Raadia Mukadam checks out Taj Residency Aurangabad

Aurangabad, renowned for the world famous heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, is a city that weaves in tradition and new economy modernism. In sync with the city culture, this small town’s big offering, The Taj Residency set in five acres of well manicured lush lawns is a monumental facade reminding you of a bygone era, combining a distinctive blend of comfortable and understated elegance.

With an inventory of 38 rooms and two suites it is small enough to make you feel at home, unintimidated by the conventional razzmatazz, characteristic of most five-star properties, yet opulent enough for trademark Taj grandeur. However, this palatial property comes across as a tad bit extravagant for a business hotel.

Situated not more than nine kms from the airport and railway station, The Taj Residency enjoys a highly central position in the heart of Aurangabad's commercial district, an easy access to all the major business addresses. In fact if I had to describe the property in two words it would be ‘comfortable and convenient’.

Check-in procedure is prompt and follows 12 noon check-out, however their flexi check-out, allowing guests to extend their check-out to 6 pm the following day, is a boon to business travellers. You may not get a butler service here (quite unheard of in this city) but staff that are professional and personalised make up for it. Priced at Rs 2,500 for a double room, the 38 spacious rooms, though alike in shape and size have been furnished with indigenous objects d'art to capture the soul of the historic Ellora and Ajanta Caves. These are complimented by capacious bathrooms with all the trappings of luxurious toiletries. For an additional Rs 2,000 you can opt for one of the two lavish suites, each with a private verandah and swing overlooking the lush lawns.

Rooms are well-appointed and the property is geared to service corporate clients with a host of business facilities including a 24 hour business centre equipped with a copier, email, facsimile, personal computers, secretarial services and work-station availability. Currency exchange, travel assistance and car rental take care of your travel trivia.

The hotel also has a conferencing facility at its meeting room ‘The Pavilion’ with a theatre-style seating capacity for 200 persons.

If you have the time and the inclination, the hotel also organises short excursions to the world famous Ellora Caves (an hour away from Aurangabad), or the equally famous Ajanta Caves, a two hour journey.

Catering to a city that does not boast of an 'eat-out' culture, the property sports one multi-cuisine restaurant and bar presenting a large spread of Indian, Chinese and Continental delicacies. The round-the-clock coffee shop faces the lawns and could be an ideal way to begin your day. However, the restaurants are at the lower level and could be cumbersome for senior citizens, or for the physically impaired, as there are no elevators in this two-storey property.

For recreation you may try the fully equipped fitness centre which also administers a range of massages for both men and women, or simply indulge in the enormous pool set amidst landscaped greens. Don’t be vexed about the kids if they are accompanying you on this business trip as you can avail of baby sitting service on request.