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Even the most jaded visitor to one of India's dullest cities will be bowled over by Chennai's newest hotel, a dazzling contemporary space that could easily occupy the pages of Wallpaper. Guest rooms are a fabulous blend of comfort, style, and functionalism -- for a mere $10 more, opt for a luxury room. Guest rooms follow the same contemporary-chic design of the public areas, making up for the lack of views with thoughtful, artistic touches, and the beds are tremendously comfortable. If you don't get a room here, be sure to pop in for a bite or a drink -- this is where you'll find the best nightlife option in the city, the Leather Bar. The fabulous 24-hour eatery off the lobby, 601, is recommended as much for its contemporary design as for its unusual, varied menu -- order meze platters and seafood tapas to share, or opt for the fabulous seared fish kebab, prepared in the tandoor oven and served with a garlic sauce. Still in its early stages when we visited, the Park has since added a rooftop health club and spa, as well as a Thai restaurant. (Note: If you're not a fan of modern design, you might be more comfortable at the recently overhauled Welcomgroup Chola Sheraton, which currently charges a similar rate.)

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