.png){kind=small}
Why You Should Avoid Staybook Hotel in New Delhi: Our Honest Review
- Jenn & Leon
- Oct 14, 2023
- 15 min read
Updated: Jul 21
We arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport after a long travel day pretty late in the evening.
We were weary and tired, and most grateful that our first hotel in India had been able to arrange a pick-up service directly from the airport.
Our immediate feeling about the airport was that it felt old, a little tired, and dated.
That being said, the best judge of an airport, in our opinion, is getting through it smoothly, and smoothly we did.
To be honest, the carnage started once we got outside!
Okay, perhaps carnage is a strong word. But it was busy. Like really, really busy.
There were people everywhere, and luckily, we had our driver, who was seemingly pulling us away from the chaos.
The trip from arrivals to the parking lot seemed very far, and by the time we had gotten to where we needed to be, we were pretty exhausted.
When we got to our hotel, we realised very quickly that it was not at all what it was online.
The room was tired and dated, the bathroom was a disaster, and we couldn't even shower!
In this post, we review the budget Staybook Hotel in New Delhi, plus we introduce you to India's notorious roads and a common scam sweeping New Delhi.
In This Post...
See More...
Travel Resources
Arriving in India: Our First Impressions
Even having traveled to 42 countries at the time of writing, it is fair to say that we still need time to acclimate to new environments.
No matter how many different cultures we see, each one is unique and different, and from the moment we land, we are consciously and subconsciously taking it all in.
While we had done plenty of research and knew what to expect, we were both pretty wary as we stood in the exhaust-filled car park waiting for our guy to fetch the car.
In the five minutes we waited, a hundred people could have easily walked by.
Even at 11 pm, this place was rocking! A lot was happening, and it was a tad overwhelming.
We were most grateful to see our driver pull up, and to be fair to him, he was super friendly.
He cracked plenty of jokes, told us some information about his country, and was happy to help with our luggage.
His vehicle was okay too; almost like a Suzuki Carry van but as a 5-seater, also (and perhaps most importantly), the air conditioning was really solid too.
So overall, we felt pretty secure and confident that we would get to the hotel okay, which was about 45 minutes from the airport.
An Introduction to India's Notorious Roads
Just before we were leaving, after getting our stuff in the trunk, our driver made a point of saying, 'Don't worry, I drive slow. '
Rather an odd thing to say, but as perhaps intended, it was quite reassuring. Well, that was before takeoff anyway!
Many a nervous glance was shared between us as our juddery driver crunched through the gears and sped across the roads out of the airport like a man on a serious mission.
While it may seem like a glamorous exaggeration, it is not.
We are talking 120-140km p/h easily most of the way there, including some pretty dangerous and hairy manoeuvres that you would expect more from a high-speed police chase than a simple airport transfer.
We tried not to say too much about it, although Leon did reciprocate the 'drive slow' joke midway through the ride with a comparison to Lewis Hamilton.
We think he got it, although one can never be too sure!
As it was late at night, there was not much we could see, although we have to say that driving out from Indira Gandhi International Airport was a breeze.
Long stretches of well-lit highways keep the traffic flowing, and owing to the G20 event just a few days earlier, there were India's flag colours were lit up in lights around all of the lampposts too.
Couple that with lots of G20 livery, flowers, and all, at every intersection, and it looked very nice.
Clean and modern, we were almost feeling like perhaps India might just upset our preconceptions.
But it was night, and we had not seen the hotel yet.
We made it to the Staybook Hotel, easily within the 45 minutes. Our driver was certainly right on that, at least, and we were just glad we made it without any major incident.
We had planned to give the driver a tip, and indeed, once our bags were out of the trunk, he did stand intentionally close to persuade us to do so.
Leon initially gave him 200 rupees, of which he asked for more, so Leon left him with 500.
In all honesty, our hesitance to tip at all would have been warranted given the crazy driving.
But, well, this was our first night, he got us here, and hopefully his extra bunce on the job was worth it. Who knows what his situation is?
Back in February of this year, we visited Vietnam for the first time, followed by Cambodia shortly after.
Thailand was our 'home' for five months at the start of 2023.
So it is fair to say that we 'know' a little bit about the road situation. Lots of bikes, tuk-tuks/rickshaws, scooters, cars, and a whole bunch of traffic.
Well, let's just say combine that experience all into one, roll it up in a ball, and India will be the one to kick it. India's roads are on a whole other level!
