Staff is generally also of high caliber. The only drawback is that its location in Guindy means it’s a little far from the center—at least 45 minutes to Egmore railway station (25 min. to the airport).

72 Sardar Patel Rd., Guindy, Chennai 600 018. 044/4423-2323. Fax 044/4423-2121. www.lemontreehotels.com. hi.cn@lemontreehotels.com. 108 units. Rs 2,900 standard (single occupancy only); Rs 4,400 double superior; Rs 6,500 double executive; Rs 7,500 studio. Rates include breakfast. MC, V. Amenities: Restaurant; lounge with pool table, PlayStation, and other games; airport transfers (Rs750); fitness center; outdoor pool; room service. In room: A/C, TV, minibar, Wi-Fi (Rs 80/30 min.).

The Park The Park (not to be confused with the ITC Park Sheraton and Towers on TTK Rd.) is the place to mainline straight into Chennai’s nightlife. Once the trendiest hotel in town, some of the effects are looking a little dated, and the reception area is showing a little wear and tear (as do bathroom fittings), which is why we prefer Raintree. But there’s no doubting its place in the hearts of Chennai movers and groovers, who flock here to dine at the 24-hour eatery off the lobby, Six-O-One (601), recommended for its unusual, varied menu (and one of the best masala dosas in the city), as well as to the Leather Bar and Pasha, two of the city’s most popular after-hours hangouts (see below). Having covered Chennai’s social scene (being a guest here gives you free access), you can retreat to your extremely comfortable “pod,” and sleep off events on one very comfortable mattress. The Park’s other celebrated feature is its terrific rooftop: a sparkling pool surrounded by diwans (Indian recliner sofas), shaded by white cotton drapes that billow in the breeze. The snazzy Ispahani shopping center is within walking distance.

601 Anna Salai, Chennai 600 006. 044/4214-4000. Fax 044/4214-4100. www.theparkhotels.com. 214 units. Rs 11,500 deluxe double; Rs 13,500 luxury double; Rs 15,000–Rs 40,000 suites. Extra bed Rs 2,000. AE, DC, MC, V. Amenities: 3 restaurants; bar; nightclub; doctor-on-call; fitness center; rooftop pool; room service. In room: A/C, TV, hair dryer; minibar, Wi-Fi (Rs TK).

Raintree