A middle aged American couple we know would be passing through Delhi twice.

(i) Once they arrive at 9PM, go to the hotel, spend a good part of the next day
in Connaught Place, then airport late afternoon for a domestic flight.

(ii) Next time, they arrive during the day, would like 1-2 days in CP again, but have to catch of those dreaded 1AM flights.

They are experienced travelers and don't expect luxury, but would like an "age-appropriate" (that's how they put it) clean, comfortable, quiet, safe hotel.

Which hotel do you know that will provide the best value? CP location would be good, but something a quick auto ride away acceptable.

The reason I mentioned 1AM flight is that would want to shower at 7-8 PM and leave for the airport by 8-9 PM. So, if possible, they would not like to pay for a night they don't sleep. Would any hotel allow shower facilities, even in the gym area, even at some charge?

Thanks for any info or ideas.

Most hotels would let them shower in the gym or pool shower .. they are quite accomodating. Go get the Intercontinental - and have them booked into the new wing - that's got wood paneling, angular glass and steel furniture etc .. very zen. The older rooms - heavy granite frame around the door, etc etc .. looks like old stalinist hotels in moscow.

Horribly expensive though .. so if they have a price range, post it.

note: Dont forget the 25% tax in delhi hotels

I think they are looking for good value and want to avoid five stars. In the Us they would likely go to Embassy Suites, Best Western, some B&B etc, rather than Marriott or Sheraton, if that gives an idea.

I guess I'd avoid the junky layer and look for something safe clean and comfortable (A/C must in India).

You can try Hotel Palace Heights. Stayed there and it was fine for a very short stay:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Rev..._of_Delhi.html

I see it's now #9 of 355 hotels in Delhi (this would be due to the value for money). The hotel is right on Connaught Place. The rooms are small and 'modern' furnished. But no facilities like pool etc.

I don't think they would allow late checkout but prices are very reasonable.

Regards

lme ff

the radisson offers a half day rate of 6000 inr (which would be helpful on their second trip)....i believe its called the business traveleres day rate or something similar....have not seen it advertised online but have seen it promoted on site at the hotel, they should call the hotel and ask for it.

hotel is clean, nice and VERY close to both airports (within 15 minutes drive)

www.thikanadelhi.com is a highly recommended B&B.