This opulent, slightly brash hotel is not quite so massively over-the-top or overwhelming as its older sister, the Taj Palace Hotel, but it does have an exciting atmosphere and a range of superefficient amenities. Its major drawing card, however, is the high esteem in which it is held locally — this is one of the best places to watch the Delhi glitterati at play and work. Capped by zardozi domes, the carefully decorated lobby sees a variety of beautiful models and high-powered execs swishing in and out the front door. Despite wonderful service and every amenity you could wish for, guest rooms are unexceptional. You can splurge on a luxurious room on the Taj Club floor, where you’ll enjoy a dedicated check-in after being fetched from the airport in a limousine, but at this price you may as well consider The Oberoi. A good-value alternative is to book at the Taj Group’s Ambassador and hang out here (it has a great pool and restaurants) during the day.