Agra, Oberoi Amarvilas

Stayed two nights at the Agra Oberoi Amarvilas, driving from Delhi (approx 4 hours).

First impressions are WOW! Beautiful building and perfect location.

Our room was fairly small, with the usual trimmings etc, that you'd expect in a 5 star hotel.

The food is average, at best. I was staying with an Indian friend, he thought it pretty poor too! Dinner on the terrace (set menu of usual Indian fayre was $100 US each plus drinks).

Pool was great, with a snack menu and pool butlers who were competent.

Spa was very overrated. Why have a Thai company (Banyan Tree) running a spa in India? Massage treatments were OK, but about as authentic Indian as Tom Yam Goong.

The steam and sauna are mixed, which is very unusual. This might be cool in Europe, but here it means sitting and steaming in swimming costumes and T shirts (American guests).

Sometimes a hotel shows its true colours in the way they deal with problems. I bought a cigar in the bar which wouldn't draw at all. Most places replace a cigar like that, not here. So I paid $20 for nothing. A VSOP brandy was $15 US for a measure just short of 25ml. Probably the most expensive brandy I've ever tasted in any hotel anywhere.

Overall, a hotel to walk around, admire and take pictures. We felt like we were staying in a photo studio with the number of flash bulbs going off, as the majority of guests ate and drank OUTSIDE and came in only to sleep and take pictures.

I guess you only visit the Taj Mahal once (with the same partner at any rate) so they don't need to worry unduly about repeat business.

I stayed once before at the Sheraton, Aggra. One third of the price, but you still get a view of the Taj (at a premium). I'd return to the Sheraton next time.