Hotels

The Leela Palace Chennai

Drawn from the inspiration of Chettinad Dynasty, the architecture of the hotel exudes regal opulence and is the first and only seafront five-star hotel in Chennai. Adyar Seaface, MRC Nagar, Phone: 91 44 33661234, No. of Rooms: 305

The Gateway Hotel –Vivanta ITC Expressway

First choice for smart travellers seeking crisp, hasle-free and contemporary experience on the IT Expressway 308, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Ratha Tek, Meadows Road, Sholinganallur, Phone: 91 44 66802500 No. of rooms: 204

ITC Grand Chola

Experience an era of magnificence and grandeur of Southern India’s Golden Age in ITC Grand Chola which expresses the glory of the Chola Dynasty in a modern retelling. 63, Mount Road, Guindy, Phone: 91 44 22200000, No. of Rooms: 600

Taj Coromandel

Offering a fusion of rich, South Indian design cues and classic European elegance, the Taj Coromandel is a welcoming spot for both business and leisure. 37, Mahatma gandhi Road, Nungambakkam, Phone: 91 44 66002827, No. of Rooms: 212

Hyatt regency Chennai

Luxurious accommodation, diverse event spaces spread across multiple levels, splendid recreation facilities including spa, fitness centre and pool makes this the perfect destination for all business meetings, social gatherings and events. 365, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Phone: 91 44 61001234, No. of Rooms: 327

Taj Club House

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, amenities and world class restaurants, Taj Club House is the perfect destination for families and corporate clients to host conferences and get togethers in luxury and comfort. 2, Club house road, Anna Salai, Phone: 91 44 66313131, No. of Rooms: 229

Crown Plaza Chennai Adyar Park

One of the finest living and dining destinations and long standing iconic landmark of Chennai pampers you with their renowned butler and concierge services. TTK Road, Alwarpet, Phone: 91 44 24994101, No. of Rooms: 287

Le Royal Meridien

Luxury rooms, 12 meeting spaces, restaurants serving Indian, Continental, Chinese, SE Asian and Mediterranean cuisines, and spacious pubs with dance floors truly blends businesss with leisure 1,GST Road, St. Thomas Mount, Phone: 91 44 22314343, No. of Rooms: 240

Hilton Chennai

Convieniently located within a 15 minute drive from the airport and the Chennai Trade Centre, Hilton is fully equipped with a business center, Award-winning cuisine with five restaurants and bars including 24-hour café 124/1, 100 feet Road, Ekkaduthangal, Phone: 91 44 22255555, No. of Rooms: 204

Taj Connemara

Chennai city’s only heritage hotel, built in 1854 is now infused with a fresh new vibe that complements tradition 2, Binny Road, Anna Salai, Phone: 91 44 66000000, No. of Rooms: 150

Feathers – A Radha Hotel

Experience the luxury of star hotel located conveniently near Chennai Trade Centre, Airport with spacious rooms. 4/129, Mount Poonamallee Road, Manappakkam, Phone: 91 44 66776969 No of Rooms: 186

Park Hyatt

Luxury Business Hotel offers discerning business and leisure travellers an intimate stay experience with all amenities and a rooftop infinity pool with stunning views of the city. 39, Velachery Main Road, Guindy, Phone: 91 44 71771234, - 044 22301234 No. of Rooms: - 200

The Park

A perfect destination for business travellers or leisure holidays with cutting edge technology and unique entertainment concepts 601, Anna Salai, Chennai, Phone: 91 44 42676000, No. of Rooms: 214

Travel Diary of Madras Checks: from Madrasapattinam to Manhattan.

- Ruth John

Madras Checks, the vibrant and earthy handloom has traveled a long way around the world. Made from the soft fibres from the “tip-skin” of native trees, this fabric was initially worn by the peasants in the 12th-century fishing village, Madrasapattinam(Madras). The 36″ wide square handkerchiefs, block printed with bright colored check patterns, were called lungis, garments tied around the waist and extending till the ankle..

The arrival of the British colonizers in the 17th century, caused this fabric to be mass-produced and exported to other colonies. It was called ‘Injri’ meaning ‘Real India’ in Africa and had different uses in different parts of the continent. In Nigeria, it became a vital part of the customs of the Kalabari, a small group of Ijo ethnic people. It was their ceremonial attire, a gift for new babies or was given as a gift to the families of deceased loved ones. In other parts of West Africa like the Gold Coast and Ghana, brides had their gowns tailored from Madras Checks in the early 18th and 19th Centuries.

Another name given to Madras is Bleeding Madras. In 1958, American textile importer, William Jacobson, travelled to Bombay to trade with Captain C.P. Nair, an exporter of Madras.

