Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: The Xen Suites, Kolkata
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: The Xen Suites, Kolkata - My Honest (and Slightly Chaotic) Take
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from a stay at The Xen Suites in Kolkata, and let me tell you, it was… an experience. I’m talking highs, lows, and a whole lotta "wow, they really thought of everything!" - and maybe a few "hmm, could be better." But hey, what’s life without a little spice? This isn't your typical, dry-as-dust review; prepare for the real deal, warts and all.
First Impressions (and the Slightly Stressful Arrival):
Getting there was a breeze. The airport transfer? Smooth as silk. Airport transfer is a godsend, especially after a long flight, and The Xen Suites nailed it. They even had a little bottle of water waiting – already a win in my book (remember to stay hydrated folks!).
Now, the check-in… Well, it wasn’t a disaster, but it could've been snappier. Thankfully, they offer Contactless check-in/out, which is a definite plus in these times. And the staff? Generally polite – more on them later. They also have Facilities for disabled guests and an Elevator, a crucial combination for accessibility (more on that later too). I also saw Car park [free of charge] and Valet parking available but didn't need either.
Location, Location, Luxury… and the Buzz of Kolkata:
Kolkata is alive. If you’re after peace and quiet, you've come to the wrong city, period. The Xen Suites, strategically placed, are a decent starting point. I didn’t get to explore the city as much as I'd have liked, but the Taxi service was readily available, and that really helped.
Room Revelations (and a Few Quibbles):
Stepping into my room… chef's kiss. Seriously. Air conditioning that actually worked (a lifesaver), a King-sized bed, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. I could practically live here. Wi-Fi [free] of course… thank goodness. Daily housekeeping was fantastic, the room was spotless (a major kudos to the cleaning staff!). The Wi-Fi [free] was also pretty consistent, which is essential for, you know, actually working!
Now, the imperfections… the Window that opens was a bit rickety, and the Internet access – LAN wasn't necessarily the speediest thing in the world. But hey, nobody's perfect, right?
Accessibility - A Mixed Bag, But Promising:
Okay, so I didn't personally need extensive accessibility features, but I paid close attention. They offer Facilities for disabled guests, and the Elevator is a must-have. The Front desk [24-hour] would likely be helpful, and the rooms seemed spacious enough. However, the website could be clearer about specific features like ramp access or adapted bathrooms. I'd advise anyone with specific accessibility needs to contact the hotel directly before booking for clarification.
Food, Glorious Food… (and the Unexpected Curry Cravings):
Alright, let's talk food. This is where The Xen Suites really shines. The Restaurants are plentiful, and the variety is amazing.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Oh. My. Goodness. The buffet. Western and Asian, it was all there. Fresh fruit, pastries, eggs cooked to order, everything you could dream of. I actually went back for seconds every day. Asian breakfast and Western breakfast all available.
- Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant: I'm not a picky eater, and I will eat anything. But I could not stop ordering their Asian dishes. I swear, I had a curry craving that just – wouldn't – go – away. Seriously, the Soup in restaurant was perfection. A la carte in restaurant, and Buffet in restaurant, ensured there was something for everyone.
- Room service [24-hour]: After a long day of travel, it was the best thing to have. Room service was, well, it was 24 hours and it was excellent. Their Coffee/tea in restaurant was absolutely essential. Coffee shop was also great!
- Snack bar: Great for quick bites and easy to find and grab stuff.
- Poolside bar: I didn’t spend a lot of time at the pool, (more on the pool later), but the Poolside bar was open and well-stocked.
- Vegetarian restaurant: A welcome addition for those who need it.
- Happy hour: A nice touch, just to wind down after a long day.
A small complaint: the Desserts in restaurant seemed a little… generic. But hey, can't win 'em all.
Ways to Relax (and the Un-Relaxing Sauna):
Okay, so I’m a big fan of the whole "spa day" thing. The Xen Suites offers a decent selection of relaxation options.
- Spa: A true haven of calm.
- Sauna: I was so excited for the sauna! But I’m going to be honest… it was a little meh. Maybe it wasn’t hot enough, maybe I was just expecting too much. It was fine.
- Steamroom: Didn't try the steamroom, but I heard good things.
- Massage: Absolutely divine. The massage therapist was skilled, and I walked out feeling like a new person. 10/10 would recommend.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: The Pool with view was fantastic, it was the perfect place to wind down after a long day.
- Fitness center: The gym was well-equipped, and I spent a little time on the treadmill.
