Cool Destinations Update: U is for Udaipur

Photo: A view of Udaipur's City Palace on the boat ride to Lake Palace.

On a recent visit to the Lake Palace in Udaipur during a recce trip for a corporate client, the complacent front desk staff left me somewhat unimpressed. Although the hardware is every bit the stunning palace and I would still recommend it for people who want a memorable venue to mark an occasion -- imagine a marriage proposal at sunset on the roof terrace or after-dinner cocktails on their barge with firework overhead reflecting onto the still lake waters. Yet a stay there is not that tempting; as the clientele is mainly groups. For a property that has such a magical setting (it would make Disneyland jealous!) with well-appointed rooms and amazing lake views, it's a shame that it doesn't have the attentive, personalised service to match. Everyone there just seemed to be going through the motions, working by a formula, exhibiting little creativity. It's a shame really, because I can only imagine what a top rate luxury hotel mangement company could do for the place.