Why Starottel is the best business hotel in Ahmedabad?

All business travellers would vouch for the importance of choosing the best hotel on your business trips. A business-friendly hotel not only saves you from last minute hiccups but also gives you peace of mind after tense business negotiations and long conferences. All these problems are compounded when you visit subcontinent especially India, for business trips due to its noisy, humid, and chaotic life styles.

Ahmedabad is known as "Where business is a way of life". It is considered one of the richest and most business-friendly destination in India, ahead of Delhi and Mumbai. Meaning, most hotels are pre-booked and it is difficult to find hotel rooms in peak seasons during many festivals Ahmedabad city hosts during the year.

If you’re coming to Ahmedabad for business, family functions or just leisure trips than choosing a good hotel becomes essential. One of the best Hotel in Ahmedabad is Starottel Ahmedabad whose tag is "Stay Embraced" that stays true to its words by embracing every traveller.

Centrally Located:

The Starottel hotel offers FIVE STAR luxuries and located in the Heart of the city on Ashram road which is only 8Km International and Domestic Airport. Its proximity to the Airport, Railway Station and Bus Station makes it a paramount property for people visiting the Business capital of Gujarat where Vibrant Gujarat, the name given to a biennial investors' summit held by the government of Gujarat takes place.

Spacious Rooms with a View:

Located in the heart of the city, Starottel is the perfect choice when you want a grand stay and a welcoming ambience. It offers three categories of rooms to choose from.

 Rooms are spacious and vibrant, with a touch of elegance and sophistication that comes in three categories like Deluxe, Premium and Club which offers facilities like Air conditioning, Flat screen tv, mini bar, Free Wi-Fi, Laundry facilities and much more.

In-house Licensed Liquor Store:

Gujarat is officially a ‘Dry State’ meaning consumption or sale of alcohol is prohibited and punishable act by the law. However, the government has relaxed certain norms for foreign tourists and business travellers from other states to consume alcohol in 5 Star Hotel Premises that are under supervision of licensed vendors.

Startottel is one of the only 7 hotels that are permitted to serve alcohol making it a hit among tourist and business visitors.

Delicious Food:

After a hard day’s work, food is what will sooth your experience. And Superior food quality is a necessity while travelling. Starottel offers Local Gujarati, Indian, Continental and Italian cuisine and delicacies from all around the world at its 24 Hours open multi-cuisine restaurant, Cafe 15A. Moreover, they’ve very recently launched one of the best Roof top Restaurant in Ahmedabad.

State-of-the-Art Gym:

If you are a fitness enthusiast, you will love the facilities that the hotel offers, such as, the fully equipped gym, Rooftop swimming pool, Spa at Aurum8 a World of wellness.

Outdoor Swimming Pool:

The hotel also offers an outdoor swimming pool that refreshes you after a long day of outing and work. With its regular cleansing of water and filtering facility, the swimming pool is one of the best in Ahmedabad city.

Business Venue:

The Hotel also offers separate indoor places for Weddings and events like Business meetings which can accommodate 700 people in its biggest Ballroom of 3200 Sq Ft. They also throw their best banquet food and services for the room.

Other facilities:

At the last hotel also offers services like Valet parking, 24 Hr front desk, Wake up calls, Wheelchair access, Cafe, Free breakfast, Smoking rooms and BBQ facilities along with host of other facilities.

Ahmedabad is in the list of Heritage cities of UNESCO. Hotel staff will be more than happy to help you explore the heritage city itinerary which takes you up close with the cultural essence of “Walled city”.

Conclusion:

Staying at Starottel offers not only these but also huge Cost Savings. This should be the single biggest factor to attract long term business travellers. With their support and flexible Check-in Check-out facilities, the starottel is a hit with business travellers both national and international businessmen.

Why stay at other hotels when Starottel Ahmedabad offers luxurious facility at affordable prices. The hotel offers a friendly environment for Families visiting and a safely environment for business women travelling solo at Ashram Road, the road which is the major financial hub of the city and also has destinations that attract tourists.

