What to expect: Natural light, soft colours, and various works of art create a tasteful ambience at the black-marble lobby, which also features a fountain. The hotel’s proximity to the city centre and to the business, commercial, and shopping districts makes it a good choice for those on a business travel as well as for those on holidays.

Amenity highlights: Professional therapists, trained at the Banyan Tree Academy in Phuket, Thailand, staff the Oberoi’s spa, which offers a variety of treatments and programs ranging from the best in ancient Ayurveda to aromatherapy. The fitness centre is equipped with cardiovascular equipment as well as strength-training options. An open-air pool is illuminated each evening. Wireless Internet access is offered in public areas.

Insider tip: Pragati Maidan, 1 km (0.75 miles) from the hotel, is the venue of the annual Indian International Trade Fair. Thousands of business travelers and visitors come here in November from all over the world. More than the country's foremost exhibition complex, it also is a melting pot of visitors from all walks of life and interests. The complex, with its contemporary design, is surrounded by greenery.