New Delhi, Dec. 15 -- Lionel Messi is arriving in Delhi today and the city has been operating on a different frequency since morning. The Argentina World Cup-winning captain's visit is short, but nothing about it is low-key. From security arrangements to hotel bookings, the plan is tight, controlled and expensive. Messi and his entourage will check in at The Leela Palace in Chanakyapuri, where an entire floor has been blocked off exclusively for them.

The Argentine delegation is staying in the hotel's Presidential Suites, with room tariffs ranging from around Rs.3.5 lakh to Rs.7 lakh per night. Hotel staff have reportedly been instructed not to discuss the stay.

The drive from the airport to the hotel will take about 30 minutes, but the...