Escape to Paradise: Ahlan International Hotel, Mumbai's Hidden Gem
Okay, Buckle Up Buttercups: My Slightly-Too-Honest Review of Ahlan International Hotel, Mumbai (aka "Escape to Paradise")
Alright, so I just stumbled out of the Ahlan International Hotel in Mumbai, battered and blissed-out. They call it "Escape to Paradise," and honestly? They’re not entirely lying. But, as a seasoned traveler (read: professional complainer), I’m here to give you the real deal, warts and all. This isn’t some sanitized brochure. This is me, spilling the chai.
First Impressions: The Good, The Slightly-Less-Good, and the Surprisingly-Good!
Accessibility: They claim to be accessible. I didn’t test it with a wheelchair, but the elevators seemed decent, and the common areas were spacious enough. I'd suggest reaching out and confirming if accessibility is a top priority.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Obsessive-Compulsive's Dream (Mostly) Okay, I'm a bit of a germaphobe. Let's start there. And Ahlan? They. Get. It. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection? Check. Staff looking like they're about to perform surgery? Check. I even saw them disinfecting the elevator buttons! The room sanitization opt-out is a nice touch (if you dare!). They're definitely leaning into the whole hygiene thing, which, honestly, is reassuring in these times. The first aid kit, doctor/nurse on call and hand sanitizer were readily available. The only downside? Maybe a little overkill? I could smell the cleanliness, which might be too much for some.
The Rooms: Not Perfect, But Perfectly Okay
Okay, let's cut to the chase: I'll use this as an excuse to talk about the room. I opted for a king-sized bed, and it was HUGE. Honestly, it could have comfortably fit a small family. But, the blackout curtains were a godsend after all that sightseeing. The air conditioning? Pure, icy bliss. The shower? Powerful. The toiletries? Surprisingly good. (Okay, I'm being honest, the cheap hotels usually supply soap that doesn't smell of anything.)
The little things: Yeah, they had everything. Bathrobes? Slippers? Safe box? Check, check, and check. I've stayed places where you could've built a fire with the towels. Not here. They even had one of those annoying scales (always a bad sign for me).
The Wi-Fi? Free! And it actually worked. In all rooms! Bless you, Ahlan. I even got a strong signal.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Coma Incoming!
The Asian Breakfast: My God, the Food! So while I'm no expert on India or its food to be frankly honest. I just know what tastes good. And, let me tell you, the Asian breakfast at Ahlan? It wasn't just good, it was a revelation. Seriously. The buffet was… a lot. I’m talking everything from perfectly flaky croissants to spicy, fragrant curries. I ate so much I now have the shape of a small mountain. I'd go back just for the breakfast, and I'd recommend you do it too, if only for the sheer variety and the chance to try everything. Bonus points for the coffee shop (essential!) and the fact that they had real, honest-to-goodness international cuisine.
The Poolside Bar: The Dream. After a day of dodging rickshaws and bargaining with vendors, there's nothing better than cooling off in the pool with a cocktail in hand. They had a poolside bar, which was honestly necessary. The drinks were good (and strong), views were chef's kiss. The only thing that could’ve made it better? Maybe a tiny, inflatable pool flamingo.
24 Hour Room Service? Yes Please! It was a god-send, especially after a long day of sightseeing. I'm not one for fancy dining, but it was a great way to relax after a long day.
Things to Do (and Chill Out): Reaching Nirvana (Maybe)
The Spa: Lost in a Cloud of Incense. This is where things got really good. I went for a massage (duh), and I’ll be honest: I almost fell asleep. The spa itself was beautiful – dimly lit, with the soothing sounds of running water and the scent of a thousand exotic flowers. They had a sauna, a steamroom, and a foot bath. I’m not one for massages, but this place was everything. I'm still trying to process how good it was.
Swimming Pool with a View: The pool was beautiful (I might have mentioned that). But the view? You need to see it to believe it. It's a view that rivals some of the most stunning views that I've experienced.
Fitness Center: I Tried. I peeked into the fitness center. It was modern, well-equipped…and completely un-used by me. Let's be real, I was there for the food and the spa.