Our Staybook Hotel (City Stories) New Delhi Review
We chose Staybook - Hotel City Stories - By Aira Xing, Paharganj, as it is close to the famous Connaught Place / Circle, and is in the heart of New Delhi.
Right on a main road, finding transport was not a problem.
Besides, with a 4-star rating online, some nice-looking photos, and a great price, we had high hopes.
As it happens, when we arrived, our friends Jackson and Marjo were already there. They were on the balcony when we were offloading our bags and paying our tip.
Try as they could, they shouted to us by name, hoping to catch some sort of wave or smile or anything. But we couldn't hear them!
Already a tad traumatized after some very near misses on the way there, and weary from our flights and travel day vibes, the noise of Delhi took over.
The honking! Oh, the honking. Loud, intrusive, and near-constant, the honking was sure to drown out any hopes they had of us hearing them, even from only the second floor of the hotel.
You can catch that moment in our YouTube video. Be sure to check that out later!
With the chaotic traffic behind us (even at 11 pm?!), we made our way with our bags through a pretty dingy doorway and through to an elevator.
There was a guard on hand to help who was very eager to get us through and up to the reception. He, like many others, warned that it was a 'dangerous area'.
Our immediate impression was that the Storybook Hotel did not look like what we had booked at all.
In all of the hundreds of accommodations we have stayed at, we have not often arrived somewhere that seriously made us consider our choice. Maybe only twice.
Well, this was the third!
More so for the lack of honesty, and as our stay there progressed, also for the basic lack of safety and maintenance.
⪢ The Service
One standout of the Storybook Hotel was the service. Above all else, good service can go a long way to masking things like poor aesthetics.
We were shown to our room, offered help with our luggage, given towels, complimentary water, and access to the WIFI.
We became familiar with one worker in particular, the one helping us with our breakfast in the photo (sorry, we cannot remember his name).
He was cool, although a little odd in his ways.
He had this wonderful habit of saying 'ten minutes' for everything. Any request. Like water or toilet paper, for example.
Ten minutes, and then it always ended up being 20!
However, we will call him out on some poor practices, like offering coffee and placing his fingers inside our cups, clenched on the rim. No gloves, of course.
He also had a rather strange habit of wanting to plate our food, using our utensils, and we did put a stop to that.
But overall, even with his lack of English, he was our 'go-to' guy at the hotel, and he was pretty helpful and good at his job.
⪢ The Food
The food at the hotel did not look like much, but it was okay, to be fair.
Breakfast was included in the price for us, and bizarrely, the front desk even called our room at 8 am to let us know it was ready.
The 'canteen', we guess we should call it, was not up to much, and did not give a good first impression at all.
Utensils were scarce, the plastic tables in the middle of the room had seen better days, and the 'buffet' table consisted of 4 elements every morning.
The options for breakfast would bounce around between roti and yoghurt, spicy Indian pickles, oatmeal, cornflakes (with no milk), and coffee.
The coffee came courtesy of instant granules and a rather dodgy water machine.
The combinations were fairly decent, and while it did not inspire much confidence with its presentation, we both did enjoy the mornings.
It was a little hot, although in the dilapidated room, there was a ceiling fan that worked. There is a balcony which is full of plants, which is nice.
Then, of course, there is the constant honking that fills the whole building, more incessant than ever in the mornings as the road outside starts to choke up.
So breakfast was interesting, to say the least.
We were in India, and we certainly felt like it!
There is also a menu for in-room food, which was pretty decent. We did order a few things, which were okay, but it was not very fancy.
It was efficient, though, and the prices were reasonable. There is a KFC opposite the hotel, which is pretty handy if you like that as we do (although it is very different from 'western' KFC).
In terms of other food options outside of the hotel, we cannot say. We did not walk around much, so we did not see if there were any stores or restaurants.
⪢ The Room
While the main corridor of rooms in the hotel looked tired, the very same can be said of the rooms themselves.
In all fairness, the bed was comfy, although the sheets were stained in places. But okay, what are you going to do? We could manage.
The rest of the room, however, left much to be desired. Broken plug sockets, grubby light switches, damaged furniture, and grubby walls.
This was not the picture we saw.
⪢ The Bathroom
The worst part for us was the bathroom. This is something we never usually compromise on wherever we stay.
It is important for us that we have our bathroom, and that is one of the various reasons hostels do not appeal to us (although we now know we can get private rooms with a bathroom).
