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Customised luxury travel options in India

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Cochin and the Kerala backwaters have a lovely collection of luxurious boutique hotels ranging from converted colonial mansions to retreats in the midst of spice plantations and idyllic waterways that are ideal for spending a holiday with an emphasis on relaxation. It’s fair to say that if I were to suggest a region that has some of the best customised luxury travel options in India, Kerala would top the list.

Serene Kochi as it’s called locally has been drawing traders and explorers to its shores for over 600 years. Nowhere else in India could you find such an intriguing mix: giant fishing nets from China, a 400-year-old synagogue, ancient mosques, Portuguese houses and the crumbling remains of the British Raj.

The result is an unlikely blend of medieval Portugal, Holland and an English village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. It’s a delightful place to spend some time and nap in some of India’s finest home stays and heritage accommodation.

The Malabar House at Cochin is full of character and is located in the heart of historic Fort Cochin - perfect for a few days of relaxation upon your arrival in Kerala. In the heart of historical fort, the property combines traditional and contemporary design and is furnished with select antiques and art. The 17 rooms have striking colour schemes and are decorated with antique objet d’art. The Malabar Junction is the gourmet restaurant in the property offering both south Indian and western cuisine, while Divine is the wine lounge.

A recent addition is Trinity which is just a two minute walk from The Malabar House. A large gate bears the initials VOC. The monogram, which is dated 1740, represents the Dutch East India Company, which had its offices here for almost 150 years. The three bedroomed villa is furnished with contemporary design and unique pieces of art. All rooms have private bath - garden. At the adjoining property facing the Parade Ground work is currently going on to add five more rooms.



Set in a marvelous colonial spice-plantation mansion in the foothills of the Western Ghats is Serenity that provides exceptional service in a beautiful natural setting. This is situated on a small hilltop, surrounded by a rubber plantation in the heart of the plantation hills, midway between Cochin and Thekkady. The old plantation bungalow, built in the 1920’s retains the original woodwork, paneling and atmosphere. All rooms are decorated with antique objet d’art. Local Indian and Mediterranean cuisine is available.


An overnight boat journey on the unique and luxurious Discovery cruise boat through a series of scenic backwaters will bring you to probably the most exclusive private retreat in Kerala within a supremely beautiful setting on the banks of Lake Vembanad.

Situated on the shores of Lake Vembanad, Privacy are two bungalows facing the lake with a panoramic view of Kumarakom. It is surrounded by water canals. Both bungalows are situated in a tropical garden. The highly trained chef prepares delicious meals and a daily fresh menu based on the recipes of The Malabar Junction at Malabar House.

Any holiday is incomplete without some down time at a gorgeous sandy beach. Arrive at the exclusive Marari Beach Resort which is a mere 40 minutes from Privacy. It is probably the most chic beach property in Kerala and is a perfect choice for those seeking ultimate peace and quiet and a worthwhile treat at the end of your holiday.

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