Kolkata's Aria Hotel: Unforgettable Luxury Awaits!
Aria Hotel, Kolkata: My Honest Take - Luxury…with a Sprinkle of Bengali Charm? (And a Few Unexpected Discoveries!)
Okay, let's cut the crap. Kolkata’s Aria Hotel bills itself as “Unforgettable Luxury Awaits!” and, well, they're mostly right. But trust me, after spending a few blissful (and slightly chaotic) days there, I can tell you the real story. Forget the glossy brochure – this is the Aria Hotel, unfiltered.
First Impressions (and the Elevator Saga):
Arriving at Aria is…well, it's grand. Massive lobby, chandeliers that could blind a small army, and a team of doormen who probably know more about the guests than the guests know about themselves. Check-in was a breeze, thanks to their Contactless check-in/out and generally efficient staff. But! And there’s always a but, isn't there? The elevator situation was a bit…intense. Sometimes I waited longer for that blessed metal box than I do for a decent cup of coffee. But hey, at least they have an Elevator! Gotta appreciate the basics.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, Honestly
Let’s be real, I'm not going to pretend to know everything. I wasn't specifically looking for Wheelchair accessible features, but I did notice the hotel has Facilities for disabled guests, which is a good start. They also have an Elevator, crucial for anyone with mobility issues, and the lobby is spacious. BUT, I couldn't comment on the full range of Accessibility features. I wish I knew more about that, because really, that matters. It's something you absolutely need to confirm firsthand if you require it.
Rooms: My Oasis (Mostly) of Cleanliness & Comfort:
My room? Absolutely stunning. Air conditioning that actually worked (hallelujah!), a ridiculously comfortable Extra long bed, and a Seating area perfect for contemplating the meaning of life (or, you know, ordering room service). The Blackout curtains were a godsend for sleeping in, and the Daily housekeeping kept things pristine. I'm talking serious cleanliness, which is a HUGE relief these days. They’ve got their Rooms sanitized between stays, and offer a Room sanitization opt-out available (something you don't see everywhere!). They clearly take Cleanliness and safety seriously, with Hand sanitizer everywhere and staff trained in safety protocol. Oh, and they have Anti-viral cleaning products. That’s the kind of detail that, as a paranoid germophobe, honestly, makes me feel better! Thank you, Aria.
But here's a little secret: I did notice a small smudge on the mirror (not a deal-breaker, but you know, details matter!). And the Interconnecting room(s) available option – well, I'm assuming that was available. I wasn’t connected to anyone! My room also included things like Free bottled water, Coffee/tea maker, Toiletries, Bathrobes, Slippers, Hair dryer and an In-room safe box. The essentials. They really thought of everything!
Internet: The Wi-Fi Wanderer (Again!)
Okay, let’s talk about the bane of my existence: hotel Wi-Fi. Aria boasts Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, and…it was mostly reliable. The Internet access – wireless was generally good, but there were moments when it felt like dial-up, especially during peak hours. A couple of times I actually used the Internet access – LAN because my frustration grew. It worked! The Internet itself was generally OK -- but the point is, it wasn't perfect. And hey, no one's perfect, right?
Food, Glorious Food! (And Maybe Skip the Salads):
Alright, let's get to the good stuff. The Dining, drinking, and snacking at Aria is…fantastic, with some understandable quirks. Breakfast [buffet]? Epic. Seriously, a glorious spread of everything from Asian breakfast to Western breakfast, with a dazzling array of pastries and fresh fruits. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was constantly refilled. I can't emphasize enough how important this is; caffeine keeps me going!
Their main restaurant serves both Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant and Western cuisine in restaurant. My only (minor) complaint? The salad bar. Not the freshest, or most exciting. Stick to the cooked stuff, trust me. Otherwise, the different Restaurants offered a great range of options. They also offer Room service [24-hour]! It's a dangerous thing to have that in your apartment, but a useful one on a trip.
I spent a LOT of time at the Poolside bar. They make a mean mojito, and the Pool with view is genuinely stunning, especially at sunset. They have a Snack bar and a Coffee shop for those mid-afternoon cravings, and a Happy hour that’s definitely worth planning your day around.
Wellness & Relaxation: My Personal Spa Escape (With a Steam Room That Nearly Killed Me!)
Okay, so I am a chronic over-thinker. I need a little help to relax! The Aria's spa? Oh. My. Word. The Spa itself is worth the price of admission. They have a full menu of treatments, from a blissful Massage to a luxurious Body scrub and Body wrap. The Gym/fitness center looked decent, but I'm not one for torture, so I stuck to the spa.