At the Staybook Hotel, it was a disaster. The only basic function that worked was the toilet, and even that was a struggle.
There was only one tap for water, which would constantly be out of water, and when it did work, it would just keep spluttering and spitting.
And the worst part of it all, the water smelled awful. The kind of smell that Leon would associate with his plumbing days.
For sure, something must have been dead in the water tank.
We literally could not use the water. Now you can get away with hand sanitizer and the like for that, and we never brush our teeth with tap water anyway.
But how could we shower?
We literally couldn't. Besides, the shower area was not clean, and the shower head was so rusted that water would have a hard time coming out anyway.
We did not even attempt to find out.
This was the first time in all of our travels that we had not been able to shower. And we were in New Delhi, one of the hottest cities on the planet.
Things were not looking good!
Thank goodness the air conditioning worked ok, despite the numerous wires spewing out of the side of it. So at least we were not hot in the room.
We had to improvise, and we used wet wipes. We did not feel clean, but it was better than nothing.
⪢ How We Would Sum Up Staybook Hotel
It is hard to sum up our stay at the Staybook Hotel New Delhi.
We paid 140 CAD for 3 nights, which works out to be a little under £85. In terms of location and value, it certainly ticks the boxes.
We also have to shout out the WIFI, which was surprisingly good for the first few days.
The staff are friendly, although they were very pushy with our friends at the end of our stay for a review online.
So much so, they almost demanded that they do it in front of them, and we have read about this in the reviews online, too.
Despite the challenges, this was our hotel for 3 days, and we had to accept our situation.
We were a little disappointed, but we were not going to let this dampen our enthusiasm for Delhi.
At least if you have read this, you will know what to expect. This is a 2-star hotel at best, but money-wise, you really cannot go wrong.
Bring plenty of wet wipes and you will be just fine!
The Water Bottle Scam
One thing we did sadly catch wind of is that there is a known scam involving water bottles in India.
Water is refilled in a bottle from the tap, and the lid is heat-sealed to look like it has not been opened.
The hotel did provide bottled water in the room, and there was also a chiller by reception.
It was not very cold, but we did indulge, as it is important to stay hydrated in the heat!
While we do not in any way accuse the hotel of this bottle scam, some of the water was filled so high in the bottle that it just did not seem like they were genuine.
We highly recommend double-checking water bottles, as bad water can cause discomfort and, in some cases, serious illness!
We did use them, and the day after we left the hotel, we all got sick, although we cannot be sure it was from the water. Just please be diligent!
India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour
One of the most popular ways to explore India is by guided tour.
Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur.
Check out a host of different options with GetYourGuide.
No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination.
How to Get to Hotel Staybook City Stories
Throughout our time in New Delhi, it was pretty easy to get to and from the hotel. As the hotel offers an airport shuttle service, getting there initially is no problem.
Despite its location on a busy main road, it is possible to get an Uber just outside. It is a tad tricky for the driver to park, but the traffic is so busy that it is possible.
In terms of getting back to the hotel from any excursions, Uber does that easily.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services
From Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), the hotel is approximately a 30–40 minute drive depending on traffic.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber are widely available and reliable in New Delhi.
Always use official airport taxi counters or trusted ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and overcharging.
By Metro
The nearest metro station to Staybook Hotel is typically Shahdara or Welcome Station, depending on the exact hotel location.
New Delhi Metro is efficient and affordable; you can take the Yellow Line or Red Line to connect with these stations.
From the metro station, you might need a short taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to the hotel.
By Bus
Several city bus routes run near the hotel; however, buses in New Delhi can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.
It’s recommended to use the metro or taxi services for convenience.
⪢ Contact Information for Staybook Hotel City Stories
● Address: Police Station, Plot No. 1-5, Desh Bandhu Gupta Rd, opposite Paharganj, Motia Khan, Sadar Bazaar, Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110055, India
● Phone: +91 83739 29299
● Website: staybook-city-stories
.
Where to Stay in New Delhi
Browse our interactive New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top recommended, reputable providers in the city.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Watch Our First Impressions of India on YouTube
This is our first time visiting New Delhi, and the sights, smells, sounds, and energy of this city hit us like nowhere else on Earth.
With a population of over 34 million, Delhi is massive, loud, and alive — and we’re diving right into the chaos and beauty.
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world!
Our Experience Ratings:
Staybook Hotel City Stories
We have not had too many bad experiences on our travels when it comes to accommodation.