Cleanliness and Safety – A Breath of Fresh Air (Literally):
This is where The Xen Suites really earns its stripes. In the age of… well, gestures vaguely… cleanliness is paramount.
- Anti-viral cleaning products and Daily disinfection in common areas were apparent. This put my mind at ease.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: A nice touch, giving you control.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: The staff seemed well-versed.
- Hand sanitizer stations were everywhere.
- Individually-wrapped food options: A thoughtful touch.
- Safe dining setup: Everything felt clean and secure.
- The Hotel offers Hygiene certification.
Amenities and Services (and the Slightly Annoying Concierge):
The Xen Suites offers a ton of services and conveniences.
- Cash withdrawal: Super convenient.
- Concierge: I found the concierge a little… lacking. They weren't particularly helpful with some of my requests.
- Laundry service, Dry cleaning, and Ironing service: All crucial for a longer stay.
- Business facilities: Looked pretty standard.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Great for last-minute gifts.
For the Kids:
While I didn't travel with any kiddos, I spotted Babysitting service and Kids facilities, which is fantastic.
Getting Around (and My Love-Hate Relationship with Kolkata Traffic):
Navigating Kolkata can be… an adventure.
- The mentioned Airport transfer was a lifesaver.
- Taxi service was readily available.
- I didn't use the Car power charging station, Bicycle parking or Car park [on-site].
The Verdict (and a Compelling Offer):
Overall? The Xen Suites in Kolkata is a fantastic choice. It's not perfect – the concierge could up their game, and the sauna needs a little TLC. But the luxurious rooms, the amazing food, the commitment to cleanliness, and the overall level of service more than make up for it.
Here's my honest breakdown:
- Worth the splurge?: Absolutely. Especially if you're looking for a little pampering.
- Would I go back?: Definitely.
- Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (minus half a star for the iffy sauna)
Now, for a deal you can’t refuse!
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: The Xen Suites, Kolkata - Your Escape from Ordinary!
Escape to Paradise: Viva Fortuna's All-Inclusive Freeport Bliss!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the glorious, chaotic, and probably slightly sleep-deprived experience that is my trip to The Xen Suites in Kolkata. This isn’t your polished, Instagram-perfect travelogue. This is the real deal. Think "lost in translation" meets "embracing the chaos" with a healthy dose of delicious food cravings.
The Xen Suites: Kolkata - My Unfiltered Itinerary (or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Rickshaw Ride)
Day 1: Arrival and the Existential Crisis of Airport Wi-Fi
8:00 AM (ish): Landed in Kolkata! The air hit me like a warm, fragrant hug. Or maybe it was just the oppressive heat of Bengal. Doesn’t matter. I’m here! Immediately, I'm lost in the charming chaos of the airport. The immigration line snaked on forever, like a particularly grumpy python. And then, the moment of truth: finding the airport Wi-Fi. Good Lord, it's been a battle. I swore I was better off using morse code to get through the customs. I was starting to think I might as well leave my identity card here and go feral. I finally got connected, though, after the eighth attempt: victorious!
9:30 AM: Found my driver (who, let's be honest, I’d forgotten was coming) and we ventured into the city. The ride to Xen Suites was… an experience. Let's just say, Kolkata's traffic is a living, breathing organism. Honking is the universal language, and lane markings are more of a suggestion. My internal monologue oscillated between abject terror and pure, unadulterated fascination. "Is this real? Am I going to die in a rickshaw? But look at that saree! Oh my god, the chai! Okay, I'm fine."
11:00 AM: Arrived at The Xen Suites. What a relief! This place is beautiful. It's like a little oasis of cool amidst the madness. The staff are incredibly friendly, and the room… well, the room is a haven. It's modern and clean, a perfect contrast to the outside world. Okay, time for a shower to wash the city dust off. And yes, I'll order room service: I'm already hungry.
1:00 PM: Lunch! I ordered some butter chicken and naan. Oh. My. God. Pure bliss. I might have licked the plate clean. Don’t judge me.
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Exploring the hotel and the surrounding area. I wandered around, got my bearings. It felt very different that I imagined. Was there a hint of culture shock? Perhaps. Trying to adjust to the smells of the city, the different clothes, the looks that people gave me. I found a local market and got thoroughly lost (in a good way) amidst the colours, the spices, and the cacophony of sounds. Bought a silly hat. No regrets.
6:00 PM: Back to the hotel to cool down. The air conditioning is a gift from the gods. I’m pretty sure I sat there for an hour doing absolutely nothing, just letting the cool air wash over me. I might have also accidentally fallen asleep. Jet lag is a beast.