Here’s a confession: I nearly passed out in the Steamroom. It was intense! Maybe I stayed in there a little too long. But the Sauna? Wonderful! I highly recommend a visit, just… take it easy! They also offer a Foot bath, which I’m told is a great way to relax.
Amenities & Services: A Mixed Bag of Practicality & Polish
Aria offers a wide range of Services and conveniences, from the practical to the pampering. The Concierge was an absolute lifesaver, helping me navigate Kolkata's chaotic beauty. They also have Car park [free of charge] which is a huge deal. They have Dry cleaning, Laundry service and Ironing service which is really useful. And the Front desk [24-hour] is essential for dealing with any late-night emergencies (or epic cravings for room service). The Daily housekeeping was a treat.
They also offer, which really appeals to the business traveller, is Business facilities. These facilities are inclusive of things like a Meeting/banquet facilities and Meeting stationery and Audio-visual equipment for special events.
Here’s the thing: they do have a Convenience store, but it's not exactly stocked with the essentials you really want.
For the Kids: Babysitting, Perhaps?
I didn’t need it, but I noticed they offer a Babysitting service which might be useful for families. They also have Family/child friendly, and Kids facilities, so families should be well-catered to.
Safety & Security: Feeling Safe & Sound!
I felt incredibly safe at Aria. With CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Security [24-hour], Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, and a Safety/security feature it's clear they prioritize guest safety.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy!
They offer Airport transfer, which is a huge time-saver. They also offer Taxi service and Valet parking, which is a definite bonus.
The Quirks, The Imperfections, The Charm:
Okay, here's where Aria gets really interesting. Kolkata is a city of contrasts, and Aria reflects that. There were moments of absolute perfection – a perfectly brewed coffee, a flawlessly delivered massage. And then there were the moments of… well, let's call them "Bengali charm." Staff members sometimes take a little longer getting to you, or the internet might be slightly quirky. But honestly, that's part of the appeal. It’s not a cold, sterile hotel experience; it's a place with personality.
My Verdict: Book It! (But Be Prepared for a Little Adventure)
Okay, so here's the bottom line. The Aria Hotel is a fantastic choice. It's luxurious, comfortable, and with some of the best amenities. It caters for several guests including those with certain disabilities. It's clean, safe, and the food is mostly divine. The staff are (mostly) helpful and friendly. It's a great place to relax, to explore, and to experience the magic of Kolkata.
Here is my offer – and you'll want it!
Book your stay at Aria Hotel now, and get:
- 15% off your stay (use code ARIA15)! PLUS
- A complimentary upgrade to a room with a view!
- A free welcome drink at the Poolside Bar (because, mojitos!)
- Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)
- **A
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this itinerary for the Hotel Aria in Kolkata is gonna be less "polished travel brochure" and more "drunken uncle at a family wedding, but with better grammar (hopefully)." Prepare for emotional rollercoasters, questionable decisions, and the occasional existential crisis. Let's do this.
Hotel Aria Kolkata: My Existential Kolkata Adventure (Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Curry)
Day 1: Arrival and the Glorious, Chaotic Embrace of Kolkata
- 8:00 AM (ish): Land at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. Jet lag is a shadowy beast, whispering sweet nothings of naptime directly into my ear. Resist. NEED. COFFEE. Immediately. And a prayer. Because Indian traffic is… well, it's an experience.
- Anecdote: The baggage claim was a comedy of errors. My suitcase arrived looking like it'd been through a WWE smackdown. Half the zipper's teeth were missing. "Welcome to Kolkata," a cheerfully stoic porter declared, "Your bag has been initiated."
- 9:30 AM: Hotel Aria! Finally, the promised respite. The lobby is… busy. A swirl of saris, hushed conversations in Bengali, and the faint, comforting smell of incense. Check-in takes a while. Apparently, I filled out the wrong "type of breakfast" on my initial inquiry. My bad, I blame the airport coffee.
- Quirky Observation: The bellhop has the most amazing handlebar mustache. It's practically a work of art. I'm tempted to ask for a selfie, but fear he might think me a weird Westerner. Which, let's be honest, I probably am.
- 11:00 AM: Room secured. It's… smaller than I expected. But clean! And AC. Thank the heavens for AC. I collapse on the bed, trying to remember if I actually brushed my teeth this morning. Probably not.
