This red fox is a smart fellow, sitting in the shade of big sister Lemon Tree Premier next door. Why? Because for one thing, the 207 rooms retain the same footprint as the base category at the contiguous sister property, linked by corridors in the middle. Which means that large family groups and convention organisers can put up their members at either, perhaps depending on closeness or rank without seeming to snub any sniffy noses. For another, the ease of accessing its upscale neighbour’s pool and F&B venues from within, without even stepping off the porch, helps keep guests happily cosseted within the group’s offerings. And hunkering down right here means being able to share the superb security of big sister without outlay beyond the means of an economy brand.
It’s as much a smart choice for the traveller who has streamlined his baggage and his expectations. The young-at-heart in particular would be cheered up by the air of quiet efficiency and accessibility, the handy vending machine of snacks, drinks and toiletries with which to stock your own mini-bar and bathroom kit, and the witty foxy art on the walls. Not to mention the fitness centre, a rare goose in budget chains, and the cyber kiosk and free wi-fi. Staff in their simple and hard-to-miss red shirts are warm and friendly, able to offer help in the vernacular—or even without words, since the Lemon Tree group makes a serious statement of its support for the differently-abled, with some 13% of its staff owning the label proudly and being deployed in direct guest interaction, from front office to restaurant waitstaff, not just back-office operations. Which translates in turn to sensitivity towards the challenges guests may face, including the very young or advanced of years. And that inspires confidence, doesn’t it?
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But foxes are reputed to be confident as well as crafty. Witness the unapologetic use of simple desi stone and tiles in your bathroom, with no unnecessary ‘designer’ flourishes and a helpful note on where to obtain extra amenities instead of wastefully loading your counter with what-ifs. Witness as well the emphasis on ghar ka khana as the basis of buffets and in-room dining, complemented by international crowd pleasers but still overwhelmingly Indian. Hyper-local even, making for comfort food for the Indian far from home—maachher jhol, jakhiya aloo, khatti dal, Hyderabadi biryani, even chaat and chai like we like it, and scads of desi hot dishes and cool drinks for breakfast! This is one hotel that makes a virtue of being home-ly.
OVERVIEW: Casual, compact, cheerful, just a little cheeky; paisa vasool=access to two great properties for the price of one, while paying only the smaller tab; Indian sensibility and proud of it; supports the differently-abled front and centre TARIFF: From Rs 2,449 per night CONTACT +91-11-45232323, www.lemontreehotels.com