Co-Author: Kankana Debnath
As we are unlocking, we are starting to get a glimpse of how the world would look like in the New Normal. As the threat of the virus persists, it is important to look out for the safety precautions adopted by different establishments.
We travelled out for the first time after the lockdowns and we went to Hotel Grand Mercure in Mysore. This 5 Star hotel is relatively new and started operating from 2014 and is a part of the Accor Group which have several hotel chains around the globe.
Grand Mercure has geared up for the New Normal in a pretty nice way and we were impressed by the Safety Precautions that they have placed throughout the Hotel.
The entry to the hotel is seamless and we could self-park our car. After our bags were sanitised, temperatures were taken. Sanitisers are placed everywhere. The Check In Counters have a Glass Panel. Sanitised Pens are kept on the counter and after filling up the necessary forms, the pens need to be placed in used Pen Box so that they are not mixed. For paying by Credit or Debit Card, the Card Machine is cleaned with sanitiser before using the card.
The Lifts have a clear marking and only 2 persons are allowed to ensure social distancing.
As we reached our room, we found it sealed with ‘Sanitised’ Note placed which needs to be broken before entering the room. They have stopped Room Service for now. However, for ordering anything, the food is kept outside the room and guests are required to pick it up from there.
The Restaurant ensures that there is enough distance between the tables and for Buffet, hotel staffs serve food from the buffet counter to the plates. We liked this concept because it ensures that the utensils are only touched by the hotel staffs who are wearing gloves. However, it means there is a bit of extra waiting time for food.
Both the Breakfast and the Dinner have a pretty decent spread. The dessert options though are slightly limited.
The Service is pretty good throughout and tables are sanitised immediately after they are vacated.
We visited in early October and the Gym, Rooftop Swimming Pool, Rooftop Restaurant and the Spa were not operational as per the Safety Norms.
One suggestion from our end, if you are planning for your Breakfast and Dinner at the hotel, we would suggest you to check for ‘Half Board’ plans which includes Buffet Breakfast and Dinner. Most of the times, they are cheaper than if you go for them separately.
Do watch the below YouTube video for a Virtual Tour.
