Zone Palace by The Park Phalodi

Traditional balconies and terraces give Zone Palace By The Park a magical setting for parties and banquets. The ample courtyard recalls another era and is now used for musical concerts and other shows. There is also a remarkable library of books and manuscripts from princely times. Built in 1750, this splendid heritage 'haveli' was a wealthy merchant's mansion, with intricate 'jalli' work in red sandstone that shows the artisans' skill and the owner's wealth. It stands in the picturesque historic town of Phalodi in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, known for old Jain and Hindu temples over 300 years old. Zone Palace By The Park is operated by Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited.

Getting to the location is a challenge, and despite the Heritage Room name, the room was small and smelly. There was no buffet for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, even though we were charged for a buffet when all rooms were booked. Calling the heritage name a scam feels fair. The staff were mostly good, apart from one or two people. Cleanliness needs a lot of improvement, even though this hotel's cleanliness is among the best in Phalodi.

It's a nice vintage property, but I had a very bad experience with the service and left on a bad note. Calls from the room went unanswered, so I had to come out and look for someone. When I did, they told me to call from the room again. They didn't provide the laundry bag I asked for, and when the lift failed I had to carry my luggage downstairs myself. Reception offered to put it in the car, but it felt like a begrudging favor, and they threw the bags in as if they were bricks or cement. The bathroom water problem wasn't fixed, even after I complained and someone attended to it. When I raised everything at Reception, the receptionist acted as if it was my fault. I didn't want an argument, but I won't visit again.

The food was really great, and the staff offered amazing hospitality. I stayed at Zone Palace for 3 days and found it quite homely, while still giving heritage vibes.