Popular Colonial Hotels in Asia

While worldwide chains of luxury hotels boast of providing state-of-the-art facilities and modern luxuries, Colonial hotels have withstood the tests of time and echo in their rich heritage, culture and history.
Although the era of British Empire now rests in the distant past, there still remains an enigmatic nostalgia induced by the Colonial hotels which attract a diverse group of ‘the golden era’ aficionados.

Here’s a compilation of the popular colonial hotels in Asia that are as magnificent today as they were back in their heydays.

1. Raffles – Singapore

Raffles was built by the Sarkies brothers in 1887 and is popular all over the world for its literary associations – Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham, Alfred Hitchcock and Ernest Hemingway. Legend has it that all of these great personalities drank at the hotel’s bar.

Raffles fuses an intoxicating blend of colonial design, history and luxury with its classic architecture. The hotel is a stark distinction from the city’s modern skyscrapers and provides six categories of available suites.

2. The Eastern & Oriental - Penang

Another Sarkies Brother’s creation, The Eastern and The Oriental were two separate hotels back in the days brought together in 1885. Now known as The Eastern and Oriental (aka E&O), the hotel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. E&O is remembered for its white facade embellished by the tropical palms that add to the grandeur of this monument.

The Eastern & Oriental has attracted glamorous British personalities including Somerset Maugham, Noel Coward, Douglas Fairbanks and Rudyard Kipling.

3. Windamere Hotel – Darjeeling

Windamere Hotel offers and bestows the guests with a magnificent skyline of Mount Kanchenjunga.As Windamere Hotel is an authentic British Colonial hotel in India, the place is devoid of the world outside and visitors can certainly relish an undisturbed and peaceful stay.

4. The Strand – Yangon

The Strand in Yangon is one of the purest reminders of the Colonial period as it is the third creation of Sarkies Brothers. The architectural masterpiece quickly became a sensation in all over Asia when it first opened in 1990. This mansion-like property faces straight to the Yangon River and remains true to its architectural past and rich heritage.

5. The Metropole – Hanoi

The Metropole is popular for its Indochina-chic in all over Vietnam. With rigorous refurbishments, this grand dame still embraces its colonial charm with bottle green shutters, Parisian style terrace, and roof-top gardens - all in the backdrop of a white facade. The hotel’s guests include notable names like Charlie Chaplin, Jacques Chirac, Graham Greene and Francois Mitterrand.

Top 5 Luxury Hotels in India

India is home to some of the world-renowned heritage hotels that cater to tourists from different cultures and ethnicity. Gone are the days where budget-minded backpackers treated themselves with a meal or two in fancy hotels as the luxury ante in India has really gotten high.
 
Here we present some of the different kinds of luxury hotels in India.

1. Taj Rambagh Palace – Jaipur

Known as ‘The Jewel of Jaipur,’ Taj Rambagh is pure magic. Previously, Taj Rambagh Palace was a residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur which was later transformed into a luxury hotel. You can fully experience the grand and lavish lifestyle of ancient Maharajas in this architectural masterpiece.

2. Umaid Bhawan Palace – Jodhpur

Umaid Bhawan Palace is not just one of the most beautiful heritage hotels in India but also one of the largest private residences in the world. The hotel is named after Maharaja Umaid Singh and the surrounding areas of this hotel are pretty verdant. In Umaid Bhawan Palace, you can get close to royal living as the hotel is a portmanteau of western and eastern architectural styles.

3. Windamere Hotel - Darjeeling

Darjeeling is an entirely different world in the north-eastern part of India where nature and luxury come together to give you an unforgettable experience.  Windamere Hotel – one of the best hotels in Darjeeling is a true luxurious classic.  Apart from comforting yourself with warm services that this Colonial hotel offers, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Mount Kanchenjunga right from your room/ balcony.

