The Taj Gateway Calicut property clearly shows its age and is in urgent need of renovation. From the front gate to the grounds, the entrance, and the lobby, the infrastructure appears neglected, with visible signs of wear and tear. While the staff was courteous and the service commendable, the physical condition of the hotel leaves much to be desired. Maintenance seems to have been overlooked entirely. During our stay, we hosted guests and opted for the buffet at the restaurant. Unfortunately, the experience was disappointing. The spread was unremarkable, and none of the dishes stood out in quality. The chicken, in particular, was tough and tasted stale, lacking the freshness and aroma one expects at a Taj property. The pool also appeared outdated and uninspiring. Overall, the property requires significant refurbishment to meet the standards associated with the ‘Taj’ brand. Without this, it may be time to reconsider its association with such a prestigious name.
The staff at the hotel were good, offering excellent service throughout the stay. However, the property itself fell short of expectations for a 5-star hotel. The ambiance felt outdated, and the overall maintenance appeared neglected, which was disappointing given the high price point. Interestingly, my colleagues stayed at a hotel that was half the cost, and they had nothing but great things to say about their experience, including the ambiance and overall quality. It felt like the value for money was significantly lacking here compared to other more affordable options.
