Taj Mahal Palace & Tower: Lie like a president

The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower is more than a hotel. It's a historic Mumbai landmark adjoined by the Gateway of India and renowned as the benchmark for luxury hotels in the city.

OK, that pretty much still just makes it a hotel. But since opening in 1903, the Taj has hosted maharajahs and presidents, royals and Beatles within its storied Moorish, Oriental and Florentine-style walls (peep its gallery of illustrious guests in the lobby for proof). And, as with any truly mythic structure, the Taj lays claim to its share of myths...

Some say that when Jamsetji Tata was denied entry to the Watson’s Hotel for its discriminatory policies, he decided to build a grander hotel for Indians. Another legend suggests that the architect’s design was misunderstood and the hotel was built front-side back, directing what should have been the Taj's hind quarters toward the sea -- to the despair of the European architect arriving by boat.

Many believe that the Taj Mahal's close association with Mumbai explains why it was targeted by Pakistani terrorists in the November 26 attacks. While the old wing is still under renovation in their aftermath, the tower is fully functional. Just be sure to request a sea-view room.

The Taj Club Rooms, with their 24-hour butler service, hoity-toity high tea and daily evening cocktails, are old-world cool, while other perks at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower include a stellar guests-only pool and access to the Taj Luxury Yacht. Wanna consume the atmosphere at the Taj even as a non-guest? Take high tea at the Sea Lounge overlooking the harbor and tell everyone you're Paul McCartney.