Abode, Mumbai

Hotel review

If you can keep your wits about you while others are losing theirs the world is yours" or so the kitsch tube light writing cheekily reminds visitors to Mumbai’s favourite new boutique hotel. And from here the city is indeed your oyster. Designed with design lovers in mind its 20 rooms are all uniquely decorated. Bringing together the best in Indian craftsmanship from the colourful Irani tiles, patterned Ikat fabrics to ‘chick’ blinds and the work of local photographers. Plus, if you like it – buy it – plenty of the items available to purchase. Other fun quirks include in-room roll top baths, Ayurvedic copper water jugs and ceramic tiffin pots. With its personable staff and bijous proportions Abode is a refreshingly intimate affair. No gaudy lobby, overpriced restaurants or obsequious butlers. Instead snack on moreish Bombay street food inspired dishes. Breakfast is served until a civilized 12pm. The café is however open to the public during the day and is unsurprisingly, very popular. There is even a small spa providing traditional treatments, and the team have even collaborated with a Mumbai-based school for the blind, that trains fantastic massage therapists. Treatments and yoga mats are available in room. Guests have access to a nearby gym, or you could just order yourself another pot of chai and get stuck into one of the library’s hundreds of books. Your choice. The hotel's proximity to Mumbai favourites such as The Taj Hotel, Gateway to India, Leopold's Cafe, Colaba Causeway and the stylish boutiques of Churchgate (Bungalow 8 is a particular favourite) mean you are right in the thick of historic, South Mumbai. One of our favourites for its charismatic charm.

Megan Lambert Review published: 10/31/2018