Events In Ahmedabad You Should Attend

If you’re in India and want to visit a place that is virtually in festival mode year around, then you must head towards Ahmedabad.

Ahmedabad and Gujarat boasts of most number of Non-Resident Indians across the world coming to enjoy endless seasons of festivities and attend business conferences to develop their businesses.

Ahmedabad is an ancient city with both classic and modern architecture and heritage. It is one of the fastest growing cities in the world and 5th biggest city in India. It is said that “Entrepreneurship runs in the blood of Amdavadis.” It is such a vibrant city that there’s always something happening in the city both at the business front as well as spiritual levels. There are many things you can do on your trip to Ahmedabad city.

1) International kite festival

The festival of Uttarayan (Makar Sankranti) is a uniquely Gujarati phenomenon, and people in the city are crazy about it. The city comes to a standstill on these 2 days, when the skies over most cities of the state fill with kites.

The Ahmedabad city hosts annual Kite Festival on 10th to 13th January every year and participants from across the globe throng to the city to take a part in this prestigious tournament and to win high-stake prizes. Every year the kite festival has diversified by adding value to event with Laser and Sound shows, kite making workshops and more.

It is advisable to book your stay at Starottel Ahmedabad in advance if you’re coming in the month of January as it also coincide with yearly NRI wedding season.

2) Vibrant Gujarat Summit

Vibrant Gujarat Summit echoes entrepreneur spirit and is attended by who’s who of the business world and most business houses of India and government functionaries of the globe. It also hosts PM of India, Sh. Narendra Modi and his cabinet colleagues and was attended by Secretary of the US and his business entourage making it one the most important business conference in the world.

3) International Flower show

International Flower show Is very popular with people since it started in 2012 as an eco-tourist attraction. It is open from 9 Am to 10 Pm and shows thousands of fauna in varieties of species. The venue is the famous River Front adjacent to Ashram road where you can find some of the best hotels for stay in Ahmedabad.  

4) Ahmedabad Food Fest

Ahmedabad is a paradise for food lovers. It has theme based restaurants that serve sumptuous food and cuisines from world over to locals and tourists. The fest contains gourmet dishes, exotic cuisines, festival recipes, international kitchens all coming together for some fun filled food fusion. Satisfy your sugar rush, enjoy a crispy savoury or just try it all at food bank! With expected footfalls of over 20,000 food lovers, the Ahmedabad Food Fest is a promotion in itself!

In a recently published survey there are almost 8900 restaurants in and around the city you can visit and the list keeps expanding. There are a few places where you can enjoy some of the best food in the city in luxurious restaurants.   

5) Navratri Celebration

Last but not the least; Navratri is the most important festival for Gujaratis. It contains nine nights of dancing on folk, Bollywood and now even international pop songs. It is also a religious fest where people fast and worship goddess Durga in her purest form. It is both a festival to enjoy the local culture and get some divinity to find your inner self.

Male and Female of all the ages wear traditional clothing like shimmering gujarati chaniya choli, Gamthi, Sarees and glittering dresses and costumes and it is followed by midnight snacks of all the different cuisines. Ask your friends to pre-book your entry to some of the clubs and if you want to go local head in a gated community to feel the warmth and hospitality of Local Indian Gujarati people.  

Don’t Miss…Go and dance like you never did.

This is a very short list and Ahmedabad hosts many other festivals, business summits and seminars on many other topics. I recommend you to pre-book your stay at a good hotel in Ahmedabad before arrival to enjoy this maximum city.

Why Ahmedabad is On Unesco Heritage Cities List?

UNESCO consists of almost 250member cities which are declared as Heritage cities.  And excitingly Ahmedabad is one of them. The only city of India to have made into this prestigious list beating Delhi and Mumbai.  

The history of Ahmedabad goes back to 1411 AD. It is said that when the king Ahmed Shah was travelling with his cavalcade he saw a rabbit chasing away a band of dogs, then the king thought if a rabbit chases away a dog on this land, certainly people living here will be as fierce as this rabbit and he founded the city Ahmedabad also called Amdavad locally and It is also one of the safest cities for Solo female travellers.

