Destination: India
Spread across 26 acres of the lush backwaters of the Kappil River in north Kerala, the 71-room Vivanta Bekal opens officially on February 28.
Part of Taj Hotels' Vivanta by Taj brand, the resort's architecture is inspired by the Kettuvallam houseboats of the region.
Graceful interiors feature copper and gold leaf murals inspired by Sanskrit manuscript, bronze chandeliers and birdcage lanterns. Luxe touches include private plunge pools.
To follow is an ayurvedic spa with treatment rooms opening on to courtyards and water gardens, meditation and yoga pavilions and relaxation pools.
Retox in the seafood and all-day dining restaurants and elephant-themed bar. Nearby lies the keyhole shaped Bekal Fort, above the beach. Mangalore airport is 60 km away.
Jet Airways flies from Heathrow to Mangalore via Bombay, jetairways.com. Doubles from £195 room only, vivantabytaj.com
