When making a decision for a family vacation, location when compared to attractions, pool access, room configuration (is it easy for 2 adults and 2 kids to fit comfortably into your room), breakfast quality are more important than star ratings. So what do you really need to look for city-by-city—and what kind of properties are good for the family?
Things to keep in mind when you’re making your reservations for the family.
Don’t take it for granted that all their properties have large rooms — some family/connecting rooms or suites are not available, so book early. Pool access — This is an important one in the warmer months in Rajasthan and is a great way to get children some down time on a day spent sightseeing.
• Less distance to the old city / main attractions — less tired kids on a daily basis. Breakfast that has familiar foods as well as Indian breakfast, particularly when traveling with younger kids that may not eat Rajasthani foods at every meal.
Jaipur: Where to Stay
Check the properties in and around the Civil Lines / C-Scheme location, which will have a fairly good mix of “old city” connectivity (Amber Fort or City Palace) and “modern amenities” connectivity. Here there are several hotels that are haveli style that provide a truly unique family experience of courtyard buildings and traditional decor, but still feature modern facilities such as swimming pools and AC rooms; during the hotter season of the year, this is more important to them than you would think.
Udaipur: Staying at the right places
For families, the slightly higher property rates of properties with access to the lake near Lal Ghat or Hanuman Ghat are worthwhile as walking saves a lot of time each day in commuting to the Pichola lake for the boat trips and to City Palace. A number of mid-range heritage havelis here provide rooms overlooking the lake, with views and atmosphere similar to that of the Udaipur’s ultra-luxury lake palace properties, but at much less expensive rates.
Jodhpur: Where to Stay
For the most memorable stays, look for properties located close to Mehrangarh Fort or with views of the fort – waking up to a view of the fort lit up is a true highlight for many families. The old town zone in the Blue City offers a number of excellent guesthouses (rooftop restaurants are a great place to unwind after a good day out with your family after they have finished their tour).
Jaisalmer: Where to Stay
For a desert safari think of staying a night at a hotel in Jaisalmer city (where you can find the same kind of sights and attractions as in Jaisalmer fort) and a night at a desert camp near the Sam Sand Dunes where you can enjoy the safari and sunset experience. If you have young children, make sure that you read the camp reviews for cleanliness and toilets as standards differ from operator to operator.
Which hotel is the best for families; resort, heritage or standard hotel?
Resorts (such as the Chokhi Dhani properties) are great if you want to come back from the evening with a bunch of activities planned for the kids, without having to organize a separate outing.
Heritage havelis provide a more genuine and personal experience with often superior hospitality for families, but sizes of rooms may vary — always check with the owner regarding the layout of beds prior to booking.
If you’re looking for the safe way to book a hotel, go with a standard hotel brand that provides amenities like a pool, breakfast buffet and kids’ menu.
Booking Tip
For peak season travel (December-January) please reserve family rooms at least 6-8 weeks ahead of time – family-configured rooms are in strong demand and sell out before the standard rooms. Our team at Aryan Services can do the leg work for you and shortlist hotel options based on your family’s requirements (size, pool, location etc) that you can afford.