Hey, Fabs!

Prior to planning my trip to northern India, I was unaware of the fabulousness of ITC's luxury collection of hotels. I had no clue they even existed! When I informed the travel company I hired to help plan my trip to India that I required luxury accommodations in all cities I visited, they immediately suggested ITC hotels in Agra and Jaipur. The ITC hotel in Agra was great but paled in comparison to the ITC Rajputana in Jaipur.

When my driver pulled up to the front entrance of the hotel, I was immediately greeted with a warm  "Namaste" from a bellman. I was then escorted through a golden revolving door where I was promptly welcomed by a beautiful young lady with a perfectly done-up face wearing traditional Indian attire. She smiled at me politely and proceeded to welcome me by gently placing a ceremonial Indian dot on my forehead. It was such a fabulous way to be welcomed to the Pink City of Jaipur.



Immediately after checking in, I was given a tour of the hotel by the fabulous and graceful Ms. Piya Patiyar. She explained to me the history of ITC Rajputana and pointed out the hotels most fabulous amenities. The bar opens at 11 a.m. by the way. That was particularly important for me to know because I like to indulge in early-morning cocktails sometimes when I'm traveling.



ITC Rajputanta has a total of five restaurants, bars, and lounges. I didn't have time to luxuriate in each one; however, after one long day of sightseeing, I was pleasantly surprised to stumble upon a dance and musical performance at the property's poolside bar and pavilion. Additionally, the next morning, I ate breakfast in Jal Mahal, their fabulous multi-cuisine, buffet-style restaurant which serves traditional Indian as well as popular western foods.



Perhaps, however, what was most fabulous about this hotel was the Kaya Kalp spa which offers complimentary steam room and sauna sessions to guests. As with every other area of this hotel, the spa's interior design is classy and elegant. The spa's vibe gave me feminine, rich, and modern. I particularly liked that because, as with other luxury spas I've visited, most places that cater to luxury travelers have a tendency to feel old and stale. But this place made me feel young and vibrant.






Lastly, the royal treatment I received from staff at this hotel was divine. Everyone from the bellman to the receptionists to the chefs to the maids were completely courteous and helpful. Best part is, they didn't linger around wanting a tip for their services. They genuinely served me and treated me like a queen because it was in their nature - not because they knew they'd get a tip from me if they provided topnotch service.

Staying at ITC Rajputana in Jaipur, India was a fabulous treat. I feel so enriched and elevated as a result of my stay there. Now, if only I can find this type of fabulous and luxurious hotel in America. I'm open to suggestions, Fabs. Leave me a comment to let me know your favorite luxury hotel in the U.S.A.

With love,

Quan Lanae Green