Where is this place?
The White Klove is strategically located in Pahar Ganj. It is in close proximity to the Metro station, the railway station and not too far from the airport either. It is apparently (because I'm no authority on the star ranking methodology) a 3 star hotel that offers a business friendly environment.
What took me to The White Klove?
I was on a long extravagant travel and shopping spree in Shimla and Chandigarh. I was in Shimla for a friend's wedding (read as- a Very expensive holiday). I had to catch a train early morning on the 10th of November from Chandigarh to Delhi. Being the spontaneous traveler that I am, on the night of 9thNovember, I realized that I had no place to spend the night of 10th, before my flight on 11th. I was low on funds, time and options. And so, I opened up the trusted makemytrip.com and searched for an affordable, safe and well situated option. That's how I found the White Klove.
The good?
The biggest plus is the fact that It featured on a trusted site and had some good reviews (would mine be any different? Read on to find out!!) The location is quite strategic. There were a bunch of international travelers also residing in the area. I'm not sure if that's necessarily a good sign, but it's something. The people were pleasant and keen to please (but isn't that true of all hotels?). The building looks nice enough, they have a travel guide and help desk in case one is interested in exploring cities and sites nearby. I didn't try the complimentary breakfast as I had a flight to catch so no comments! They boast about having all the expected amenities and services- wifi (i didn't try), the usual tea/ coffee kit, minibar, flat-screen TV, fancy little bathroom and a comfortable bed. For 2 K a night, not bad at all, right?
The bad?
The biggest turn off was the 400 meter walk from the metro station to the hotel itself. For a hotel that is expected to be business friendly, the only businesses I could spot en route where vegetable vendors, liquor stores and the small grocery depots. The roads were abuzz with activity much like the streets of Chandini Chowk. The one thing that made me almost turn around and head back to the metro station was the landmark that the gentleman at the White Klove had recommended I look for,- a certain Imperial Cinema. It looked deserted, dilapidated and possibly haunted. Alongside that, stood the White Klove. The exteriors were decent but the lobby was spooky! There was something about the silent lobby, odd furniture,and one-too-many statuettes which adorned the interiors that kept giving me the feeling that someone was watching me! The front desk processes were slightly technologically challenged and it was a good 25 odd minutes before I was on my way to my room. The room was alright apart from a few things. Firstly, there was no means of locking the bathroom door- which was okay in my case but not if I would've traveled with friends! Secondly, there was still old, unused water in the electric kettle with interesting flora and minerals floating around- which was fine because I don't care for tea/coffee made with milk powder. And finally, the thing I was NOT OK with- there was a glass window like thing in the top left corner of one of the walls. Anyone on the outside of the building (assuming they had a rope or that there was a ledge outside on the 2nd floor) could have balcony seats to the show in the room. CREEPY! The first thing I did was to grab a newspaper from the reception, buy cello-tape and block that darned thing. Apart from that, not too bad!
The ugly?
So here it is- The ugly truth. During the 10 odd hours I spent there, I couldn't to get to the airport. The experience wasn't all that unpleasant and a hell of a lot better than what most places will offer you for 2000 rupees. Staff was friendly and helpful. Transport facilities and grocery and stationary (for the cello-tape) stores were abundant. I suggest you go to the White Klove, but ONLY with an open mind and in the spirit of adventure. If the stay is not the heart of your visit to New Delhi, you won't mind the place one bit. But it's no Radisson and don't you forget it!
More info?
1. HotelsOne
2. MakeMytrip
3. Their site- Their website is quite nice. The ground reality? I guess you will have to go find out for yourselves won't you?
Disclaimer: This is just my personal opinion so bear with me folks!
