We're hugely grateful for all of the inputs so far - we're currently working up a revised itinerary to the one in post 1, based on the inputs we've received here. We've reversed the itinerary a bit - finishing the tour in Agra before a night stop in Delhi then returning home.
Sadly, the opportunity to extend the trip is limited by work commitments on both our parts. But the more planning we do, the more likely a return trip in 2011 is looking!
Originally Posted by
vuittonsofstyle
[B]I agree that it is much better taking the Shatabdhi Express train to Agra - the drive is very taxing. I also agree that the Oberoi Amarvilas is by far the best option.
^ - definitely on the list now.
Originally Posted by
vuittonsofstyle
Trident Gurgaon (operated by Oberoi) is a much better option than the Kempinski.
Seems to be sold out on our dates. I presume Greaves included Kempinski for convenience to the airport. We're flying back on the 08:25 day flight to London with BA in First. Realistically, how early do we need to be at the airport? 3 hours? If so, I can see why proximity to DEL might be useful!
Originally Posted by
vuittonsofstyle
This itinerary is much too busy. I would cut out a couple of destinations and spend more time really taking in one or two places. Amanbagh, definitely - a splendid choice. Umaid Bhawan Palace, too - utterly unique.
I would also fly rather than drive - these drives of 6 hours or more are ridiculous and very tiring. You can fly instead (Jet Airways or Kingfisher - both excellent, but especially Jet).
Chosing what to cut is the problem! Amanbagh really ticks all the boxes for us - but getting there from Agra (or vice versa) seems to take an age - and there don't seem to be scheduled flights between AGR and JAI. I've put out a couple of requests for quotes for helicopter/plane charter (the budget may stretch if the cost isn't outrageous).
Originally Posted by
DavidO
Peirce and Leslie is a Virtuoso onsite in India. They are very good at making travel in India as luxurious as possible, given the difficulties with logistics.
Thanks - duly noted, will add them to the (short) list of people I'm looking at.
Originally Posted by
vuittonsofstyle
It is always difficult to compare the service of an Aman with the service of anywhere else, as it is so unique.For me, the best Aman service in India is at Amanbagh. Aman-i-Khas is OK, but it depends who is running it at the time. There is some good long-stay staff there, so well trained and sharp these days.
Out of interest, how would you rate the Aman Delhi?
Seconded! ^
Originally Posted by
LHR/MEL/Europe FF
However - I have also stayed at the Devi Garh (2007 and 2008) - and for sheer size and grandeur (aside from the Umaid Bhawan Palace) it can't be beat! If you possibly can - why not consider staying a night there?
While the Lake Palace is everything (and sometimes more) than you read - three days can be a long time there. While it's a pain to have to pack and move, it is a long journey out to the Devi Garh, and if you're there you might as well stay.
Devi Garh has made its way into our planning process - definitely our kind of hotel. Of course that means something else has to give....