Shimla, Oberoi Cecil Hotel

The Oberoi Cecil Hotel in Shimla, India has to be one of the best hotels I have stayed at. Shimla is a nice little town that still lives up to the 'days of the Raj' image.

Staff - The staff at the Oberoi group of hotels are generally better trained and more sensible than at other Indian hotels. The staff at the Cecil must be the elite of the Oberoi group. As soon as we arrived in our room a member of staff offered to help us unpack, and pack when we left. There was the usual welcome fruit pack etc. We were introduced to our 'personal' assistant who we could contact for anything. At dinner the Chef personally came to see us and offered to cook anything, even if wasn't on the menu.

Location - Everything in Shimla is a short walk away. The hotel is very well situated.

Decor - The hotel has been refurbished recently, and it looks rather like a cross between a British gentleman's club and a Scottish lodge. There is a lot of wood and leather used in abundance. The paintings that cover the main area are imposing.

Food - The food was excellent. The Hotel gave you the choice of whether you wanted breakfast in a buffet style or a la carte, or even both. Lunch was an extensive choice of Indian or continental food. The standards are very high, and the Chef is willing to make anything for you, even if it's not on the menu.

Facilities - The swimming pool is great, and the views of the mountains from the pool are breathtaking.