chic accomodation on the cheap

add spices to hospitality and you get a smart,chic,elegant and modern,no-frills,convenient and comfortable hotel room for rs 999 plus taxes.having heard about this new budget hotel of the 'tatas', i decided to experience staying in 'ginger' during my last trip to bangalooru. i had a very satisfying stay for two nights.

located at whitefield in the 'IT' corridor and close to the information technology park, it is an ideal place to stay for those who have their work around this area. just about twenty minutes' drive from the airport and you are in a hip hotel using the latest technology to give you a bang for your bucks. you get a sizeable room with all modern amenities-room airconditioner,mini-refrigerator,worktable and a comfortable bed. an electric kettle for making your own tea(tetley,of course) and flatscreen tv with wifi connection .linen is maintained clean and changed every day.round the clock hot and cold water in the bathroom.

the multicuisine restaurant called the"square meal" serves only breakfast,lunch and dinner.the service is"diy" from the table. but then there are a few boys available to serve you if required.it costs you rs 75 for breakfast and rs 165 for lunch/dinner. i happened to be there on 'valentine's day'. they had set up a lovely shamiana and a delectable buffet dinner with a wide spread. there is also a 'dial-a-meal' service,whereby you can order special meals by phone from selected restaurants who will then deliver it to the recception.so you enjoy best of both worlds. there is a kiosk for internet surfing, an atm machine,a conference room and even a small gym. for rs 999 plus taxes that was one helluva good deal. at a lower price point you get the features of a more upscale hotel.

the brand 'ginger' was created by landor associates who are headquartered in san fransisco.'ginger' is supposed to convey contemporariness,freshness and zest.and a hip urban attitude.the uniquely organic lettering is a visual treat.

this new concept has been hailed as an innovative thrust by indian hotels of the tata stable.one that has given birth to a low-cost,high quality business model.entirely different in its way of hospitality. services like concierge,laundry pick-up and room service are all eliminated. it is all "IT". auto check-in kiosks,internet reservation,touch screen feedback panels,wifi,etc. all giving you delight and value for money. there is also a doctor on call. with frequent load shedding in bangalooru,you would wonder whether you may have to suffer the trauma of darkness and summer heat. no,there is a cent percent power backup. the hotel has about 100 rooms and enjoys a high occupancy rate.

so next time you are in bangalooru, cut your accomodation costs and save money. this is an alternative way of hospitality from the 'tatas' which can be appreciated only when you stay in 'ginger'. it is not only hot and a garam masala. it is also coooooooool.