Author Archive for Madeleine Hann
The “Kama Sutra Temples” of Khajuraho, India
In a country with no less than seven recognized religions, there are literally thousands of temples to explore whilst visiting India. Arguably the most spectacular is the magnificent group of Hindu temples in Khajuraho, which are famed for their Kama Sutra decorations. Located in the central state of Madhya Pradesh, these temples are now a
The world's smallest luxury hotel
After hearing that a new luxury hotel had opened on the rural outskirts of Jaipur, I was already very much intrigued. However, after learning that the resort was built in Anopura; a tiny, untouched, rural Indian village which my husband hails from, I simply had to experience it for myself. Anopura is quite possibly the
Rajasthan: a glimpse inside the glamorous Oberoi Rajvilas
The Oberoi Rajvilas makes for the perfect base in which to explore the exotic Indian city of Jaipur, and is arguably one of the finest resorts in Rajasthan. There are not many hotels in the world where check-in involves an elaborately painted elephant and fragrant shower of rose petals, but the Oberoi Rajvilas does not
Top 5 things to do in Jaipur
By Madeleine Hann on Feb 14, 2014 in Accommodation, Asia, Attractions, Going Out, Hotels, India, Regions
The bustling city of Jaipur lies on the edge of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, and is peppered with crumbling forts, royal palaces and ancient temples. It’s affectionately known as the “Pink City”, as its most prominent buildings are washed in a salmon pink colour. Jaipur is a fascinating maze of narrow alleyways, opulent palaces and grand 
Top 10 things to do in Delhi
Many journeys to India will begin and end in Delhi, India’s bustling capital city. Despite featuring as one of the ‘10 most hated cities‘ earlier this week, Delhi has a lot to offer, and is a real melting pot of rich cultures and heritage. When arriving in Delhi, the sounds, colours and smells will immerse you;
Devi Garh by lebua: an enchanting palace hotel in Rajasthan
By Madeleine Hann on Dec 13, 2013 in Accommodation, Asia, Celebrities, Hotels, India, Regions, Travel Miscellany
Whilst exploring Rajasthan, a stay in one of the regions magnificent palace hotels is a highlight of any India trip and a unique way to experience the country’s rich culture and heritage. Arguably one of Rajasthan’s most enchanting palace hotels is Devi Garh by lebua, perched on a hill in the outskirts of Udaipur. Nestled 
Top 3 luxury glamping experiences in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve
By Madeleine Hann on Nov 11, 2013 in Accommodation, Adventure Travel, Asia, India, Regions, Resorts, Speciality Travel
Glamorous camping – aka “glamping” – in Rajasthan offers a truly luxurious experience. A far cry from “roughing it” in a flimsy tent in Cornwall, these glamorous camps are unashamedly opulent and a fantastic alternative to the region’s palace resorts. Those seeking nature and wildlife on their India expedition will find Ranthambhore to be the 
A peek inside the luxurious Leela Palace New Delhi
By Madeleine Hann on Oct 12, 2013 in Accommodation, Asia, Bars, Going Out, Hotels, India, Regions, Spas & Pampering, Speciality Travel
The Leela Palace New Delhi is located in the heart of Delhi’s prestigious Diplomatic Enclave, and is arguably the most luxurious hotel in town. The palace offers truly shameless opulence on a grand scale, with 260 spacious rooms and suites equipped with ultramodern technology. The palace is a fusion of European architecture and Lutyen’s Delhi, with 
Top 3 places to discover classic Kerala
Surrounded by the vast Indian Ocean and the spice growing Cardamom Hills, Kerala is a beautiful and flourishing paradise. The state is well known for its serene backwaters, tempting local cuisine and leisurely pace. The backwaters are situated between the hills and the coast, a network of waterways providing a communication route for villagers, along
Awaken your spiritual side in Varanasi, India
By Madeleine Hann on Aug 30, 2013 in Accommodation, Asia, Attractions, Going Out, Hotels, India, Regions
The holy city of Varanasi is set on the banks of the sacred river Ganges. Mark Twain once wrote, “Varanasi is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Varanasi, once known as Benares, is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. It’s 
2013's best hotel brand in the world
Oberoi Hotels & Resorts have been voted this year as the World’s Best Hotel Brand by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. The award is a result of a reader’s survey, led by the publication. Travel + Leisure’s ‘World’s Best Awards’ are amongst the most prestigious in the international travel industry, as it is the readers
Top 4 luxury hotel views in Rajasthan, India
Rajasthan, often referred to as India’s most colourful state, is home to some of Asia’s most luxurious rooms and suites. Rajasthan’s luxury hotels are typically inspired by the regions rich royal heritage, evoking an atmosphere of kings, princesses and fairy-tales. Wonder at the mesmerizing Taj Mahal in Agra, stare into the shimmering waters of Lake
Soak up the luxuries of India’s Pink City
By Madeleine Hann on Jul 22, 2013 in Accommodation, Asia, Attractions, Food and Drink, Going Out, Hotels, India, Regions, Resorts, Travel Miscellany
Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan, a northern state of India. It is affectionately known as the “Pink City”, as the walls of Jaipur’s historic City Palace are washed in a vibrant salmon hue. The pink colour was used to create an impression of red sandstone Mughal buildings, and was repainted in 1876 during 
Explore India's Golden Triangle in style
When planning a luxury tour of India, it is difficult to know where to start. India offers so much, from the grand Taj Mahal, to the sandy beaches of Goa, to the backwaters of Kerala. It is of course impossible to explore all of India’s beauty in just one trip, and to really soak up
Experience India’s Thar Desert in complete luxury
By Madeleine Hann on May 10, 2013 in Accommodation, Asia, Attractions, Going Out, Hotels, India, Regions, Resorts
The medieval city of Jaisalmer lies in the heart of India’s Thar Desert, and is affectionately referred to as Rajasthan’s “Golden City”. Jaisalmer is a golden oasis in the centre of the Thar, with a backdrop of shimmering dunes that roll away as far as the eye can see. The area is home to a 
