Now that travel restrictions have eased, hotels are urging guests to check out their variety of offerings (with safety standards, of course). For anyone eager to book their tickets and walk around in crisp white bathrobes with a martini in hand, here is our list of recommended luxury hotels – the perfect escape from the monotony of the city.
1. Suryagarh, Jaisalmer
This majestic hotel is the best gateway to the Thar Desert. Its interiors are reminiscent of the bygone but glorious days of the Maharajas and Maharanis, and appropriately, the property redefines luxury and architectural beauty. We love its spacious rooms with vintage decor and breathtaking views, the luxurious spa session at Rait and relaxation by the pool. We’re not kidding when we say the treatment here is fit for royalty. But the best is the sunset at Thar followed by dinner under a starry sky.
2. W, Goa
Located on the shores of Vagator Beach, this boho-luxury 5-star resort invites you to relax, incorporating the essence of a Goa vacation! You can immerse yourself in your vacation by relaxing by the pool, which faces the beautiful beach, nothing less, then drag your languid to the Away® Spa for a massage. A gin-believable evening awaits you at their gin bar, Sylvia, home to premium artisanal British, Japanese, German and Indian gins. Before you head home, give your sand-eaten hair a little bit of attention at W’s Levi Salon, or better yet, get a complete makeover. We remember Monica Geller and her holiday braids, but hey, we leave that up to you.
3. Ayatana, Coorg
Nestled within 100 acres of lush greenery and surrounded by waterfalls, Ayatana serves as a tropical escape with plenty to do. Treat your adventurous spirit to a zipline canal, head on the many trails and hikes and off-road safaris. And after these physically demanding activities, is it any surprise that the on-site spa promises to feel heavenly? Spend your days in pretty private cottages and enjoy meals in restaurants surrounded by glass walls.
4. JW Marriott Walnut Grove & Spa, Mussoorie
The 5-star hotel nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges is the ideal getaway to rest and recuperate. From an energizing yoga session to an entertainment center with indoor games, choose from several recreational activities. Go beyond the hotel property and connect with nature through hikes with unforgettable views. Case in point: a hike to Sir George Everest’s house built in 1832 is sure to leave you captivated with panoramic views of the Doon Valley on one side, and the Aglar River Valley and snow-capped Himalayan Ranges the other. No trip is complete without feasting on authentic local cuisine, and JW Marriott Mussoorie keeps you coming back again and again with their Garhwali Thali and the Kumoani Thali.
5. Evolve back, Hampi
With stunning rugged forests and boulders forming its backdrop, Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, Hampi welcomes you with fort-shaped entrances, cobblestone boulevards, arched hallways and royal chambers – a heritage destination, indeed! Choose from a multitude of villas with palace interiors, a private swimming pool and a spacious lounge. What else? An invigorating experience at Vaidyashala, the hotel spa offering Ayurvedic therapies. There are several cuisines from which to choose for cooking enthusiasts; our first choice is Vijayanagar cuisine from this region, available in the hotel’s Tuluva restaurant.
6. The Hotel Gir Wildlife Sanctuary postcard
Best known for its slow and relaxed vacations, the Postcard Hotel now has a quaint property in the Gir Forest itself. Home to 674 lions, you’re sure to spot one or more, making this the perfect vacation for wildlife enthusiasts. Set on 16 acres of Kesar mango orchards, the hotel has 15 rooms with plenty of privacy, ensuring that the only sounds you hear are those of birds, and if you’re lucky, the call of a welcoming lion. .
7. Taj Chia Kutir Resort and Spa, Darjeeling
Located in the Makaibari Tea Estate dating back to 1859, the 72-room Taj property is the top vacation destination for tea connoisseurs. It houses a tea room where you can enjoy afternoon tea and tasting with a tea sommelier, in addition to having a breathtaking view of the hills and a gourmet restaurant. Enter the world of wellness at the Jiva Spa offering a blend of ancient Indian wisdom and contemporary therapies.
8. Spice Coast Cruise, Kerela
Planning a romantic getaway with your beau? Head for this unusual getaway to stay by a lake! Spice Coast Cruises takes you on a trip on Vembanad Lake in a Kettuvalam. It is the traditional Kerala houseboat that was once used to transport cargoes of rice and spices along these same waterways, for centuries. Interestingly, the captain of the boat also acts as the chef. Must-try dishes include Karimeen Pollichathu (the local fish infused with Kerala spices, wrapped in a banana leaf and grilled to perfection) and nutritious red rice (grown in the fields you pass through). A peaceful boat vacation amidst the wonders of nature in a secluded space, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, what’s not to love?