Services and Conveniences: They've Thought of Everything (Almost)
Oh, the Concierge! These guys were LIFESAVERS. They booked taxis, gave me tips, and basically saved me from getting lost (which I probably would have done without them). The Daily housekeeping was a plus.
Currency Exchange, Laundry Service, Luggage Storage: Yeah, they had it all. Pretty much everything you'd expect, and it all worked smoothly. There’s even a convenient store on-site!
Meeting/Banquet Facilities: Seems like a good place to host a conference or a wedding.
The Quirks and Imperfections (Because Nothing's Perfect)
The Elevator… I had a weird moment with the elevator. I'm not going to go into detail, but let's just say, it wasn't ideal. But it didn't ruin my stay.
The Smoking Area: They do have designated smoking areas. Good to know if you’re a smoker.
Bottom Line: Should You Escape to Paradise?
Yes. Absolutely. If you're looking for a comfortable, well-equipped hotel in Mumbai with genuinely good food, a fantastic spa, and impeccable service, Ahlan International is it. It's not perfect, but it's damn close. It’s clean, safe, and offers a genuinely relaxing experience. Would I go back? In a heartbeat.
Let's be honest: If you want a luxurious escape (and let's face it, who doesn't?), then don't hesitate. Book it. You won't regret it.
ESCAPE TO PARADISE: AHLAAN INTERNATIONAL HOTEL – BOOK NOW AND UNLOCK YOUR URBAN OASIS!
Tired of the Mumbai chaos? Craving a sanctuary of calm and rejuvenation? Escape to Paradise at Ahlan International Hotel, Mumbai’s Hidden Gem!
Here's what awaits you:
- Unparalleled Cleanliness & Safety: We prioritize your well-being with rigorous hygiene protocols, including anti-viral cleaning, daily disinfection, and staff trained to perfection.
- Luxurious Rooms: Sink into plush beds, enjoy the refreshing bliss of air conditioning, and revel in the convenience of complimentary Wi-Fi in all rooms! Plus, we’re offering room sanitization opt-out for you to choose.
- Culinary Delights: From the award-winning Asian breakfast buffet to the poolside bar, we've got delicious food in store for you.
- Spa Nirvana: Melt away stress with our world-class spa offering massages, saunas, steam rooms, and more – bliss guaranteed!
- Unmatched Convenience: Enjoy a range of services, including concierge assistance, currency exchange, laundry, and more, all designed to make your stay seamless.
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Escape to Paradise: Luxurious Beach Chalet in Biddinghuizen, Netherlands!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the chaotic, beautiful mess that is my potential Powai adventure at the Hotel Ahlan International in Mumbai, India. This isn't some pristine, perfectly-timed travel brochure – this is me, navigating life (and hopefully, Mumbai) with all my glorious imperfections.
Day 1: Arrival, Jet Lag, and a Questionable Pizza
- Morning (aka, 3 AM in my brain): Arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSIA). "International" sounds so fancy, but the reality is… well, let's just say my carry-on currently resembles a highly organized tornado of snacks and anxiety. Pray to the luggage gods that my suitcase makes it.
- Transportation: Pre-booked Airport transfer (hopefully they actually show up). Imagine, me, bleary-eyed and probably wearing my "I Heart Mumbai" t-shirt (classic tourist move. I'm already embarrassed, and I haven't even left the arrivals hall!) – feeling like an absolute zombie in the back of a car.
- Afternoon: Hotel Ahlan International check-in. Oh, the glory. The staff better be nice because after that flight, i am literally going to get cranky! Hopefully, the room is as advertised and it involves air conditioning, cause otherwise, i'll be a sweaty puddle of disappointment. I'm envisioning a decent-sized room, at least. With, ideally, something resembling a view…maybe even a tiny balcony for dramatic pronouncements.
- Early Evening: THE JETLAG HITS. Hard. I'm going to crash. Big time. Nap time!
- Late Evening: Dinner (hopefully). The goal? Food. Preferably something carb-centric, and easy to digest. The hotel menu has pizza. I'm skeptical. Hotel pizza is rarely a highlight. But, hey, I'm starving. Maybe. I'm too tired to be discerning. This could be a culinary disaster waiting to happen and I am here for it. I really am.
