India (Frommer's, 4th Edition) - Keith Bain [341]
Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre Yet another bid to appeal to their target—the business traveler—Marriott now boasts the largest convention center in the country. Given its location next to the Hussain Sagar Lake, it’s almost a sure shot that most rooms will have a good view. Combine that with plush decor, prompt service, and the recently introduced Revive bed—sink into luxurious comfort bedecked in the finest linen and designer duvets—and you’ve got a good deal in hand, albeit in an environment repeated everywhere in the world. As the rooms are a little small, you may want to fork out a little extra to stay at the exclusive executive level, with a very beautiful lounge offering all possible amenities to pamper you and spacious rooms done in earthy tones, dark wood and marble.
Opposite Hussain Sagar Lake, Tank Bund Rd., Hyderabad 500 080. 040/2752-2999. Fax 040/2752-8888. http://marriott.com. 293 units. Doubles from $212—$273. Rates include breakfast. AE, MC, V. Amenities: 2 restaurants; bar; airport transfer (Rs 3,385); doctor-on-call; fitness center; pool; Wi-Fi (Rs 441/hr., Rs 882/day). In room: A/C, TV, hair dryer, Internet broadband connection (Rs 414/hr., Rs 827/day).
Ista As you drive to this brand-new business hotel, an amazing paradox greets you—massive cranes shape steel-and-chrome giants for the biggest companies in the world, amid century old boulders and shrubbery dotting the landscape—it is by far the most interesting place to stay if you want to be anywhere near what is shaping up to be as the future Hyderabad. Under the flagship of the award winning Ananda in the Himalayas, Ista is spread over 7 hectares (17 acres) of greenery and boulders. It’s functional and smart, although a wee bit dull. Rooms are a bit small and need better soundproofing—opt for the luxury category which come with porches, wooden floors, large walk-in closets, stylish lighting, and for once, a terrific office chair at the desk. It may be a good half-hour away from the city but you have the best spa in town to come back to!
Rd. no. 2, I.T. Park, Gachi Bowli Hyderabad 500 019. 040/4450-9999. Fax 040/4450-8888. www.istahotels.com. 160 units. Rs 15,000 premium; Rs 16,000 deluxe; Rs 19,000 luxury; Rs 25,000 deluxe suite; Rs 33,000 luxury suite; taxes extra. All rooms include breakfast; except for premium, others offer complimentary Wi-Fi, transfers, cocktails, and laundry. AE, DC, MC, V. Amenities: 2 restaurants; bar; tea lounge; airport transfer (Rs 1,100); concierge; currency exchange; doctor-on-call; health club; heated pool; room service; spa with steam and sauna. In room: A/C, TV, minibar; Wi-Fi (Rs 120/hr., Rs 600/day).
ITC Hotel Kakatiya Sheraton & Towers Not as opulently over-the-top as Taj Krishna, this hotel is billed as the best business hotel in town. Public spaces are smartly decorated in a vibrant and culturally evocative assortment of objets d’art typical of the region—decorative silver bidri pieces, detailed frescoes, and elegant furniture in rich fabrics. Guest rooms are wonderfully spacious; even the cheapest corporate rooms are large and nicely finished (twins only). The best views are of Hussain Sagar Lake, the city, and the pool (book a room with a number ending in 01, 03, 05, 11, 17, or 19 for the least obstructed view). The atmosphere here is one of down-to-earth sophistication. Staff is friendly and helpful, if not always on the ball.
Begumpet, Hyderabad 500 016. 040/2340-0132. Fax 040/2340-1045. www.welcomgroup.com. 188