Usually, our combination of good experience and thorough research leads to good spots!
Sadly, on this occasion, this was not the case.
The Hotel Staybook has done a pretty good job of their online presence, and we perhaps trusted the hotel listing a little too much here.
We would not go as far as advising against booking this hotel, as what bothered us may not bother you. All we can do is be honest!
There are some good positives, such as its location and service, and of course, the price is very attractive too.
If you do choose to stay here, hopefully this post has helped to manage your expectations, so you aren't as surprised as we were when we arrived!
Cleanliness
We can only be honest here, and honestly, this place needs a major clean-up!
The overall decor is tired and dated, with much of the furniture very worn too.
Things like door handles and light switches were either broken or too dirty to touch, and the bathroom was, quite frankly, terrible.
The toilet leaked, we literally couldn't use the water because of the smell, and bugs were crawling around, too. Not good!
Cost & Value
At just under CAD 50 per night, this hotel does represent good value to a point.
If you are on a budget, it is fairly attractive, if you can handle the lack of cleanliness and rundown common areas.
Food
Breakfast is included, billed as a buffet, although we would not call it that!
The options typically consisted of some combination of egg/roti and a traditional Indian dish.
It was okay, but the coffee was not good, and the dining area was in very poor condition overall.
Location
On the location front, the hotel is around 20-30 minutes from Connaught Place (the popular shopping hub), and in general, you can get to most places fairly comfortably.
There are a plethora of Tuk-tuks just outside for a quick ride, and you can also catch a Grab, although sometimes, due to traffic, they can find it difficult to find a place to stop.
Service
If there was one saving grace to our experience here, it would be the service, which was fantastic.
The staff were more than happy to help with all of our queries, and were attentive and friendly.
FAQ – Staybook Hotel New Delhi Review – Avoid
What issues did you encounter at Staybook Hotel New Delhi?
Common problems included poor cleanliness, outdated facilities, unhelpful staff, and inaccurate online descriptions compared to the experience.
Is Staybook Hotel suitable for families or solo travelers?
Based on our experience, the hotel is not recommended for families or solo travelers seeking comfort and reliable service.
How was the location of Staybook Hotel?
The location was convenient in terms of proximity to major landmarks, but the hotel’s condition and service did not meet expectations.
Were there any safety concerns during the stay?
We noticed some safety and security lapses, including poor maintenance and a lack of proper guest support.
What alternatives do you suggest instead of Staybook Hotel?
We recommend looking into well-reviewed hotels in New Delhi, such as [suggest alternatives with internal links], which offer better service and amenities.
Is the Staybook Hotel worth the price?
Considering the quality and experience, the hotel is good for a tight budget, but not a good value for money in our opinion.
Did you report the issues to the hotel management?
Yes, but the response was unsatisfactory and did not resolve our concerns.
Can I get a refund or compensation for a bad stay?
Refund policies vary by booking platform. It’s best to check your booking terms and contact customer support directly.
Should I book Staybook Hotel through third-party sites?
Given the issues reported, it’s advisable to avoid booking through third-party sites or the hotel directly.
What precautions should travelers take when booking hotels in New Delhi?
Read multiple reviews, check recent guest photos, and verify cancellation policies before booking.
Up Next: Our First Scam in India, SIX in a Rickshaw, Connaught Place, and a Very Unique Restaurant
Our very first full day in New Delhi was an eventful one, to say the least!
Together with our travel buddies Jackson and Marjo, we wanted to check out the famous Connaught Place shopping hub.
From the moment we stepped out into the bustling heat outside our hotel, we were marked, eventually pushed towards a rickshaw, and somehow found ourselves dropped off at a 'tourist centre'.
Following that, and after encountering a very aggressive beggar, we discovered Dr Zombie restaurant and bar, and well, the rest is an eight-hour history they say...
Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing
For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance.
SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft.
SafetyWing's Complete Plan offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits.
Book Transport
Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance
Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience.
Interactive Map
India
Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog.
(Tap for more info)
Wanderlog is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends.
Closer Lives Travel Hub
Destinations, Tips & Essentials
Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!).
Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way.
Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
For more information, see our Affiliate Disclosure.
.png)
.png)
Writing a review like this is certainly not something we take lightly, We always try to showcase the best of wherever we visit, and we have tried to here. This hotel made doing that pretty difficult though! We have tried to be fair, and hopefully it is taken as constructive, as is its intention!