4. Chapslee – Shimla

Built as a summer retreat for Raja Charanjit Singh, Chapslee has gloriously transcended into a luxurious heritage hotel. Chapslee is situated in the pleasing hills of Dhualadhar ranges. The heritage hotel offers apt accommodation and has been renovated to provide modern luxury.         
5. Taj Palace and Tower – Mumbai

Taj Palace and Tower takes you back to the times of the Maharajas and dignitaries. The hotel was built way before the Gateway of India and is popular for its world-class hospitality. The dining venues of Taj Palace and Tower serve Indian and international delicacies. The rooms and lobbies of Taj Palace and Tower are embellished with authentic handpicked artifacts which are also the hotel’s biggest flair.

Beautiful Places for Couples to Visit for Their Second Honeymoon

Second honeymoon is all about rekindling romance and reliving all the wonderful memories of your marriage. Most couples take a second honeymoon to reconnect with each other and make their love grow stronger. Over here we discuss some of the most beautiful places for couples to visit for their second honeymoon.

1. Bali, Indonesia

Although Bali is one of the most preferred honeymoon destinations by newly married couples, second honeymoon couples also travel to the island quite often. Apart from being affordable, Bali treats you with splendid view of serene beaches. May, June and September are the best time to visit Bali. You can explore the tropical jungle, dive in Bali’s white beaches or even hike your way to the summit of Mount Batur.

2. Darjeeling, India

Nestled in the arms of the Lesser Himalaya, Darjeeling is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The humble town welcomes you with its subduing climate and brings you closest to nature’s serenity.
Darjeeling is a perfect 2nd honeymoon destination as you discover the purity and innocence of paradise here. The locals out here are warm and welcoming, thus, making your trip a memorable one. 

Darjeeling Honeymoon Hotels

If you love everything vintage, then Windamere Hotel is the right place to stay for your second honeymoon. From calm surroundings to spa therapies that will rejuvenate your senses, you are sure to discover the new you in the Windamere Hotel.

Want to book a hotel in Darjeeling that welcomes you with its old-world charm? If yes, check Windamere Hotel’s website and book your reservation online.

3. Denarau Island, Fiji Islands

From vast openness of water to hiding away in the mysterious jungles - the secluded Denarau Island in Fiji is not for the faint-hearted couples. Pampering couple spa, sunbathing, water sports and what not? You name it, and Denarau Island has it all.

4. Panglao Island, Philippines

From scuba diving, sunbathing and island hopping to dolphin watching - this tiny island dotted with white-sand beaches has something for everyone which makes it a perfect second honeymoon destination.

The Story Behind Darjeeling Tea

Darjeeling is the area that produces the most aromatic variety of tea, the Darjeeling tea. It has a unique aroma and a perfect flavour accompanied by a musky spiciness. No doubt, connoisseurs have rightly dubbed it as the Champagne of Teas. Let's take a look at the brief history of Darjeeling tea:

1. It was in 1841 when tea planting began in Darjeeling. Dr Arthur Campbell was the first person to plant tea seeds in his garden just as an experiment to see what type of crops are suitable in that area.
2. In 1847, the British government established tea nurseries across Darjeeling. The tea nurseries were successful, and this venture encouraged the tea growers in the area to procure land and start tea plantations. The tea seeds were brought from the Botanical Gardens in Calcutta.
3. The first tea gardens or plantations in Darjeeling were started in Makaibari and Alubari. This was followed by plantations at Tokvar, Dooteriah, Moondakothi, and Margaret’s Hope.
4. Many Europeans such as Capt. Masson, Dr Grant. The Barnes Brother, Mr George Christison, were some of the pioneers of Darjeeling tea.
5. By 1866, about 39 tea estates were covering 405 hectares of land in the region.
6. It was W. O'Brien Ansell, an engineer, who further propelled the development of the tea industry in Darjeeling. He was the first to introduced tea sorters and power-driven tea roller in the region.
7. After independence, by 1956, ownerships of the majority of tea estates changed hands. It was noted European tea planters like Mr T.J Hardingham and Mr C. W Emmett who stayed back and helped in promoting the Darjeeling tea.

