The Accommodation in Delhi is somewhat mixed, with the unfortunate reputation of being filled with palaces or pits but that is no longer true, although both are still available there are now also a good range of quality but sensibly priced hotels.

Luxury is readily available but at a price, the Hotel Diplomat offers good quality at a very good price, refurbished with an art deco feel, it has an excellent central location in New Delhi. Clean and good value it has the added attraction of being above one of the trendiest restaurants in the city, the lush green terrace giving a lively vibrant feel in the warm Delhi evenings.

The frivolously named Tickli Bottom may be outside the city but the owners (two British diplomats who couldn’t bear to leave) offer the best welcome of all for families wishing to visit the city. The beautiful mansion with its own pool has a farmyard next door where the children are positively encouraged to have as much fun as possible. A true gem with an amazing rural feel.

Delhi has had somewhat of a food revolution in recent years and it is perfectly possible to try cuisine from almost any corner of the world, the Indian cuisine itself is spectacular with many regional variations on the heavily spiced dishes of the country.

Fresh and vibrant the local food is heavily seeped in tradition and flavours using the very best of the local produce.

Chor Bizarre offers traditional food from the great Kashmiri region, although the food is good the main draw is the performers that are there to attract the tourists. Traditional folk dances are performed as you enjoy the atmosphere of this unusual restaurant.

Vibrant and lively Kwaliti may pack in the diners but it also packs in the fun. Always loud, always busy and always serving the best local food, this is the restaurant to go to if you want to soak up the history of Delhi. For over 70 years this restaurant has been a favourite amongst the locals and with excellent traditionally cooked food it isn’t difficult to see why.

The independence of India was a huge and defining event in global history and the Nehru Memorial Museum pays homage to India’s first prime minister. Filled with photographs and reminders of an era gone by, the museum has in part remained exactly as it was when the residence of this historic figure.

Although a four hour drive from Delhi it is an almost compulsory part of any visit to India to take a trip out to Agra to see the iconic Taj Mahal, this instantly recognisable building is considered to be one of the best heritage sites in the world. Built in the early 1600’s as a place of memoriam it is an absolute must see piece of architectural beauty.

Although awash with great architecture and culture Delhi also has a light hearted side, with some great bars offering plenty of gimmicks, ranging from live music to jukeboxes specialising in 70’s kitsch. Whether you want outrageous cocktails or a choice of twenty single malt whiskies Delhi has them all.

Summers are long, lasting from April to October with temperatures often surpassing 100F and a monsoon season peaking during July and August. The winter months are generally cool and dry with occasional low temperatures that can become quite cold overnight.

With a mainly Hindu population the city celebrates many religious festivals throughout the year, most notably Diwali (the festival of lights), a five day festival during October or November; although a beautiful festival it is classed as a national holiday with reduced working hours and attraction closures, so travel during this period may be less convenient.