There are hundreds of 'pols' that capture the essence of community living is called “Walled City”, and numerous sites associated with Mahatma Gandhi who lived in the city from 1915 to 1930. Let’s look at the sites which helped it become the first heritage city in India.

1. Sidi Saiyad's masjid - The mosque is entirely arcuate and is famous for beautifully carved ten stone latticework windows (jalis) on the side and rear arches. It is carved artistically and elaborately on sand stone which makes it almost the only masonry carved so delicately to resemble a tree. It is also a symbol of city’s logo and other government symbols.
   

   
2. Jhoolta (Shaking) Minarets: This is a wondrous construction dating back to 15th century. When you climb the winding staircases to the upper floors you will have a feeling that the tower is shaking just like it would shake in an earthquake. It is a mystery to many architects are trying to uncover and must visit place for tourists.
   

   
3. Teen Darwaja - It is a historical gateway on the east of Bhadra Fort. It is associated with historical as well as legendary events of city’s illustrious part. It has been recently renovated with beautiful plazas, shops and fountains making it the place to visit for tourists. You can also catch a heritage walk or free bus ride from this location to visit other heritage places within the walled city.
   

   
4. Akshardham Temple- This famous temple is known for its architecture which is built to last a 1000 year. It’s been built without any modern equipment, concrete or even nut bolts, with hand eye and stone coordinating to create a 340 ft high temple made from red sandstone. Though, it is 20 miles from the city centre, it is a must visit place for tourists to explore local culture.
   

   
5. Ancient site at Lothal - Lothal is one of the most prominent cities of the ancient Indus valley civilization. Though, it is mainly ruins, you will get a sense of what ancient people achieved what modern cities lack. There’s also a black buck sanctuary nearby to explore some wildlife.
   

   
6. Adalaj Stepwell- This is an intricately carved stepwell just outside the city dates to 12th century. It was built to store water for near around villages as the area remained dry for months and years and frequent droughts.
   

   

There are many other places in the walled city and outside of it which show opulence and aura of the city with its rich history and unique merchant culture making it one of the best business destinations in India.

If you’re travelling to Ahmedabad, Gujarat then it is advised to book your hotel in advance as there are very few good hotels with great amenities. Choose a hotel that is centrally located, accessible by both Airport and Railway Station and have rooftop restaurant to enjoy the view and serve delicious food round the clock.

We strongly recommend you to checkout Starottel Ahmedabad, as your preferred destination hotel both for business and personal travelling plan. There are many other facilities like Spa, Cabs, Outdoor Swimming pool, Gym and many more to keep you entertained and feel like a king.

Safety Tips for Solo Women Travel

The world is not a secure place, well not always and everyone needs to take care of themselves and especially for Women who are traveling Solo. The advent of 21st century has brought some equality between men and women.

They have to compete for business and jobs and to do that frequent travels are essential. Men, as usual, find it easy to travel and find places to rest and eat but problems are more complex for women, as certain communities and cultures are not yet open to seeing women travel solo either for business or leisure.  

The media has incited fear among many women travelers in India, though it is misplaced, certain checks are necessary for every traveling female. First and foremost is to find a good Women Friendly Hotel that feels like at home, feels safe and provide all the facilities women want. If you’re traveling anywhere in the world or India, you could use these tips on safety.

1) Do your research

As we know, India is a massive, traditionally diverse and ancient country. Knowing beforehand as much as u can about the culture of the place you are going to visit can be a boon for you. It will not only help you mix with the locals but also help you learn new things about other cultures and languages.

For eg. In Rajasthan, if you wear tank tops and shorts in temples and other religious places, it is not advisable. However, in certain parts of Delhi like Gurugram, Rohini etc. wearing revealing western clothing is much more acceptable.

