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This quintessential Kolkata monument is the city's top accommodations option and one of the best hotels in all of India. Elegant, with regal old-world charm, its guest rooms draw ambassadors, diplomats, heads of state, and royalty (although the Hollywood charity crowd head for The Park). Superior guest rooms (city or garden view) are marvelous; ask for room no. 432 if you want the biggest of the lot. If you want a private balcony, book one on the third floor. In the central courtyard, you can sip gin and tonics around the best pool in town. And for inspiration about what to do when you run out of sights and restaurants, speak to the head concierge, Amitava Sarkar, whose knowledge and enthusiasm will deepen your appreciation of the city.

© 2005, Wiley Publishing, Inc.