Royal Treatment at the Elegant Fairmont Jaipur

If you wish to experience the opulence and grandeur of a Rajasthani palace – where exceptional customer service is the norm – look no further than the Fairmont Jaipur.

I recently decided to go on a solo travel adventure; but, wasn’t sure where I should go. My husband was supportive and suggested that I look online to see if there was a Fairmont Hotel in an interesting place. (We have had several wonderful experiences at the Fairmont Mayakoba, in Mexico, and had every reason to believe that our experience at another Fairmont would be equally fabulous.) I have always wanted to visit India, so the Fairmont Jaipur caught my eye. I was excited about the opportunity to go to such an exotic and amazing place (Rajasthan, in the Northeast of India, has a fascinating history and is home to grand forts and palaces); however, I was still a little nervous about traveling alone to India.

There was absolutely no reason to worry. When I arrived at the Fairmont Jaipur, I was given a royal welcome: live musicians, flower petals, a warm greeting and a glass of cool mint tea. From the moment I entered the property, I was made to feel welcome and cared for. Mr. Naveen, Front Office Manager, asked me to let him know if I needed anything. All the staff, from the concierge to the front desk to housekeeping, were expecting me and let me know that, while I was traveling by myself, I did not have to feel alone. For the 8 days and 7 nights I was there, I never felt crowded, but always felt surrounded by caring friends. Mr. Aman Shangari, Chief Concierge, corresponded with me before I arrived and made sure every detail of my stay was perfect while I was there. Ms. Joy Nongthombam, Desk Manager, introduced me to the Gold Lounge and generally made me feel welcome every day. Ms. Shivangi, Guest Experience Manager and Ms. Nahid, along with many others at the front desk, were always smiling and helpful. Read on for mention of other wonderful staff members…

The Fairmont Jaipur resembles, in every way and by design, a Rajasthani palace. There are elements of both Hindu and Mughal architecture everywhere you look: graceful arched doorways; lattice work detail in doors and shutters; richly colored, hand-painted artwork on every wall; dramatic, warm lighting; soothing pools and water features; beautifully decorated and furnished restaurants and lounges. No detail has been overlooked. The view from any location (inside or outside of the hotel) is spectacular and worthy of framing. I, myself, enjoyed wandering through the public spaces and soaking in all the splendid detail. It is no wonder that this hotel is a popular venue for weddings and other large events! During my visits to the public rooms and restaurants, I enjoyed visiting with the delightful staff. Mr. Iritra is studying to become a sommelier and was very knowledgeable about both local and imported wines. Mr. Mohit, Mr. Uttam and Mr. Paras, hotel operation trainees, were always friendly and helpful. Really… all the hotel staff managed to be both warm/personable and very professional at the same time.

My room reflected the level of sophistication and luxury of the rest of the hotel: a royal king size, four-poster bed and an amazing marble bathroom with an oversized oval tub and a domed ceiling. Every day, there was a special treat in my room: a drawn bath with flower petals, a work of art with towel elephants, or the Taj Mahal made of palm leaves – along with a kind and friendly note from the housekeeping staff. Mr. Upender and Mr.Kailash, two friendly and customer-focused members of the housekeeping staff, orchestrated these welcome touches in my room. I had a relaxing treatment by Anna in their intimate spa (managed by the engaging Mr. Vinod Kumar) and fell in love with the Persian Biryani in the stunningly beautiful Zarin restaurant (where I had the pleasure of meeting Master Chef Mr. Mohammad Qureshi).

And, lest you think I did not leave the grounds of the hotel, let me recommend some of the truly awe-inspiring sights and activities in and around Jaipur: The Amber Fort, the Jaigarh Fort, the Jal Mahal, the HawaMahal, the City Palace, the Rambaugh Golf Club and the Jantar Mantar. Wow! Magnificent architecture, both in scale and beauty. I was transported around Jaipur (and beyond) by Mr. Vijay and Mr. Rajendra, who were very knowledgeable about local history and landmarks. I also took a day trip to Ranthambhore National Park and was fortunate enough to see not one, but two wild tigers in the reserve.

On my next trip to India, you can be sure I will return to the Fairmont Jaipur with my husband, as I want very much to share this Indian Jewel with him.