Agra: ITC Mughal (February 2008)

Very pleased with this choice! Of course, if money were no object, I would have chosen the Oberoi, but at $125 USD per night rather than $700, I cannot compliment them enough. It's a standard chain hotel, with huge chandelier in the lobby, several shops, astrologer (interesting!), and four restaurants. One restaurant is buffet (breakfast was included with our rate, but upon check-out, was charged separately, leading us to believe that if we hadn't eaten, the charge would have been deducted), one was Oriental/Chinese, one was continental and had both indoor and outdoor (near the pool) seating, and the high-end choice called Peshawri (very spicy food, typically eaten with ones hands, but a novel option that I would recommend). There's also a nice lobby bar (chips and nuts are complimentary with drink orders). The rooms were a nice size, with a sitting area; bathrooms provided all the amenities one could want (e.g., toiletries, hairdryers, robes, slippers). Nice pool, but they could use a few more sun lounger chairs. There are lots of fountains around the pool, and some ponds/water features upon entering the hotel. The doormen/taxi callers provided excellent service, and dressed traditionally (be sure to take a photo of their moustaches). A supposedly world-class spa is set to open here soon. It is possible to view the Taj Mahal from the viewing platform at the hotel. It would be an excellent view, except for the ever-present smoke/smog/haze (it was better visible in my digital photos than in person). The hotel willingly changed money for us, but there was no ATM machine that we saw anywhere nearby. The reviews of the hotel aren't all that glowing, but I can't really list any complaint. Someone questioned the hotel receiving the Agha Khan award for architecture, but when I learned of the qualifications of this award, it is deserved (buildings arranged around a center courtyard with water elements, foliage, etc.). I wouldn't hesitate to stay here again, and pocket the extra money.