Originally Posted by
GUWonder
The check-in agent was misinformed, and it almost seems like a situation of using "alternative facts" to try to boost the reputation of the hotel.
It is relevant in this context to note that the USSS is involved in deciding which properties may or may not be used by a US POTUS visiting Delhi and that the Maurya in Chanakyapuri -- which is a Starwood property -- is what has been cleared by the USSS and others when it comes to the above-mentioned POTUS figures staying in India. LeMeridien Delhi doesn't work for this purpose.
I also know where plenty of other major foreign heads of government/state have stayed in India. Some visiting heads of government/state in Delhi have stayed at LeMeridien, but that doesn't cover the majors like Obama and Clinton. Historical facts matter, right?
The State Dept. doesn't just work with the SS to have properties approved for POTUS, but for any state department officials. Even companies or university representatives are in many cases required to stay at state department approved hotels. Where there are State Dept. travel warnings it is mandatory.