Taj Lands End, Mumbai

BACKGROUND As one of the most well-known hotels in the Mumbai suburbs, Taj Lands End, Mumbai is an evergreen favourite with locals and international travellers alike.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? Despite having

493 rooms and suites, the size of this hotel is actually quite unassuming. The lobby area is exquisite and spacious. Since the inventory of the hotel is high, there are several reception and concierge areas where prompt staff help you out with the formalities.

WHERE IS IT? Literally perched at “Land’s End”, the southernmost tip of Bandra. The hotel is located beside Bandra Fort, with views over the Bandra-Worli Sea Link bridge spanning Mahim Bay, as well as the sprawling city inland.

ROOMS Featuring a mix of soft pastels and dark wood, the entry-level accommodation options start with 37 sqm Deluxe and Luxury rooms, both with sea views, then a variety of options up to the 279 sqm Presidential Suite.

I stayed in an absolutely beautiful

Luxury Suite Sea View, which offered a majestic view of the sea and the cityscape in all its glory – in my opinion, pretty much the most iconic view of Mumbai you can have. Not surprisingly, sitting by the window is where I spent most of my time.

Featuring a grand and spacious living room, a luxurious bedroom and a kitchenette, the Luxury Suite is tastefully designed and exudes elegance in every aspect. The work desk is exceptionally large and faces the window for stunning views while you work.

FOOD AND DRINK Atrium Bar & Lounge on the lobby level has a fantastic Bandra Trails Hi Tea that serves the traditional English high tea with a classic Bandra touch that will definitely resonate with locals. I loved every bite of the classic Bandra dishes which were reconstructed to suit international tastes. Dinner was at Masala Bay where I enjoyed a traditional Indian meal inspired by the Awadh region — this included some mouthwatering Tunday kebabs, “dhabba-walla” chicken, biryani and chur chur naan. Next morning, I enjoyed breakfast at The Chambers Lounge, an exclusive business club area on the 25th floor, where I munched avocado on brioche sprinkled with authentic Italian truffle shavings. I also savoured a selection of cheeses, including brie, cheddar, goat’s and parmesan, along with some fresh orange juice.

Lunch was a light spread from Ming Yang, which serves authentic Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine. I tasted some of its pan-Asian specialities, including Ming Yang chicken along with egg fried rice.

MEETINGS The hotel offers a ballroom, well-appointed private rooms, and seaside lawns with capacity for outside events for up to 2,000 attendees. Events spaces are kitted out with the latest equipment, plus there is a five-storey parking facility.

LEISURE The Taj’s signature Jiva Spa offers a range of rejuvenation therapies. I indulged in a deep-tissue massage that helped with my stiff muscles. Niu & Nau, the hotel’s classy salon, overlooks a beautiful view of the sea, with manicure/ pedicure sundowner experiences not to be missed, as well as barber services for men.

VERDICT Ideal for a work-from-anywhere kind of staycation, with exceptional views of the city, delicious F&B and comforting leisure facilities. Akanksha Maker

The Luxury Suite is tastefully designed and exudes elegance in every aspect