Recreation & Sightseeing Hotel Casino, Cochin

The city of Cochin could be a riot of sensation at first sight. It's one of the most cosmopolitan cities in India, yet mixes all the spice of tradition with its modernity.

Bustling Ernakulam is the newer and commercial part of the twin cities. Enjoy your last scoop of Chocolate Chip ice cream for a while (the Keralan desserts will ensure you don't miss it much). Visit the malls and stores if you want to stock up on clothes or personal effects. Most of the world's leading brands are available here and if you're adventurous enough, so are lots of colourful options in sarees and 'mundus' (the traditional Keralan mens' dress). But if Ernakulam is the heart, then the soul of Cochin lies in its older quarters. Here, eight centuries of history are on display, as are a kaleidoscope of cultures. In a span of a few kilometers, you can see a Dutch Harbour house, India's oldest Jewish synagogue, The Catholic St Francis Church, Portuguese navigator Vasco Da Gama's grave, The Hindu Raja of Cochin's Mattancherry Palace, The British Raj-era Cochin Club, and the towering Chinese fishing nets on the harbour!

Excursions into the town can be as tiring as they are exhilarating. Specially if you're not so used to the climate (Kerala usually oscillates between breezy warmth, pouring rain and torrid sunshine!). The Cascade pool can be the perfect restorative. Swimsuits are available in the gift shop - which is worth a visit, even if you aren't so keen on a dip. You'll find exquisite examples of traditional Keralan crafts, exotic fabrics, garments, books, handbags and all sorts of fascinating bric-a-brac.

Another great way to relax is an Ayurvedic massage. Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine, and the Casino has its own resident experts and fully equipped facilities.