I had the pleasure of visiting Mangalore on the 17th of October 2023, where I was greeted with a warm welcome despite my late arrival at night after a 12-hours long journey. One of the first things that captured my attention was a stunning wall-to-wall mural behind the front office desk. This remarkable artwork vividly depicted the cultural heritage of Karnataka, featuring Kola performances, Kambala races, and other local traditions that have gained recent pan-India popularity thanks to the movie ”Kantara.” It served as a captivating introduction to the exciting experiences that awaited me during my stay. Let's talk about the accommodation. The rooms were tastefully appointed and impeccably clean. I particularly appreciated the Skylight Suites, which, while lacking a balcony, featured a beautifully decorated and spacious sitting area with a skylight adjacent to the main room. This clever design made the room feel more expansive. However, it's worth mentioning that the washrooms could benefit from better ventilation. In terms of dining, the food was satisfactory, but I would suggest diversifying the menu to include more vegetarian options to cater to a wider range of preferences. Now, let me highlight the standout feature of my stay – the in-house transportation services provided by the hotel. They operated with exceptional efficiency, boasting well-maintained and spotlessly clean vehicles. The chauffeurs were not only punctual but also displayed the utmost professionalism. I must give a special commendation to Mr. Balraj, who not only ensured our smooth transport to the temples we had planned to visit but also offered valuable insights into darshan durations. His willingness to take us to additional temples during our journeys, such as the Mariamman Temple in Mangalore, Rajarajeshwari Temple in Polali, Bappanadu Parameshwari Temple in Mulki, and Uchchila Maha Lakshmi on the way to Udupi (and possibly more that I can't recall at the moment) was truly exceptional. His knowledge of cultural immersion opportunities, especially during Navratris, was remarkable, and he even introduced us to experiences like the Yakshagana performance at Kadri Manjunatheswar. As my trip had a strong focus on pilgrimage, his insights into these sacred places were invaluable. His careful and considerate approach as a driver was exemplary. Not once did he engage in rash driving, even in the challenging and treacherous forested, mountainous routes that we encountered. Furthermore, Mr. Balraj's helpful nature shone brightly throughout our journey. With my elderly parents accompanying me, his assistance was greatly appreciated. He went above and beyond to ensure their comfort and well-being, offering his support at every turn. His unwavering dedication to both our safety and enjoyment of the trip made him an indispensable part of our experience. Mr. Balraj truly embodies the spirit of excellence in service. I must express my gratitude to Mr. Nilesh Nayak, the Front Office