7:30 PM: Dinner at the hotel. I went for something light this time (I think). And then, the best part of the day: I finally got to meet the owner, who was just the loveliest human being. We talked for ages. She gave me a little insight into the city, its history, and its people. Now, I'm getting excited to go out!
9:00 PM: Bedtime. Or, at least, attempted. I'm now in bed, and my brain is still buzzing. The city sounds are coming in, like a symphony of horns, hawkers, and the gentle hum of life. It's a wild mix but I love it.
Day 2: Lost in the Magic of Kolkata (And Possibly, Literal Lostness)
8:00 AM: Woke up feeling refreshed, but still slightly dazed. Coffee is essential. The Xen Suites coffee is good, thankfully.
9:00 AM: Breakfast. The buffet breakfast was incredible. Everything you could imagine, from traditional Indian breakfast to western options. I ate way too much. I blame the deliciousness.
10:00 AM: Determined to be adventurous. I decided to go and visit the Marble Palace, a famous monument. I hailed a taxi and set off. A ride in Kolkata is always an adventure. I saw every kind of transport, from the classic rickshaw to the super modern cars. I even ended up in a little traffic chaos.
11:00 AM: Marble Palace. Oh. My. God. This place is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Ornate statues, huge paintings, and antique furniture galore. It’s like stepping back in time. I kind of got lost in there. I went from room to room, just gawking at the beauty and the grandeur. I’m a sucker for a good chandelier, and this place had them in spades. Definitely worth it!
1:00 PM: Lunch. I ate at a little cafe very close to Park Street. I had the best biryani of my life. It was a revelation. I am now officially addicted.
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: I wandered around the city. I went to the Victoria Memorial. I just stood there and admired it. It's simply stunning, and the surrounding gardens are glorious. It was so hot that i could only spend a couple of hours outside. But it was perfect! I bought a little ice cream to cool down.
6:00 PM: More exploring, this time walking around the area near the hotel. I went to a small market. I found some textiles. The best part of the market was the chai. I drank like a gallon of it.
7:00 PM: This is going to be a big one. One last trip to the best restaurant in town. I ordered all the food. No regrets (again).
9:00 PM: Back to the hotel. Time for a proper, much-needed sleep.
Day 3: The Calcutta Farewell (and a Vow to Return)
8:00 AM: Coffee. The absolute necessity. I'm starting to get used to the pace of the city. I am slowly learning how to accept the chaos.
9:00 AM: Breakfast. This time, I ate less food. I was still full from yesterday.
10:00 AM: Packing. A sad affair. I don't wanna leave.
11:00 AM: Final walk around the hotel. I'm going to miss the Xen Suites. It was a great base.
12:00 PM: Check out. A bit of a blur. The staff were so lovely and friendly. It's sad to leave.
1:00 PM: Airport. More chaos. More existential dread. More Wi-Fi battles.
4:00 PM: The plane takes off, and the city shrinks below. I look at it with a weird sense of nostalgia.
I've made friends. I've eaten incredible food. I've navigated the streets of Kolkata. I’ve embraced the mess of it all. And honestly, it feels amazing. This trip wasn't perfect, not by a long shot. But it was real. It was unforgettable. And yeah, I'll be back. Kolkata, you magnificent, chaotic, beautiful city, you've stolen a piece of my heart. I’ll bring a better wifi for next time. And maybe, just maybe, I'll learn to love the honking. Or at least accept it. Until next time!
Escape to Paradise: Your Stunning Jomtien Condo Studio Awaits!
1. Okay, FINE, What *ARE* the Xen Suites Supposed to Be, REALLY?
Alright, alright, settle down. From what I gather – and from the perfectly curated, slightly-too-polished website (you know the type) – the Xen Suites are supposed to be the *epitome* of luxury in Kolkata. Think plush everything. Think Michelin-star whispered in hushed tones. Think "Forget the crowds, darling, we're in a cocoon of pure, unadulterated fabulousness." They're aiming for that "exclusive experience" vibe, you know? It's like… a castle made of fluffy pillows, hopefully *not* covered in dust bunnies.
The website promises stunning views of the city, "bespoke services," whatever that actually MEANS, and rooms that are apparently "designed to inspire." Inspired to… what? Become disgustingly rich? I'm already inspired to go buy some lottery tickets, so, you know, the bar isn't exactly high.
