Jodhpur, India – Taj Hotels’ Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur has been awarded the Editor’s Choice – Hotel of The Year 2009 Gallivanter’s Award for Excellence in the 19th annual awards issue, according to a press release received by Elite Traveler.
Editor and publisher Lyn Middlehurst and managing director David Maslin described the palace as having the “wow factor in spades.” The unique Indo-Saracenic architecture and setting, luxurious accommodation, excellent service, culinary offerings and chemical free spa option at Jiva Grande were cited as the key criteria for winning the award.
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur continues to be the “Jewel In The Crown” of the Taj group portfolio. One of the world’s largest private residences, this golden-hued monument opened its gilded doors in 1943. Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur, this golden yellow sandstone monument is a spectacular synthesis of Western technology and several Indian architectural styles.
Taj has renovated the interiors, retaining the original grandeur while injecting 21st century standards of luxury and service. The palace features 64 regal rooms and suites, with the recently renovated Maharani and Maharaja Suites offering private couple spa treatment suites.
The Jiva Grande Spa at Umaid Bhawan Palace offers a cool retreat from the Marwar heat and was voted one of the top ten spas in the Best For Luxury category in the Spa Finder Readers’ Choice Awards 2009.
Guests can stroll through the private museum, dine within fifteen acres of candlelit palace grounds or put their skills to the test on the marbled squash courts.
The 2009 Gallivanter’s Awards for Excellence were announced in the January 2010 issue, which includes an annual reader poll compiled from subscribers in 42 countries. The Editor’s Choice comprises a list of personal hotel favorites, which Lyn and David have visited in the last year.