2) Be confident and respond firmly

Body language has an important role. If you are quite confident you are unlikely to attract unwanted attention. Responding to cat calling or harsh comments about your dress at certain places will invite trouble for a lone female. An advice, wait for an opportunity to inform authorities and police to report trouble. They’re really women friendly in India, even you’ll find most men will help you by going out of their way.

3) Strategies for using transportation

 There are a couple of strategies for traveling at night. Like, plan your travel in advance so to avoid late night drives and expensive cabs. Try to have someone meet you at the train station or at the airport if possible to save both your time and money. Many business hotels offer free cabs to women passenger for pickups and drops, use it to your advantage. Always inform your friends and family where you are going and stay connected on mobile phone.

Note- Before you enter a rickshaw or cab act as if you are speaking to someone and loudly call out the plate number.

4) Always keep your Mobile Phone Handy

Carrying a phone is both good for safety and convenience. Also, keep it charged all the time to avoid drained batteries. Keeping a mobile handy with speed dials will save you from trouble and come handy in emergencies like missing a train, bus or losing your way in an unknown city. You can utilize apps like Ola and Uber that keeps your loved ones in the loop of your journeys and provide emergency services. Google Maps and SOS numbers will keep your loved ones informed, always.

Note- Use location based apps that ping your location frequently to few numbers, it helps massively.

5) Avoid Mingling with Complete Strangers
Taking a lift or a joy ride with a stranger can become a nightmare. In a new place where you’re unsure of local topography and mind sets, avoiding complete strangers to share information or travel will go a long way in ensuring a safety. So much so that, it is recommended that you avoid eating and drinking opened food offered by strangers and even certain people while traveling.

If you’re a solo female traveler, coming to Ahmedabad then, Starottel Ahmedabad is the place for you to stay. Offering one of the best roof top restaurant, spa, outdoor rooftop swimming pool and women friendly staff and cabs.

5 Business Travel Tips to Make Most With Your Family on Your Next Holiday

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."-St. Augustine

What matters the most is your family and the time you spend with them are memories and experiences that count in the end and not the amount of money you’ve earned. And as we see every day, long-distance travels to faraway places for days and weeks are becoming a common occurrence, people are unable to spend desired quality time with their families and spouses.

Most people do take out some time in a year to spend with their families on festivals and occasions. But for frequent travellers, businessmen and executives who are on the job at all times, taking time out from work for a short trip, sometimes seem like an impossible luxury.

Sometimes, to maintain a work-life balance, taking your family with you on a business trip can become a much-needed refreshment for you. But, before you do that, read these 5 tips to make most of your bleisure trip with your family on your next holiday.

1. Plan in Advance: You will need to plan for your work, meetings and most importantly your stay in a family friendly business hotel before you embark on your journey. Your family’s stay needs to be comfortable, and enjoyable when you’re attending your business meetings.
2. Search for places to visit nearby: Create an itinerary for your family and especially kids to do in your absence. You can look at things to do on a business trip and create a list of places your family can visit in nearby locations. Getting them busy while you’re working will get them creative. So, by day end when you arrive, you’ll have plenty to talk about.
3. Keep a tab on Costs: Taking family on a business trip can become expensive if you don’t keep an eye on spending. In general, costly shopping sprees or late-night rendezvous with colleagues and friends will burn your pockets. Also, check your companies travel policies to know which costs you can claim and which you shouldn’t.
4. Keep a Balance: Prepare a schedule in advance about when you can and when you won’t be able to accompany your family. This helps you in planning your trips, business meetings and keeps you family members aware about your priorities and what to expect from you at each hour of each day. Setting your priorities will help you focus on work at hand and will keep your bosses in good humour.
5. Go for Experience: Dispel the myths to your family and especially other half that business trip is just a swish traveling and luxury accommodations for leisure. They will come to experience a new you which they wouldn’t see every day, the hardworking parent/ husband/ partner. This experience will change the way they look at you and even improve your relationship.
6. Plan the Weekends: You can also cover weekends to ensure that you can travel with your family to enjoy maximum on those 4 days and still save costs.