While there, he was captivated by the bright and vivid patterned plaid which smelled heavily of oils and vegetable colours. Despite the warnings of possible bleeding of colours due to the use of heavy detergents and washing machines in America, Johnson went ahead with the deal and sold them in the States. When complaints arose, a stroke of marketing genius turned this flaw into its biggest selling point. They began advertising it as an ‘Authentic Indian Madras’ that is ‘guaranteed to bleed’. It was sought after by the American elites and became a sign of novelty and affluence. Later throughout the 90s and 2000s, Madras Checks made its way into ramp walks and fashion magazines around the globe.

From its humble origins on the shores of Madras, this mesmerising piece of fabric has come a long way to be cherished and loved by many across the globe. This timeless piece has been acknowledged by many fashion houses like Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Hermes. A saree, a suit, or evening gown, Madras Checks is perfect for all occasions and is a must-have in every wardrobe.

Novotel Chennai Chamiers Road

Expeience the bright and spacious business class hotel located in the heart of the city with spacious meeting area lounge bar, allday diner and truly blends business, leisure or family holidays 11, Chamiers Road, Nandanam, Phone: 91 44 24302333 No of Rooms: 108

Hotel Novotel

Enjoy a luxury stay with flawless service with entertainment, relaxation, fitness and an extensive array of culinary delights and signature cocktail A charming beach resort with renewed cottages and villas, safe private beach, nouvelle restaurants, a high energy bar, and a luxurious spa will make your stay even more memorable! 2, Covelong Beach, ECR, Phone: 91 44 67413333 No. of Rooms: 152

The Rain Tree

A convenient destination, for corporate travellers, with unparalleled opulence and luxury and easy access to local attractions and entertainment 636, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Phone: 91 44 28309999, No. of Rooms: 230

Plot No.36, Old Mahabalipuram Road, Egattur, Phone: 91 44 66545454 No of Rooms: 180

The Accord Metropolitan

A premier business hotel in Chennai with superior business facilities; alongwith entertainment and shopping avenues in proximity. 35, GN Chetty Rd, T. Nagar, Phone: 91 44 43911000, No. of Rooms: 162

Radisson Blue GRT

Enjoy access to a deluxe Business Centre, private Business Club Lounge, well-equipped fitness studio, complimentary airport transfers and, an array of services through their on-site guest communication service 531, GST Road, Saint Thomas Mount, Phone: 91 44 22310101, No. of Rooms: 101

Taj Fisherman’s Cove, Resort & Spa

The Rain Tree

Contemporary guest rooms and suites with exclusive gym access, an all-inclusive business center, and on site restaurants and bars for casual business meetings 120, St. Mary’s Road, Alwarpet, Phone: 91 44 42252525, No. of Rooms: 48

Ramada Chennai

Located just 10 minutes away from the Central Railway Station this is an ideal retreat for corporates, trendy travellers or families looking to discover the city Gandhi Irwin Bridge Road, Next to CMDA Building, Egmore, Phone:91-44 46104777 No. of Rooms: 113

Welcom by ITCHotel

Located close to the US Embassy, this hotel offers an all day business centre, fitness studio, beauty salon, shopping arcade and currency exchange 13, Cathedral Road, Gopalapuram, Phone: 91 44 28110101, No. of Rooms: 90

Novotel Chennai OMR

With an ambience that amanates grandeur and comfort, Novotel Chennai OMR, strategically set amidst the city’s commercial action, is the ideal abode for corporates and families alike Rajiv Gandhi Salai, (OMR), IT Expressway, Sholinganallur, Phone: 91 44 66444777

The Trident

The closest luxury hotel near the airport with a wide choice of wellness and recreation facilities to unwind after a busy day. 1/24, GST Road, Meenambakkam, Phone: 91 44 22344747, No. of Rooms: 167

Hotel Green Park

Well furnished and comfortable rooms and suites offering a host of complimentary services for the discerning business traveller 183, NSK Salai, Vadapalani, Phone: 91 44 66515151, No. of Rooms: 171

Courtyard by Marriott

A fresh and stimulating retreat in the heart of the city makes it an ideal choice for business or leisure travel 564, Anna Salai, Teynampet, Phone: 91 44 66764000, No. of Rooms: 236

The Westin Chennai

A Corporate hotel with a high quality luxury experience and friendly service also a quick drive away to IT 154, Velacherry Main Road, Velacherry, Phone: 91 44 66333777

Aloft

Bright n spacious rooms n suites to cater to the needs of the corporate traveler with added facilities of Lounge, Bar, and Snack Bar 102, Rajiv Gandhi Salai, OMR, Sholinganallur, Phone: 91 44 45925500, No. of Rooms: 129