- Emotional Reaction: Relief washing over me. The city's a beast, no doubt, but I made it. I'm here.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at the hotel restaurant – The Spice Route. Okay, okay. I'm here. This is where I start my journey, and as a foodie enthusiast I could not leave this place with out enjoying a meal. First course, Fish in Tandoori style, I ate so fast I don't even know what really hit me.
- 2:00 PM (ish): A brisk walk around the surrounding area. Kolkata is a riot of color, sound, and smells. The street food vendors are calling my name. I see the Howrah Bridge in the distance. I'll get there. Next time, maybe.
- Rambling:* The way the city breathes, it's a tangible sense of the present moment. This is going to the the core of my time here.
- 4:00 PM: Back at the hotel. Exhausted. Shower. Stare blankly at the ceiling. Contemplate ordering room service.
- Opinionated Language: Decided to go with room service and a cold Kingfisher beer. Because I am not a saint. After all, I am only human. Life can be hard on days.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel restaurant. The food is… good. But I order the wrong level of spiciness. My mouth is on fire. Tears stream down my face.
- Stronger Emotional Reaction: This is a test. The spice is a test. I vow to conquer the chili, or die trying.
- 9:00 PM: Collapse into bed, utterly pulverized. Kolkata… you are something else.
Day 2: Delving Deeper and the Allure of the Saree
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast buffet! I feel obligated to try everything. It might be a mistake, but I'm committed. Trying the local breakfast - Luchi and Aloor Dum.
- Imperfection: My stomach is already protesting on the Luchi and Aloor Dum.
- 9:30 AM: The Victoria Memorial. An unexpectedly moving experience. The sheer grandeur, the history… it's almost overwhelming. I walk around, humbled.
- Anecdote: Saw a young couple taking wedding photos. The bride was radiant. It suddenly hit me that I have no one in my life, what even is love?
- 11:30 AM: Shopping! I venture into a local market. Overwhelmed by the sheer volume of things. I am looking for a Saree.
- Emotional Reaction: The colors, the textures… I'm intoxicated, lost. I stumble upon a shop. The woman in the front is a seasoned business woman, with an attitude of pure authority. I can't escape here.
- Quirky Observation: They want me to try it on.. in the store. This is it.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at a tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant. The food is incredible, the atmosphere even better. This is Kolkata.
- Messier Structure: I had not just one meal, but I had two, maybe three plates of food. I did eat the chicken curry. And the rice. The dessert was a sweet delight.
- 3:30 PM: The Indian Museum. My brain is full. I feel like I've absorbed a thousand years of history in a few hours.
- Rambling: I love the way the city keeps bringing me into awe.
- 6:00 PM: Back at the hotel. Dinner at the hotel.
- 9:00 PM: Bed.
Day 3: The Curry Conundrum and Farewell (For Now)
- 8:00 AM: I somehow made it through another breakfast buffet adventure. Still alive.
- 10:00 AM: Second last excursion. I am to visit to the Mother House.
- 1:00 PM: Last lunch in India. This time I ordered the same thing as before, but with a different level of spice.
- 3:00 PM: Depart from the Hotel to the Airport.
- 5:00 PM: Goodbye, Kolkata. You beautiful, chaotic mess. I'll be back.
This, my friends, is a taste of the adventure. It's a messy, imperfect, and hopefully captivating snapshot of a journey. Kolkata will get under your skin, it will challenge you, it will probably give you the runs at least once. But it will also leave you with memories, flavors, and emotions you won't soon forget. Now go forth, and embrace the chaos! And for the love of all that is holy, pack some Pepto Bismol. You'll thank me later.
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Aria Hotel, Kolkata: Ask Me Anything (Seriously, Anything!)
Okay, spill the tea! Is Aria Hotel *really* as luxurious as they say?
Alright, alright, settle down, gossip queens and kings! Let's be honest, "luxury" is subjective, right? Like, what's luxurious for a guy who's lived in a glorified mud hut his whole life is probably different than what I consider luxurious after, well, *ahem*, a few years of…research. But, Aria? Yeah, it leans towards pretty darn luxurious. Think plush carpets, ridiculously fluffy towels (seriously, I could have slept IN one), and chandeliers that probably cost more than my car.
The *smell*, though. Seriously, the first thing that hits you when you walk in the lobby is this intoxicating perfume. Like, I'm not normally a smell person, but I wanted to bottle that stuff and spray it everywhere! My first reaction? "Wow. Just... wow." Followed by an immediate check of my bank balance to see if I could afford another week. (Spoiler: I couldn't.) So, yeah. Luxurious? Absolutely. Did I *feel* like I belonged? That's a different story...more on that later.
