Enjoy the grand opulence of all things luxe this holiday season

With 2022 almost nearing its end, the festive cheer and concomitant urge for wanderlust are building up more than ever. And living the fast-paced, city life has undoubtedly put in place new standards of luxury...making memories and spending quality time with your loved ones. Put simply, savouring the precious moments of life are now the greatest expression of indulgence.

The many plush properties of The Oberoi Group resonate deeply with this spirit, and are just the escape the soul needs...old-world opulence, grandeur, and a holistic retreat.

If you want to lounge in your own slice of heaven, consider The Oberoi in New Delhi. While the iconic property received a stylish modern upgrade in 2018, it still strongly holds onto its storied past. Fun fact: it was the first hotel in the country that housed a 24/7 restaurant. If you are a local, we suggest you check-in to this property, on Dr Zakir Hussain Marg, for a quick staycation. You’ll be spoilt for choice here, at a property that houses 200 thoughtfully-planned rooms and suites. Stretch out on the cosy beds and soak in the crisp sunlight during the day as state-of-the-art air purification systems help you breathe easy...a dose of relaxation awaits you.

Next day, enjoy a hearty breakfast at 360° where the chefs whip up the best European, Japanese, Thai, Oriental, and Indian delicacies. And if you are looking to catch up with your friends, then head to Cirrus 9, a spacious rooftop bar that offers an unparalleled experience with their attentive hospitality and some of the city’s best wine selection. You’ll be greeted by the magnificent views that overlook the UNESCO World Heritage Humayun’s Tomb and the lush golf course greens. As you take mental (or real) photographs, check out their refreshing cocktails and the scrumptious food menu for a delightful end to the day.

Planning to escape the city? Make bookings for The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort. Set in an idyllic location outside Chandigarh, breathtaking views and soothing massages will certainly be the favourite bits of your getaway. In case you’re feeling a bit touristy, the property is close to major attractions such as the famous Rock Gardens and Sukhna Lake. For the adventurous, plan a walk in the woods of the Siswan Forest where you will spot a range of flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Later, laze around in your premier room that has its own, private courtyard where you can dine al fresco. Another option is their royal tents at the edge of the Siswan forest that are comfortably air-conditioned and also feature a luxe bathroom with a standalone bathtub. As the birdsong wishes you in the morning, reboot yourself at their 12,000 sqft spa that has everything from hydrotherapy pools to an infrared sauna, and a host of Ayurvedic treatments that focus on chakra balancing and help you achieve a calm, clear head.

The good part about The Oberoi properties is that they offer something for everyone. And for those who are planning a quintessential family holiday or an escape for two...the country’s first luxury jungle resort, The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort in Ranthambore, is just the place to be.

Designed meticulously to provide tranquility and an overall sense of rejuvenation to its guests, their luxe tents with a plush, king-size bed and a bathtub are surrounded by handmade traditional walls to ensure privacy.

There is even a canopied roof that’s waterproof and heat resistant to keep you protected from the vagaries of nature. If your curious heart isn’t at rest after following the footprints of the Royal Bengal Tigers, book an exclusive package that lets you explore around the Chambal River. Get ready to be fascinated by the Gharial, which happens to be one of the largest, living crocodilians. As you return to restore your spirits after a full day’s expedition, you’ll be welcomed by the warm light of the glowing lanterns. Thanks to the resort, one doesn’t need to put in much thought for an intimate, romantic dinner because the property’s observation tower is just the dreamy destination to savour a private meal under the stars.

If you are, or a friend is, planning to pop the big question, then we recommend The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra. The premier resort is an architectural masterpiece that offers uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal from all its 102 rooms. Inspired by Mughal heritage, the Amarvilas is 600 metres away from the world heritage site. And as you imagine yourself being there while reading this, did you know that The Oberoi Amarvilas has also hosted numerous royals such as the late Princess Diana, Kate Middelton, and Prince William? The property is indeed an epitome of modern Indian luxury but for the ultimate experience, request for the Kohinoor Suite that is named after the 105.6-carat Indian diamond.

The group of hotels has always been known for its grandeur and richness, and a testament to that are The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur and the Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur. The property in Udaipur will make you fall in love with the city of lakes. Set on the banks of Lake Pichola, The Oberoi Udaivilas is more than just another property located at a spectacular location.

Relax in their Mewar-inspired rooms and suites that sport elegant interiors, and enjoy traditional Mewari culture by digging into their extensively prepared meals at Suryamahal and Chandni and Udaimahal. Culinary enthusiasts can enjoy a personal, curated cooking session with the Oberoi masterchefs. You can also book a private boat ride to one of the ghats near the old city. Revel in the fables of royalty as a professional guide takes you through the lesser-known lanes of the city. You can also book a session and enjoy the unique Thikri workshop to witness how beaming glass inlay designs are crafted; these make for wonderful souvenirs for loved ones.

A visit to Rajasthan is incomplete without visiting Jaipur, and The Oberoi Rajvilas will be the perfect host. Blending modern amenities with traditional Rajasthani architecture, this abode offers a soothing, neutral palette and the rooms have private courtyards for moments of quietude. End your vacation with a restful day at the spa with a facial massage and a sensorial treatment to revitalise your senses. Our suggestion: try out the Himalayan Singing Bowl therapy designed to activate your body’s energy centre and put you in a deep, meditative state.

This and more, is what true luxury sounds like, because there’s nothing quite as rewarding as truly getting away.