2. View from Heaven or Glimpse of Garbage Trucks? What's the *REAL* View Like?
Here's the thing. They *claim* stunning city views. And let's be honest, Kolkata can offer some STUNNING views. But let's also be REAL. Kolkata is a city. Cities… happen. Buildings go up. Sometimes, they put up a building RIGHT in front of your *stunning* view, blocking out the sunrise.
I'm betting on a mix. Some rooms, yeah, they'll probably have the "ooh-ah" view. Others? You'll be staring at a brick wall, quietly weeping into your complimentary chamomile tea. It's the gamble of luxury hotels, isn't it? The roulette wheel of "Did I get the good room?"
3. Let's Talk Prices. Is This 'Luxury' Thing Going to Bankrupt Me? (Asking for a Friend... aka Me)
Sigh. The million-dollar question, isn't it? Look, I'm not a financial advisor (thank god), but based on the whole vibe of the Xen Suites, expect sticker shock. Like, your jaw might clatter on the floor sticker shock. This is not going to be a budget stay, folks.
I'm imagining a price tag that makes your credit card weep. But then again, that includes "bespoke services", which probably includes someone to fan you while you eat your caviar, so... yeah, probably high. Pray that the experience is worth it, because, let's be honest, that IS what really matters, right? Or maybe I’m just trying to rationalise the fact that I can't afford to go.
4. "Bespoke Services." WHAT DOES THAT EVEN *MEAN*? Are They Going to Read Me Bedtime Stories? (I Could Use That.)
Ah, the magic phrase. "Bespoke services." It's the luxury hotel code for "We'll do whatever you want… as long as you're willing to pay for it." Think: private car service (likely), shopping assistants (definitely), maybe even a personal chef who only makes you food from organically-farmed unicorn tears (probably not, but I can dream!).
I'm picturing someone coming into my room and meticulously unfolding my socks. That would be nice, actually. I hate folding socks. But, like, probably not included. Unless I REALLY beg. And tip REALLY well. It's a complicated game, this luxury business.
Maybe they'll offer a "bespoke grief counselor" if your caviar craving is unmet. That would be amazing and terrible at the same time. What would you even say?
5. The Food. Oh, Dear God, THE FOOD. Tell Me They Have Good Food!
Okay, food is important. Seriously important. If the Xen Suites skimp on the food, I'm rioting. I'm picturing (and secretly hoping for) a chef who's trained on the moon, an extensive menu of things I can't pronounce, and breakfast delivered by a fleet of tiny, adorable robot waiters.
On the website it describes a "culinary journey". Which could mean anything from "We serve the usual hotel buffet" to "We fly in Michelin-starred chefs weekly." (Fingers crossed for the latter!). I need details! Give me the dishes! Give me the ingredients! Give me the *prices* (still worrying about that, haha). If I'm dropping a small fortune on a room, I better be able to eat like I'm royalty. Or at least a mildly-spoiled prince.
I once stayed at a "luxury" hotel where the "gourmet" dinner tasted suspiciously like airplane food. I still have nightmares. So, yeah… food is critical.
6. Are the Reviews Any Good? Because I Can't *AFFORD* a Bad Experience! (Seriously.)
The problem is, right now, there are precious few reviews out there. It's all shiny website promises. This is where my internal cynicism kicks in. I NEED to see some real people, with real opinions, who didn't get paid to say nice things.
If I *were* to find reviews, I'd be looking for things like: Cleanliness (the big one!), the staff's actual attentiveness (not just the "we're trained to smile" kind), and if the whole thing feels… genuine. Or if it's just style over substance. I'm crossing my fingers that people haven't just given themselves a bunch of self-reviews on some made up accounts.
I found a hotel in Rome once that was PERFECT. It was old, it was in a great location, and the people were wonderful. It cost me an arm and a leg. Oh, and then it turned out that the bathroom flooded. Like, really flooded. And the hotel clerk? Couldn't care less. (But I'll admit, for that short time it was amazing.)
7. Okay, Let's Say I'm Rich (Dreaming!) What are the Non-Negotiables? What Do I NEED?
Alright, pretend I'm a billionaire, for a second. The first thing I would want is NO MOSQUITOES. Kolkata, being Kolkata, tends to have them. So, seriously effective mosquito netting, AND top-of-the-line air conditioning is non-negotiable. I hate mosquitos. (They ruined my last holiday!)
Next? A balcony. A HUGE balcony. With a view. I want to sit out there with a book and the aforementioned chamomile tea (or maybe something a little stronger… like a really good single-malt). And ideally, no screaming children from down below to ruin the zen.
Oh, and a bathtub. A bigUrban Hotel Search