Want to experience the richness of Darjeeling tea while enjoying the magical beauty of the hills? If yes, then visit The Windamere Hotel, the truly authentic British colonial hotel in India. The hotel is the best place to enjoy a delightful afternoon tea, whilst soaking in the history of colonial India. Nothing could be as luxurious as sipping the finest cup of pale gold Darjeeling tea while sitting back and enjoying the view of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga. So, if you want to a book hotel in Darjeeling, book your stay at the Windamere Hotel.

Little History of Colonialism in India

India has a rich, vivid, and vibrant history of colonial rule. The British ruled the Indian subcontinent from 1858 to 1947. Before that, the Indian subcontinent was under Company Raj and was governed by the British East India Company which commenced from 1757. It was in 1858 that the rule was transferred from the East India Company to the Crown. Let's explore a few facts about the history of colonialism in India:

1. The British ruled 60% of the country directly and the rest through the native princes who followed the British policies. During the rule, the British developed cotton and tea plantations. The British government also developed the iron and coal industries.
2. It was in 1877 when Queen Victoria was proclaimed the Empress of India
3. The British developed railroads and telegraph lines in India. By 1900, India had the longest railroads in Asia.
4. The architectural style also underwent significant changes. The western style of architecture became more ubiquitous during that period. In the late 19th century, the Indo-Gothic, Mughal-Gothic and Neo-Gothic styles became pre-eminent. The public and the government buildings, clock towers, town halls, and churches followed an architectural style that reflected the British Empire. The significant characteristics included pointed arches, domes, open pavilions, vaulted roofs, and overhanging eaves.
5. The British also participated in both World War I (1914-18) and World War II (1939-45) and heavily relied on Indian recruits to fill the ranks in their army. In return, the British government promised many political concessions. This encouraged further demands by the Indian and eventually, pushed the demand for independence.

Even today, you will come across monuments, palaces and buildings that will remind you of the Raj era. Most of these places have been converted into hotels. If you want to relive the Raj era, then there is no better place than the Windamere Hotel, one of the truly authentic colonial hotels in India. This place was once used by the British Tea planters and was like a "home away from home." If you are planning for booking hotel in Darjeeling, India, then book your stay at the Windamere Hotel and revisit history.

How People Celebrated Christmas in Bygone Era

Christmas in India is considered one of the most special times of the year. The tradition of celebrating the Birth of Jesus has its roots in the colonial history of the country. The festive season seems like a timeless weaving of colonial customs and feelings that have transcended history. The smell of cakes, hymns of Carol, cards, Christmas tree has interlaced with the modern tradition that defines December 25th throughout the country.

Here are a few tidbits to give you a glimpse of Christmas celebrations in the bygone era:

1. During the British Colonial period, the smell of fruitcakes, pastries, rose biscuits and Goan port wine filled every house.
2. The social clubs, restaurants were places where people gathered to socialise and share the festive spirit with others. The Viceroy's Ball and the Governor's Christmas Party were places where the elite of the Raj era would gather for merry making.
3. Christmas was the time that called for the family gathering and housewarming parties during the colonial era. Most of the people spent this time of the year with their families. A Christmas tree would be put up and nicely decorated and lit up with presents stacked underneath it.
4. The Christmas feast was an important part of the entire Christmas week celebration. The traditional Christmas dinner included a roast of turkey or goose, plum pudding, roast potatoes, Brussel sprouts, chestnuts and parsnips.
5. Families would exchange gifts. The houses would be decorated with stockings. The children hoped that they would receive a secret gift from the Father Christmas. The gifts were a nice surprise to wake up to on Christmas day.

Christmas celebrations during the bygone era were all about sharing warmth and enjoying the holiday spirit. If you want to experience the spirit of Christmas celebrations and the warmth of the housewarming parties during colonial time, a visit to the Windamere Hotel, the truly authentic British Colonial hotel in India, is a must. Christmas week is celebrated with full vigour and every year, entertainers from both the West End Theatre District in London and other parts of the world, are invited to enchant the audience with their performance. If you are planning to visit Darjeeling during the Christmas week, book your stay at The Windamere Hotel.