Clarion

Revamped into a boutique hotel,

Clarion provides luxurious stay with range of modern Food & Beverage facilities and personalized services 25, Dr.Radhadakrishnan Road, Mylapore, Phone: 91 44 28472211, No. of Rooms: 130

Grand by GRT Hotels

A preferred hotel for business mixed with leisure; featuring rooms, clubs, and suites designed around sheer luxury 120, Sir thyagaraya road, T. Nagar, Phone: 91 44 28150500, No. of Rooms: 133

The Residency Towers

Well appointed rooms & suites, array of relaxation treatments, conference facilities, chill out bar, and multicuisine restaurants are bound to make your sojourn a grand one 115, Sir Thyagaraya Road, T. Nagar, Phone: 91 44 28156363, No. of Rooms: 174

Quality Inn Sabari

Discover hospitality and quality service with comforts that make Sabari truly a home away from home! 29, Thirumalai Pillai Road, T. Nagar, Phone: 91 44 28343030, 49043030 No. of Rooms: 72

Savera Hotel

Settle back in poise in a place that radiates calming vibes with its bar, restaurants, cafe, banquets, fitness, spa and more 146, Dr. Radhakrishnan Road, Mylapore, Phone: 91 44 28114700, No. of Rooms: 230

Ambassador Pallava

A warm n welcoming place to enjoy exceptional facilities, and share a slice of the Pallava history with their antique old charm themed décor 30, Montieth Road, Egmore, Phone: 91 44 28554476, No. of Rooms: 102

The Pride Hotel

Aesthetically designed rooms with an exclusive 24 hour coffee shop, multi-cuisine restaurant, bar, banquet halls, board room, business center, health club, swimming pool and more 216, EVR Periyar Salai, Kilpauk, Phone: 91 44 43989898, No. of Rooms: 115

Radha Regent

A premium hotel renowned for its unflinching traditional hospitality, grand infrastructure, serene ambience, and luxurious interiors 171, Jawaharlal Nehru salai, Arumbakkam, Phone: 91 44 66778899, No. of Rooms: 91

The Residency

Plush beds, relaxing interiors, and state of the art facilities, together with the service of hospitable staff, ensure your stopover is pleasurable 49, GN Chetty Road, T. Nagar, Phone: 91 44 28253434, No. of Rooms: 112

Raj Park

Relax in the middle of Chennai’s most happening malls, restaurants, and nightlife; where commercial centres, consulates, and the beach, are just a few kilometres away! 180, TTK Road, Alwarpet, Phone: 91 44 42257777, No. of Rooms: 118

Deccan Plaza

An excellent vantage point for holiday or business with well appointed rooms and courteous staff to make your stay as comfortable as your home 36, Royapettah High Road, Royapettah, Phone: 91 44 66773333, 9840946105 No. of Rooms: 96

Beverly Hotel

A destination of hospitality that blends modern efficiency with its grandeur of traditional and cultural heritage of South India 17, Rajarathinam Road, Kilpauk, Phone: 91 44 26612772, 7299090938 No. of Rooms: 52

Benzz Park

A business class luxury hotel for the cost conscious corporate & Leisure traveller, with wide range of food n beverage options 62, Thirumalai Pillai Road, T. Nagar, Phone: 91 44 28159999, No. of Rooms: 63

S Hotels Chennai

Situated in the heart of the City and makes magic each and every day to make your travel more memorable 42, Thanikachalam Road, T. Nagar, Phone: 91 44 24315919/ 7825884440 No of Rooms: 35

Fortel

A recently developed business class hotel that facilitates business enhancement, shopping and leisure with aesthetically designed rooms and suites and prominent location 3, Gandhi Irwin Road, Egmore, Phone : 044 6124 2424 & 9841400227 No. of Rooms: 95

Hotel Vestin Park

A business class deluxe hotel with extravagantly designed rooms furnished with luxurious beds, soft furnishings, electronic safe, mini bars, satellite television and many other amenitie 39, Montieth Road, Egmore, Phone: 91 44 28527171, No. of Rooms: 70

Harrisons

An upscale boutique hotel that offers luxurious guest rooms, 3 speciality restaurants, a lounge bar and a trendy theme bar 315, Valluvar Kottam High road, Nungambakkam, Phone: 91 44 42222777 No. of Rooms: 40

New Woodlands Hotel

A pure vegetarian hotel run by an orthodox family for over 70 years that believes in quality standards which are not compromised on any grounds 72-75, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore, Phone: 91 44 28113111, No. of Rooms: 141

Ibis Chennai OMR

Vibrant and quirky ibis Chennai OMR redefines the miles of hospitality and ensures a comfortable and fun stay Rajiv Gandhi Salai(OMR), Phone: