Brand New Identity

Joy Roy Choudhury checks out the refurbished MBD Airport Hotel, Kolkata

Before you touch down to Kolkata, you’re sure to spot the MBD Airport Hotel, a prominent dot on the city’s skyline. Situated next to the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport overlooking the halogen-illuminated Kazi Nazrul Islam Sarani, the hotel stands tall among the new breed of luxury hotels that have come up in the city in the recent past. The Salt Lake Electronics complex, the hub of IT activities, is just six kms away from the hotel and the central commercial district of the city is hardly 45 minutes drive as it is conveniently connected to the city through the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass. Taken over by the MBD group, the erstwhile ITDC Airport Ashok Hotel property now sports a spanking new look and also bears a brand new name to go with its appearance. The hotel has undertaken a refurbishment drive redefining the property in terms of aesthetics, F&B as well as service standards. While the new management has retained most of the erstwhile staff, they have radically transformed the attitude making the hotel a virtual case study for professionals in the HR field.

Amongst other strategic changes, the hotel is looking forward to being christened ‘Radisson Plaza’ which would effectively make it the first ever Radisson Plaza in the country. The 156-room hotel (144 twin bedded rooms and 12 suites) recently upgraded furnishings, upholstery and the decor of all rooms. In-room facilities have also been upped, now sporting IDD, cable television, mini-bar, working desk and Internet access. The large outdoor swimming pool situated amidst a lush green surrounding makes an ideal place to chill out after a day’s hard work. For the health freaks, there are the fitness centre and health club of the hotel complete with sauna, steam, jacuzzi and massage facilities.

While the hotel’s new look will appeal to the leisure traveller, it is also geared to suit the needs of its corporate guests. The property is well equipped with banqueting facilities geared for holding business meets, conferences and receptions. The venues available include ‘The Panorama’ I/II, Victoria and Boardroom. But it’s not all about work at MBD, you could get a sumptuous meal at The Durbar, the Indian speciality restaurant or grab a bite at The 24-hour Coffee Shop. The Pavilion Bar, makes a good meeting place to entertain clients over a drink. Business visitors on a short trip to the city can also check out the ‘12-hour facility’ of the hotel. One can check-in and freshen up, go about his work, return from his assignments and check out. They can also check out the unique ‘day-use’ (0900-1800) facility offered by the hotel at competitive rates.