The Taj Mahal Palace

We visited this hotel during a business stay at another 5-star property in Mumbai because it's an icon of the Indian hospitality culture and were very curious to learn more about it, so we decided to come for lunch. We had first a seat in the lobby which has fantastic flower arrangements and a magnificent decoration, however the patio restaurant refused to serve us, even if they still had availability, informing us that they would only had accepted our presence if we had had a room booking at the hotel. That was astonishing and sad. Same rule a few minutes later at the restaurant next to the lobby, where we have been refused again for the same reason. Only an akward bar with loud music was given us as an alternative. We have been surprised by this lack of customer orientation since it's one of the city's largest hotels and not a private members club. A place that cultivates such a hostil attitude towards non-residential guests does probably not deserve to be supported. We have learnt that the Taj is a place to stay away from - so make sure you don't come.

Our visit to this renowned luxury hotel did not unfortunately meet our expectations. For a weekend stay which cost just shy of £1000 (note in India you get penalised by booking early by paying a higher price which we found out after) we didn’t really receive any “personal” service and felt invisible as a guest except by the young lady who hosted the Aquarius poolside cafe and the man who looked after us at golden dragon which offered a delicious dinner as part of our set menu but portion size was for about 6 people when we were only two! On our second night there was a party going on under our room with loud music and bass making the room and corridor vibrate. It was near impossible to sleep with this noise and constant beat so not much of a relaxing stay. Really the highlight of our visit was our day trip out with Arun Shankar to Elephanta Island. He is so knowledgeable and we learned a lot from him and also he got us from A to B without any hassle at all - really recommend his private tours writetoarun3@gmail.com and he was full of tips to share for the rest of our trip all of which we ticked off the list!

Our stay at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai was delightful. This heritage gem truly lives up to its name, blending timeless elegance with impeccable care. The Taj Club lounge is a nice place to grab Tea/coffee/ beverages and if in time, to indulge in some accompaniments too. The fitness centre though small, is adequate. Don't miss the evening show at poolside and Heritage walk of the hotel, for Heritage walk of Hotel do book when you reach. The hospitality was warm and attentive—small details, like Netresh surprising me with a strawberry parfait tailored to my vegan needs. Azeem at the Sea Lounge was a delight, Adil brought the heritage walk to life with his insights, and Nidhee ensured a smooth checkout with a smile. It felt like home, only grander!

We stayed 2 days and were just wrapped in an environment of welcome that exceeded anythingI expected .. The hotel and its elegant nostalgia with modern facilities is a dream, every detail is taken care of, nothing to much .. the sea view rooms in the palace is sublime and so comfortable.. the restaurants and food stunning .. so many ambiance’s under one roof , thank you Taj Mumbai we hope to return.

We have been all around the world & have stayed at all the upscale hotels. This was the most lavish, opulent, glamorous, & charming we have ever visited-inside and out. The staff was the most gracious and helpful we have ever had. You could barely turn around without someone trying to help. We loved the old world gentility. Loya was wonderful for great Indian dishes. (We ate there twice). The Sea Lounge was great for Indian breakfast food. The Taj Club was great for drinks and snacks. And we had to have a “From the Harbor” From the Harbor. We live a long distance away (Chicago), but will come back in an instant if we can..