Le Meridien, Kochi

Set amid palm-lined grounds on the Kerala backwaters, this upscale hotel occupies a grand, modern building with an annex. It's 7 km from the Hill Palace Museum.

Elegant rooms and suites feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screens, DVD players and minibars. Club rooms offer access to a private lounge with free breakfast and drinks, while suites feature whirlpool tubs, balconies and/or living rooms. Room service is offered 24/7.

Parking is free. There are 2 restaurants, as well as a cafe, a patisserie, and a bar. Other amenities include an outdoor pool and a gym, plus yoga and an Ayurvedic spa. Local houseboats are also available. Breakfast is extra.