Arrival/Check-in: I arrived with a group of travelers late on a very rainy Mumbai evening. After passing security (something you must do whenever entering the hotel), we began the check-in process. Even at that late hour, the hotel’s two restaurants were bustling and there were a fair number of people milling around the lobby and entrance. Upon entering the hotel, I was immediately struck by its décor. High granite walls accentuated the stark modernity of the interior. Although I was not impressed by the friendliness of the staff, once check-in was settled we were all escorted to our rooms where the bellmen were waiting with our luggage. (17/20)

Guest Quarters: Much like the lobby, the rooms had a modern feel to them. Unfortunately, my room had two twin beds — a bit of a disappointment because after a 15-hour flight, I just wanted to spread out and sleep. While the bed was not uncomfortable, I did not have an exceptional night’s rest. The room itself was spacious, with an ample amount of space to work (Internet service was available for a daily fee). The bathroom was also large with abundant counter space. The toilet was in its own separate stall in the bathroom, while the shower was out in the open. However, the dark tiles of the bathroom gave it a dark, cold feeling. (12/15)

Services/Amenities: The hotel boasts two full-service restaurants within the lobby area offering an array of food choices, from traditional Indian for breakfast, lunch and dinner to Chinese and Italian. I sampled the Indian breakfast and dinner buffet and I was impressed by the extensive selection of foods available at both. A small selection of non-Indian food was available as well. The hotel offers full spa and fitness center services, as well as a variety of stores. I would recommend in-room Internet over the hotel business center, which was expensive and closed early, leaving one virtually incommunicado during U.S. business hours because of the time difference. (43/45)

The Experience:The Grand Hyatt Mumbai provides all one needs for a comfortable night’s rest. While it was not a place that invited lounging around during the day and it was not ideally equipped for working, it was the perfect place to sleep after busy days out in the Indian city. (17/20)

Total Score: (89/100)

GRAND HYATT MUMBAI,

Off Western Express Highway
Santacruz (East) Bombay 400 055
tel 91 22 6676 1234
http://www.mumbai.grand.hyatt.com