The staff is so, so friendly and helpful! They are also very honest, trustworthy people. I had a cash refund from a tour and I told the tour to leave the money at the front desk for me to pick up (I felt THAT comfortable with the front desk staff). When I came back from an outing, the front desk agent gave it to me without a rupee missing.
Rooms are just okay by American standards, but all the pampering and attention to details cannot be overlooked. Such as a plate of cookies waiting in your room, or the personal addressed welcome letter waiting on your bed, etc. all done with obvious care.
We didn't have a chance to venture out the neighbourhood, but we wouldn't recommend it at nighttime.