Duration: 28th August 2011 - 2nd September 2011
It has long been told that everyone should visit India at least once in a lifetime. Unexpectedly, my first business trip this year in August 2011 was to visit India. Other than experiencing my first on-site training for the project, it was as well a trip for me to experience life.
The Flight
The day started very early on the morning of 28th August 2011 as my flight to Chennai was at 8.45am thus needed to wake up at 5am+ having to drag my feet out of my room. The Jet Airways this time was rather with a small plane as it took only 4 hours journey to arrive at Chennai. Upon arrival at the KLIA around 7.00am, I was shocked to witness the crowded traffic and people at the airport due to the public holidays we have for that week. The police started giving summons to unattended vehicles parked at the side-ways. During the checking-in process at the terminal, I was being alienated as 99.9% of the passengers were Indians. Even during my initial check-in at the counter, the airport officer tries to recheck with me several times if I am really going to India or am I queuing at the wrong terminal since I am the only Chinese in the queue. =.=
Arrival at the Madras Airport was with a surprising scene to have a whole crowd of local citizens standing at both the side-ways of the exit. The airport was rather small and empty compared to the other airports since it was partially shuts due to renovation works. It was also a surprise that even checking out from the airport, all baggage needed to be scanned once more.
The Hotel
The prearranged pick-up service attendant by the hotel was already waiting at the exit with a placard once I stepped out of the terminal. Upon arriving at the hotel, I was well served by the staffs. The security level of the country was unexpectedly high where every visitor or guest needs to scan each bag before entering the hotel. (Good security or bad safety? Hmmp…)
The Rain Tree hotel in Chennai costing approximately RM420 (with a 20.15% tax charges) a night was wonderful having the best services and environment in town. Even during my meal in the hotel’s restaurant, the chief chef will approach each of the table personally asking for feedback and improvement. There is a hotel staff that performs magic tricks to kids and youngsters during the meal to keep up the ambiance. You will absolutely enjoy the shower in the hotel as it was excellence. The shampoo and shower gel features the natural and local aromatic scent. Having fireworks scene at the window while lying on the comfortable chair was indeed a wonderful experience since they are celebrating some festive locally on the first night.
They have a wonderful open-air bar at the rooftop with a pool and panoramic view of the city. Looking at the night view of Chennai with music and some beers in hand was indeed fantastic!