Day 2: Exploring Powai and the Lake that May or May Not Be a Swamp Monster Haven
- Morning: Okay, this is where the plan kicks in. Supposed to be a leisurely breakfast at the hotel (they better have a dosa/idli situation going on!) and then… Powai Lake! I've seen photos, it's supposed to be quite lovely. Apparently, its a major point of interest in the region. I have heard whispers of a monster… just kidding (maybe).
- Mid-morning: Lake exploration. I will be a proper tourist and take a few pictures. I'll probably try to bargain for some trinkets from a street vendor. Maybe a scarf (because, let's be honest, I'm always cold).
- Lunch: Something local. I'm thinking something with a bit of spice (I'm going to pretend I have a high spice tolerance. But, realistically… tears may or may not be involved.) Google search yields options. Gotta trust the reviews. And hope I don't get a stomach bug.
- Afternoon: This is the wild card. Depending on my energy levels (and the general humidity situation) I may or may not hire a cab and go to the Gateway of India and/or the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (the train station – apparently, it's a UNESCO World Heritage site, so culture it is!). If I get ambitious. If.
- Evening: Now this is where things can get messy. Dinner – find a restaurant, preferably one that isn't just focused on hotel food. A bustling restaurant is the goal. I'm considering a night market, too. And I'm not sure what that will involve.
- Late Night: Collapse back into the hotel bed, possibly regretting the questionable pizza from the night before.
Day 3: Shopping, Bollywood Dreams, and the Search for Filter Coffee Nirvana
- Morning: The hunt for gifts. I'm going to become a master negotiator. Possibly visiting a local market. Or a mall. I want something unique, something more than just tourist tat. I may need to drag myself through stores, which means its gonna require a LOT of coffee to keep going.
- Mid-morning: Coffee break time. I will hunt down authentic filter coffee. This is a high-priority quest. I'm starting to think it might be the most important part of the trip.
- Afternoon: Bollywood! Okay, maybe not a real Bollywood film shoot, but I'm going to try to get a sense of the scene. I'll look for a related destination, perhaps a tour. Or at least a poster of a famous movie.
- Late Afternoon: Re-Pack. Time to squeeze one last cup of filter coffee into the itinerary and attempt to fit all my purchases into my suitcase.
- Night: Final dinner, a reflective gaze over my adventure, and perhaps a final prayer before the flight back home.
Random Thoughts and Imperfections:
- The Humidity: I'm already picturing my hair. Frizzy, likely. I'll have to embrace the look.
- Food: I'm going to overeat. Guarantee it. I'm not usually that much of a foodie on vacations but Indian food is delicious.
- Expectations vs. Reality: I'm prepared for things to go not as planned. And I am here for it.
- Language Barriers: My Hindi is limited to "Namaste" and hopefully, a few words I pick up along the way.
- The People: I'm hoping to meet all kinds of people. I'm always up for a conversation.
This is just a rough sketch, a roadmap for the unfolding chaos. The beauty of travel is the unexpected, the moments that weren't planned, the people you meet along the way. I'm ready for it all! Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go find my passport. And maybe buy a massive supply of Pepto-Bismol. Just in case. Wish me luck!
Uncover the Untamed Luxury: Corbett's Hidden Gem, Chilkiya Range!
Okay, spill the tea. Is Escape to Paradise: Ahlan International Hotel REALLY as good as they say?
Good question. Look, the marketing? Beautiful. The Instagram posts? *Chef's kiss*. My *experience*? Well... it’s complicated. "Paradise" is a strong word, you know? It's more like... a really charming Bollywood romantic comedy that occasionally glitches out. The Ahlan has its moments of pure brilliance – think, the hero's grand proposal scene with breathtaking views – but also some genuinely hilarious blooper reels.
I booked it based on a friend's enthusiastic recommendation – "OMG, you HAVEEE to see it, it's like a secret oasis!" Turns out, the secret is... maybe a slightly enthusiastic marketing budget. But listen, despite the "glitches," and the slight feeling of being transported back in time (in a good way!), I'd say... yeah. It's good. Different, but good. You gotta go in knowing it's not *The Ritz*.
The location! Is it really 'hidden'? Because 'hidden' can sometimes mean 'miles from anywhere'...
