The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

The Taj Mahal Palace is an iconic hotel that's often included on Mumbai must-see lists. It has the distinction as the first Taj hotel in the world and the first licensed bar in India. The hotel is divided into two parts: the New Wing and the Old Wing. The Old Wing is the historic part of the hotel, built in 1903 during British Rule. Both wings are equally spectacular, with palace-like interiors featuring original artwork, marble flooring, exquisite wall and ceiling detaisl, wide hallways, and beautiful carpeted stairways. Jasmine scents and fresh flowers fill the hotel. Each of the nine dining facilities feature an individual design and exquisite interiors, all just as elegant as the rest of the hotel and most featuring stunning views of the Gateway of India. The Taj Mahal Palace is mostly frequented by high-end travelers; either on corporate or leisure travel. However, families are also made comfortable here with the Kids@Taj program and babysitting services.

The Taj Mahal Palace is located in the Colaba neighborhood, one of the oldest areas of South Mumbai. It overlooks the Arabian Sea and has a great view of the Gateway of India -- particularly as the lights come on at night. It's also located in the middle of a shopping street with numerous restaurants and shops within close walking distance. It will take about six minutes on foot to get to the Gateway of India from the hotel's front door. The National Gallery of Modern Art is an eight-minute walk from the hotel. It's a 27-minute drive to Haji Ali Dargah. For luxury shopping, High Street Phoenix Mall and Palladium Mall are both a 42-minute drive from the hotel. Churchgate Railway Station is the nearest train station, a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Colaba Port is a six-minute walk away. Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is an hours' drive from the hotel.

The 550 rooms, including 42 suites, at The Taj Mahal Palace are all exquisitely decorated with elegant Old World charm. Decor includes original paintings, period furniture, patterned carpets, and luxurious linens. There are 10 categories, each including their own signature highlight. The suites all have additional character in their unique architectural design and evocative decor. All units include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, tea- and- coffee-making facilities, minibars, safes, telephones, and free Wi-Fi. The small added details in each room make for an even more luxurious experience; including a pillow menu, softer or firmer beds on request, a bath menu, yoga kit, free bottled water and newspapers, and specific suit, skirt, and padded hangers. Guests in the Palace Wing have access to personal 24-hour butler service. Bathrooms are lush with marble tops and high-end features, including either walk-in shower and soaking bathtubs or shower/tub combos, magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, and free house-brand toiletries. Bathrobes and slippers are also provided. 

The most attractive features of The Taj Mahal Palace are its location and its iconic reputation for luxury. Of course, there are several other spectacular features of this hotel starting with the total of nine dining facilities, including four fine-dining specialty restaurants: Wasabi by Morimoto specializes in Japanese cuisine; Golden Dragon serves Chinese; Masala Kraft provides contemporary Indian; and Souk serves Eastern Mediterranean. Shamina offers a la carte international cuisine, as well as a buffet breakfast with a daily changing menu (breakfast not included in all room rates). Aquarius, positioned next to the pool, serves lighter meals, signature cocktails, and delicious desserts. There's Harbour Bar for drinks and tapas, Sea Lounge for afternoon tea, and La Patisserie for sweet treats. The hotel also offers personalized private dining experiences upon request.

There are two spas: The Jiva Spa and Taj Salon. The Jiva Spa is the main spa in the hotel, offering a range of treatments and experiences. Some include Indian therapies and aromatherapies, body scrubs and wraps, beauty treatments, spa indulgences, and yoga and meditation. The Taj Salon offers a range of grooming services for both men and women, including hair treatments, facials, and massages. The 24-hour fitness center has Technogym equipment and there are free yoga sessions each morning next to the pool. The outdoor swimming pool is large and surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas. Towel service is provided. 

There's an extensive event area with seven fully-equipped meeting rooms with conference facilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, secretarial assistance, interpretation facilities, and workstations. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and premium Wi-Fi available for an additional fee. Other amenities include valet parking, kid-friendly services like Kids@Taj programs and babysitting, a travel desk, heritage walks for guests upon request, and tours of the Taj Art Gallery.