Kumarakom Vacations from $2,453

Lovely hotel and friendly staff.

The Vivanta is undergoing slow renovations so it’s not fair to make this a review of the hotel as a whole. It’s just the first room I was assigned was a throwback to the 1970s and with the mold in the bathroom attesting to the passing of decades. I was moved to another room which was somewhat more from our own time. But then the keycard reader kept locking me out so they had to reprogram it or something. Anyhow the positives: the restaurant and bar are very nice spaces with pretty good food and drink. You can walk straight out to Marine Drive walkway, which is nice being right by the sea (but also somewhat sad and smelly—I know this is supposed to be the positive part!). The water metro (ferries) is just five minutes away by foot so you can easily get to Fort Kochi for historical sightseeing and pretty good shopping and dining, it’s an amazing 6 rupees. Overall I had a relaxing time and the staff and public spaces helped with that.

The best hotel in Kochin Best lobby Best staff Best rooms Best pool with a view Best food

Lovely spot but ruined by constant cawing of crows

Comfortable, spacious rooms. The bed however was a bit small and the mattress needed changing. Good, safe location. The restaurant is the best part - I had 3 excellent meals for dinner. The chef made everything in an authentic style. Staff are also brilliantly trained. Ayush and Eldrin are very good at their jobs.