Le Colonial

Neemrana's Le Colonial is a historic boutique hotel housed in an old Portuguese colonial home that dates back to 1506. This two-story structure features whitewashed walls, wood banisters, and gorgeous terra-cotta roof tiles. Outside, it has grassy lawn space and tropical plants, plus a patio table and a pool off to one side for those who want to relax. Inside, there's a semi-open patio with wicker chairs, plus a proper living room area that serves as the hotel's lobby. The whole house is decorated with vintage oil paintings and historic lithographs, plus antique furniture. Most guests are vacationing couples looking for something historic, romantic, and intimate. The property gets its fair share of both domestic and international visitors. 

Neemrana's Le Colonial has a fantastic location in atmospheric Fort Kochi, which has plenty of charming boutiques and restaurants -- not to mention many of the city's main historic attractions. The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica and the beachfront Chinese fishing nets are both within walking distance. The Jew Town neighborhood, home to the historic local synagogue and the 16th-century Mattancherry Palace, are both about a 15-minute drive away. Expect a 25-minute to half-hour drive to the Ernakulam Junction Railway Station, traffic permitting. Cochin International Airport is about an hour to an hour-and-a-half away without traffic, but getting there can take a fair bit longer during rush hour.

Le Colonial offers seven distinct rooms, each with its own charming look and feel. The smallest is the Aide de Camp, which features a four-poster bed and can be attached to the largest room in the house -- the Viceroy -- to accommodate groups and families. The other five rooms feature either two queen beds or one double bed (extra beds are available on request), and all rooms have wood floors and furniture. Note that rooms are air-conditioned but they lack TVs in keeping with the old-fashioned vibe. Wi-Fi is free and available in rooms and throughout the hotel.Bathrooms are chic, with lots of marble, huge walk-in rainfall showers (and soaking tubs in some), and toiletries are provided. Some rooms have lovely furnished balconies and pool views. 

Le Colonial doesn't offer a ton of amenities, perhaps not surprising given its small size, but there is a lovely spa offering massages as well as a small outdoor pool that's big enough for swimming laps. The hotel offers a meeting room for up to 20 guests, classroom style, and audiovisual equipment is available. There's also a restaurant with all sorts of Indian and continental dishes, including plenty of locally caught seafood-based offerings. Room rates include breakfast and either lunch or dinner from the hotel's a la carte menu, but note that room service is not available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.