Hyderabad-Deccan , General info:
7/10

A 400-year-old city founded by the Qutbishahi kings near the ancient Golconda forts, Hyderabad has been the seat of Nizams. Aftre India's freedom, it has been the capital of Hyderabad state, and since 1960 the capital of Andhra Pradesh. It is emerging as a vibrant knowledge centre, with its strong base of Information technology and biiotechnology sector. The Charminar is its symbol, a domed four-pillared 182-foot structure, that testifies to the triumph of human endeavour over pestilence. It is said to have been built to mark the city's resurrectin from plague.

Hyderabad-Deccan , Cheap stuff:
5/10

Being almost a geographic centre of the Indian sub-continent, it reflects the merger and blending of different linguistic and social sub-cultures of India. One finds a fair mix of various ethnic groups. One can see the ancient and the modern co-existing in this city. The maximum number of films in any language other than Hindi are made in Hyderabad, ie in Telougu. Ramoji Film City, located 30 km from the city, is a landmark. Well, landmarks abound.

Hyderabad-Deccan , Don't miss:
7/10

The Golconda, The Char Minar, Salarjung Museum, Tank Bund, The State Assembly, The Birla Temple, Shilparamam, Ramoji Film City, Osmania University, Banjara Hills.Falaknuma Palace

The Pathargatti, on way to Charminar has jewellery and pearl shops.

Hyderabad-Deccan , Food:
2/10

A variety of food. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian. The Hyderabadi biryani is famous.

Hyderabad-Deccan , Hotels:
2/10

A variety to choose from. Some of them are on par with the best in the world.

Hyderabad-Deccan , Safety:
2/10

Well, if you overlook the bit of rash driving on all roads.

Philadelphia , General info:
9/10

Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth most populous city in the United States. It is the 5th largest metropolitan area by population in the United States, and the fourth largest consumer media market as ranked by the Neilsen Media Research Co. Tourists and media often informally call the city "Philly." It is the county seat of Philadelphia County, with which it is coterminous.

Philadelphia , Cheap stuff:
9/10

If you are near center city, a little known attraction is the observatory deck atop city hall. The observatory deck is directly under the William Penn stautue. You can actually look up through an open window at him and really get a sense of how big he is. I have taken people that grew up in Philly there and they never knew it existed. It is free and the hours are Mon.-Fri. from 9:30 am-4:30 pm with tours occuring every 15 minutes (no weekends). So the hours are a little funny but it is WELL worth it if your schedule permits it.

Also since you will be in the area, another small known attraction is the Wanamaker Organ in Lord and Taylor. Lord and Taylor is kaddy corner across the street from city hall on the southeast corner. The organ is a massive 30,000-pipe organ which has been said to be the largest in the world. They have daily (FREE!) shows at noon and 5pm (7pm on Wednesday). There is a nice Café Americanstyle that overlooks the scene from a third floor terrace.

Philadelphia , Different stuff:
10/10

African American Museum in Philadelphia, Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Free Library of Philadelphia, ...

Philadelphia , Don't miss:
9/10

Warmdaddy's, Zanzibar Blue, Khyber, Electric Factory, Tin Angel

Philadelphia , Food:
10/10

There are 10 things you should do in Philadelphia:

1. Eat a Philly cheesesteak

2. See the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

3. Run, jog, or walk up the Art Museum steps

4. Experience a Big 5 basketball game at the legendary Palestra

5. Devour an authentic Italian meal in South Philly

6. Drink a local microbrew

7. Visit Penn's Landing and walk along the Delaware River

8. Try a soft pretzel and more at the Reading Terminal Market

9. Stroll down funky South Street with stops for steaks, pizza, and cheese fries

10. Have a cocktail out on Rittenhouse Square

Philadelphia , Hotels:
9/10

Loews Philadelphia Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown, Alexander Inn, Sofitel Philadelphia

Philadelphia , Safety:
9/10

Center City Philadelphia is a friendly and diverse place. Most people will gladly point you in the right direction, even if they only work in the city. Center City is generally bordered by the Delaware River on the East, Spring Garden Street on the North, the Schuylkill (Skoo - cul) River on the West and South Street on the South. If you stay within those boundaries, you're pretty safe.