Let's talk rooms. What should I expect in terms of size and amenities?
Okay, rooms. Prepare to be spoiled. I got a "deluxe" room, which felt more like a junior suite, to be frank. Spacious is an understatement! I could have held a small dance party in there. I actually considered it, just for the sheer absurdity of it. Didn't, though, because...well, shame.
They've got all the usual suspects: a massive bed (seriously, could have slept a family of raccoons on it), a desk (which I used for...nothing, let's be real), a seriously high-def TV (which I definitely binged on), and a minibar stocked with things that made my wallet weep. The bathroom? Marble. Pure, glorious, gleaming marble. The shower was HUGE. I mean, you could probably fit a small elephant in there (metaphorically, of course. Don't get any ideas). And the amenities? Oh, the amenities. Designer toiletries. The kind you actually want to steal. And trust me, I was tempted. I mean, LOOK, a girl's gotta have some souvenirs, right?
The food! Tell me *everything* about the food. Was it worth the price tag?
The food. *Deep breath*. Okay. So, here's the thing: The Aria’s restaurant, "The Golden Spoon" (or whatever ridiculously fancy name they gave it), is a TREAT. A serious treat. Is it expensive? Yes. Is it worth it? Honestly, it depends. If you're on a strict budget, probably not. If you're celebrating something, or just want to feel like royalty for a night, then YES. A thousand times, YES.
The breakfast buffet...oh, the breakfast buffet. It was a masterpiece of culinary excess. Freshly squeezed juices, a ridiculous array of pastries, an egg station manned by a guy who could make an omelet in his sleep…I think I gained five pounds just looking at it. And the *idlis*! They were fluffy clouds of deliciousness. The *sambhar*? Spicy, tangy, perfect. I went back for seconds...and thirds...maybe fourths. I lost count. Don't judge me. Look, I was on vacation! Also, while I was at it, the dinner was equally amazing, try the butter chicken, you won't regret it.
Okay, let's get REAL. What was the *worst* part? Come on, there has to be something!
Alright, alright, you want the dirt? Fine. Nothing's perfect, even at Aria. The absolute WORST part? (And it's not *that* bad, mind you): The faint feeling of being slightly…out of place. Like, I'm a jeans-and-t-shirt kinda gal. And while I *did* bring a nice dress, I definitely felt a bit underdressed compared to some of the clientele. There were definitely people there wearing things that probably cost more than my rent. I had a brief moment of 'imposter syndrome,' where I was convinced they were going to figure out I was a fraud and kick me out. (They didn't, thankfully – the staff were incredibly polite, even to a somewhat frazzled-looking woman in a slightly wrinkled sundress.)
Oh! and a minor issue: The wifi. The wifi was a little... temperamental. Sometimes it worked like a dream, other times I was stuck peering sadly out the window at the world, pining for cat videos. Which, honestly, is a true tragedy.
How was the pool and spa? Worth the extra cost?
The pool? Gorgeous. Lush greenery surrounding it, sun loungers that practically hug you, cocktails being delivered *to* you...it's the quintessential hotel pool experience. The spa... Now *that* was where I needed to be. I splurged on a massage (because, you know, research). It was heavenly. Utter, unadulterated, blissful, I-could-cry-from-happiness heavenly. The masseuse had magic hands. The aromatherapy oils, the dimmed lighting, the soft music… I was basically a puddle of relaxed bliss. Worth the cost? Absolutely. My muscles thanked me. My soul thanked me. My bank account… well, it’s still recovering.
After swimming in the pool, I got the best sleep I have ever had.
Anything else I NEED to know before booking? Any insider tips?
Okay, insider tips, people! First: Book in advance. Especially during peak season. You don’t want to miss out on the good stuff. Second: Don't be afraid to ask for upgrades! Sometimes, if they're not fully booked, they'll be happy to bump you up a room. Third: Eat ALL the breakfast. Seriously. Fourth: Be prepared to *enjoy* yourself! Seriously. It's Kolkata, and you're at a gorgeous hotel. Let loose! (Within reason, of course. Don't do anything I wouldn't do. Actually, scratch that, you probably could do a lot *I* wouldn't do...)
And finally, and this is the most important tip of all: Take lots and lots of pictures. You'll want to remember it. Because, trust me, you'll be dreaming about your stay at Aria Hotel long after you've checked out. Seriously, I am still dreaming about it, and that was like, three months ago. Sigh. Book it! You only live once! Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to make myself a cup of tea and look longingly at travel websites...
