The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra

With views of the Taj from just about anywhere on the grounds, the location can't be beat. You are getting what you pay for when you stay here. First class all the way. Service throughout - front desk, housekeeping, spa, etc - was outstanding. I was disappointed by the restaurants on site, however. The Indian dinner offerings were good, but not outstanding. The ambiance was relaxed and upscale, but the food itself was nothing that I hadn't found in any other North Indian restaurants I went to. The breakfast buffet was very good and extensive (really, try the croissants or the dosas, they're both fabulous), but service was spotty during our visit. One day it was attentive and timely, the next day, the staff wasn't around when needed, but seemingly at my elbow whenever I didn't need them. On that morning, my wife and I had two different waiters attempt to serve us the same fried egg dish that neither had ordered! Somebody, somewhere, was going to get a cold fried egg whether they liked it or not... Spa experience was also outstanding. Nothing like soaking in a warm tub filled with milk and rose petals while overlooking the Taj Mahal to end a wonderful afternoon of sightseeing. Definitely worth considering if you're crossing the Taj off your bucket list. You only live once, after all.

The view is just so wonderful....although Taj is a little further away than I thought it would be - you would be very unfortunate too....but it does happen a few days before us was thick fog - no view of Taj at all! The smiles and uniforms of the staff are so gorgeous. The only things that let a hotel like this down - supposed to be one of the best were. - lack of atmosphere in the bar, no piano, nothing, very still, quiet and empty! - Also every drink either in bar or on terrace, same, same, crisp and nut - would think they could be a little more exciting a varied. Also - although the breakfast restaurant had hardly any people in it the service -- i.e getting toast was slow - but perhaps I just expect everything quickly - relaxing in not my game!! They are tiny things but would of been nice. - This hotel is the only hotel ever where I have been taken to my room to check in - and after a 6 hour hair raising drive from New Delhi - that was fantastic. Overall - I will just remember the beautiful friendly smiles that were so genuine :-)