Okay, "hidden" is a *bit* of an exaggeration. It's not like you need a Sherpa and a map. It's in Mumbai, near the airport, which is GREAT if you're trying to catch a flight (which I was, and believe me, that's important!). But it's not exactly smack dab in the middle of the action touristy stuff. You'll probably be taking some cabs or rickshaws to get around. Which is part of the charm, honestly. You get to *experience* Mumbai at its vibrant best (and worst!).
Finding the entrance initially? *That* was an adventure. I swear, I walked past it three times before finally realizing I'd arrived. There's no neon sign screaming "WELCOME TO PARADISE!" It's like... a subtle, elegant nod. A little like the hotel itself!
What about the rooms? I'm picturing a dingy, damp nightmare. Please tell me I'm wrong.
Alright, deep breaths. "Dingy, damp nightmare" is definitely not the vibe. My room? Surprisingly spacious. I'd booked a suite – because *treat yo'self* – and it was… well, it wasn't *perfect*. There was a slight, and I mean *slight*, musty smell when I first walked in. But hey, Mumbai! It's humid. And once I cranked up the AC, it vanished.
The decorations are… let’s call them *eclectic*. Imagine Bollywood meets colonial charm with a generous dollop of vintage wallpaper. It's not minimalist, that's for sure! But it's clean, the bed was comfortable, and the view from my balcony – overlooking the pool, which was sparkling and inviting, I will add - was pretty spectacular. I will say there were a few strange stains on the carpet, but I pretended it was part of the character. Besides, who really stares at the floor on vacation anyway?
Food! Tell me about the food. Will I need to pack a survival kit?
The food. *Ahhhh*, the food. Alright, listen up. The Ahlan’s restaurant, the “Spice Route” (again, a *slight* exaggeration, but, charming!), is genuinely *good*. Breakfast buffets? MASSIVE. So many curries! So many dosa! So many options I couldn’t even taste them all. I may or may not have walked out with a samosa in my purse (don't judge me, it was delicious later).
The service, however... here's a story. One evening, I ordered room service (because, again, *treat yo'self*). I requested a specific dish. An hour and a half later, I got something *completely* different. And it was… okay. But not what I ordered. I called down and *then* the fun began. It took another hour and two phone calls before the correct dish arrived. Was I furious? A little. Did I laugh about it later? Absolutely. It’s part of the experience, people! Embrace the chaos! And the food, when it eventually arrives, is worth the wait.
The hotel has a bar and a rooftop area that opens at night, it's an absolute vibe. There are all types of cocktail and mocktail options. Food and drinks are relatively inexpensive here and is a great plus.
The pool! What's the pool situation? Is it crowded? Clean? Magical?
Okay, the pool. This is where things get interesting. The pool, in my opinion, is the *star* of the show. Sparkling, blue, and surrounded by lush greenery. It felt pretty magical. And the best part? It never seemed *too* crowded, even though the hotel was pretty busy. There was always a sun lounger available.
The water was CLEAN. I tested it thoroughly, I swear! Swimming length after length after length, while hearing the Bollywood music.
And, I have to tell you - I have a confession. I actually *did* try to take a photo of myself while I was swimming in the pool, and I did a whole round of silly poses and selfies! I wouldn't want to make the whole experience awkward by taking a silly picture, but I did it and I’m not ashamed to admit it.
Also, one day, I saw this elderly lady taking a dip with her goggles. She was swimming in the pool and having the time of her life, and it was the cutest thing ever!
Customer service? Are they friendly? Helpful? Or just… there?
The staff… well, let's use the word "idiosyncratic". Some were *incredibly* helpful and charming. I mean, genuinely lovely people who went out of their way to make you feel welcome. Others… well, there were some language barriers. And the speed of service, as I mentioned with the room service, could be… leisurely.
But here's the thing. They *try*. You can tell they’re there for you. It’s not like they’re intentionally rude. It's more like they’re operating on a different time zone. A slower, more relaxed, "India time" kind of vibe. Just go with it. And if there’s a problem, just smile, be patient, and eventually, it'll get sorted. Either that, or you’ll have a funny story to tell later.
Would you go back? Seriously, would you?
Absolutely. Without a doubt. Despite the occasional slow service and the few minor imperfections, I would not hesitate to go back.Hotelicity
