Usha Uthup

Usha Uthup: It is hard for me to pick any one hotel — I have enjoyed far too many wonderful hotels! Magical is the moment when I have finished with a really hectic show and I get back to find a room that is really comfortable. The Taj Group has some of the best hotels, especially the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai, and the Taj Land’s End. That said, I have had great happiness spending nights at The Orchid in Mumbai. So, yes, that is one of my greatest favourites. 

OT: Last visited?

Usha Uthup: I don’t really remember. I am travelling all the time. I love staying in hotels vis-à-vis people who say, “You know, I hate going into hotels.” I love a good, clean, comfortable bed, a terrific bath. I always love staying at The Orchid.

OT: The experience?

Usha Uthup: The Orchid’s location near the Mumbai airport makes it very, very convenient. It’s not only about spending one night here or there. It’s about convenience, service, comfort, luxury, indulgence, the whole experience, and The Orchid has it all.

The one thing I don’t like about some hotels is these new kinds of bathrooms, which have everything open, and you can look into the cubicle. I am not one of those people who can share my privacy with anybody else, no matter how much I love them, and I don’t think it’s romantic. I need a good bath. I’m not fond of tubs, actually, I prefer a good shower. So, The Orchid is just right for me. And their service is something else.

OT: The food?

OT: The hotel’s ‘USP’?

Usha Uthup: It is welcoming — it has its arms wide open. I think that’s very important. Connectivity, rapport and follow-up.

OT: Repeat visit?

Usha Uthup: Of course, I will. When people ask me, “What’s your address?”, I always say, “My suitcase.” I used to say home is where the sari is. So, yes, I’ll go back soon. 

The information

Location: Nehru Road, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai (next to the domestic airport)

Accommodation: 245 rooms and suites

Tariff: From Rs 10,000

Contact: 022-26164040, www.orchidhotel.com