A royal suite with an inbuilt swing that overlooks the Arabian Sea! What else could be a better place for a great weekend stay in the buzzing Mumbai city. Novotel Juhu Beach is one of the few hotels in Mumbai that enjoy a fabulous location just next to the beach and this is one of the highlights of the property. As soon as a guest gets up in the morning, the sight of the beautiful waves rushing towards the beach is a sight that is tough to recreate even in the fanciest of hotels all over the world. We were accorded a warm welcome by General Manager Manish Dayya and his team as we stepped into the hotel. Being welcomed by the hotel in a traditional Indian way with Marigold garlands and a traditional aarti thaali has a charm of its own. Located a mere 8 km from the international and domestic airports, the hotel is ideally situated on the beautiful and bustling Juhu Beach. Novotel Juhu Beach houses 203 superbly appointed guest rooms with views overlooking the Arabian Sea which consists of 12 suites, 60 premier rooms and 131 superior rooms.
As I entered the brand new royal suite, the beauty of the design completely mesmerized me. It was quite unlike a design I have ever seen, especially in a city like Mumbai which is full of hotels with modern designs and the latest in technology and superior infrastructure. In one corner of the living room, I noticed a large swing and was really excited. Swings have always been a favourite with me since childhood. The royal suite has been designed like the suites that exist in royal palaces in Rajasthan. In fact the hotel has created a royal Rajasthaani thaali especially for occupants of the royal suite. The thaali (platter) is huge and has dishes such as Bajre ka raab, Dal Bati Churma, Kher ki Sabzi, Gatte ki Sabzi, Gawarfalli ki sabzi, paneer papad ki sabzi, Rajasthani bhindi, Marwari Poori, Hare Mattar ka Parantha, Laal Maas, bajri ki roti, gatta aur matter ka pulao, aloo hara pyaaz, bharwan mirch pakoda, aloo ki tikki, Indian green salad, pyaz ki sabzi, tamatar ki launji, ghewar and malpua with rabri.
The Chinese restaurant called Sampan is a legendary eatery in Mumbai and has an immense fan following with foodies both locals and tourists. In the evening I had a fantastic Indian meal at the Bageecha which is the hotel’s garden restaurant. Seasonal, terrace restaurant, features the forgotten recipes of ancient India painstakingly created by our chefs as a special, unlimited four course treats by the poolside. The next morning I stopped by the cute little café cum patisserie in the lobby called Peche Mignon which serves an array of delicious muffins, London Dairy Ice-creams, teas, coffees, gourmet breads, pastries, etc.
Gadda da Vida, a lounge by the sea is popular with several people in Mumbai and is always buzzing with Mumbaikars who are dressed to the nines when they visit this place, I spent two fun evenings here and the staff created five varieties of Sangrias for me served with kabab platters, olives served with feta cheese. The second day, a live band was playing in the lounge, the sight of the waves crashing by the shore, great music, efficient service and sumptuous cuisine makes Gadda da Vida a must visit when one is in Mumbai.
Novotel Juhu Beach houses the O2 Spa and Salon for those who wish to rejuvenate. I went for the aromatherapy massage which lasted for ninety minutes and was really relaxing. The efficient therapist put me to sleep gradually as the treatment progressed. The salon and spa house efficient therapists and this was obvious looking at their busy appointments diaries. So whether it is a hair colour appointment or a manicure and pedicure, the efficient therapists make sure you have a relaxing time and walk out with a feeling of well being. Fitness enthusiasts can spend time at In Balance, a well equipped fitness centre or the outdoor swimming pool. There is a garden where guests can enjoy a walk with spectacular views of the Arabian Sea, a terrace and with easy access to Juhu Beach from one can always go for a morning walk. I went to the beach one morning and it was a pleasant sight to watch so many people exercising and walking along the beach.
Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, known for its bewitching sunsets over the gorgeous Arabian Sea, is centrally located in Mumbai and is a perfect destination for a weekend stay when in the Maximum City.
NOVOTEL MUMBAI JUHU BEACH
Balraj Sahani Marg, Juhu Beach, Mumbai – 400049 Maharashtra, India