You are the best decision maker for your family. So, choose very wisely on which days you can join them and when you have to visit them. Also, choosing a business and family friendly hotel like Starottel can go a long way in ensuring enjoyment with your family while working.

Places You Can Cover With Business Trip to Ahmedabad

India is home to many business HQs, Industrial estates, SEZ’s and cities that offer business opportunities and bleisure activities for all who come to visit. The best of those cities is Ahmedabad also known locally as Amdavad. It is one of the top business destinations in India. In fact, Ahmedabad is rated as the safest and economical of all urban business trips for both national and international business travelers.

Ahmedabad in Gujarat is the next bleisure destination for top executives, merchants and entrepreneurs of all industries from tech to chemical and from import-export to defense. With its mind-boggling diversity, places, colors, smells and a cocktail of living styles, it has everything to offer to anyone who wants to explore both within and outside.

Sabarmati Ashram: The place from where Mahatma Gandhi started his spiritual and freedom movements for India. This is a place where you can see why he is called the father of the nation and his following in world leaders. The Sabarmati Ashram has a sprawling library, museum and school where underprivileged children study, play and craft items you can buy as memorabilia. You can enjoy the evening light and sound show on the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi. The Ashram is 10 minute walk from the Hotel and 2 minutes by Auto (Tuk-Tuk) or a Cab.

Bhadra Fort & Teen Darwaja: This place is as old as the city. It houses temple, hawkers and street shops where you can get hand-crafted merchandises at great prices. It has recently been redeveloped with fountains, plaza and other amenities to increase tourist activities. Highly recommended for buying economical souvenirs, clothes and dry snacks at the end of your business trip. The hawker’s plaza is roughly 5 kms from Starottel and you can hail an auto, cab or BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) bus from the hotel.

Sabarmati Riverfront: This place is like a Thames-walk in London. It is 8 mile long walking-track along the river Sabarmati. It really looks great in the night with its lighting and families coming to enjoy the evening. Both cleanliness of water and pavements make Sabarmati Riverfront a good place for evening stroll or a morning jog. Starottel is situated right next to riverfront. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the riverfront while taking a dip in our rooftop swimming pool.

Law Garden- This is a park that turns into a shopping and food lover’s paradise in the evening. You can get hand-crafted fabrics, dresses and local traditional clothes like (Sarees, Chaniya cholis etc.) at bargain prices. With its wide range of food items available this place is a mecca for tourists who want to see traditional Indian clothes and eat local food. The Hotel being in the center of the city, Law Garden is not far from the Hotel. Cabs and autos can take you there in under 20 minutes whereas on a BRTS bus it would be a little longer as you will have to change buses.

AlphaOne/Ahmedabad One Mall- Want to go Uber in shopping then this place is for you. This place is home to international brands like AND, Tommy Hilfiger, Promod, FCUK, GAP etc. along with other Indian retail chains like Pantaloons, Hypermarket, Levis and many other. It also houses a toy shop from Hamleys and a Body Shop. This mall also has a Multi-plex cinema and a food court on 5th floor that offers a wide choice of cuisines to choose from. The mall has been renamed to Ahmedabad One Mall after being acquired by Blackstone Group.

Starottel is a luxurious business hotel located on Ashram road which is the central business district of Ahmedabad. The hotel is not only close to Ahmedabad Airport and Railway Station but also to Commercial Districts (Ashram Road, C.G. Road), Shopping Malls, Street Shopping Hubs and Tourist Attractions. It has 2 of the best restaurants Café 15A and Roof Top Restaurant that cater mouthwatering Local and Continental food. Staying at this business hotel is a bargain as it also offers Roof Top Swimming Pool along with Gym, Liquor Shop and Spa for a business traveler to relax along with many other facilities included in the night package.

If you’re coming to Ahmedabad for either business trip or family trip, staying at Starottel located in the central part of the city is both convenient and economical as it will help you save both the journey time and money.

** Bleisure is a term for Business and Leisure coined by frequent globe-trotting business travelers that like to enjoy their business trips and explore surroundings.