Oberoi’s MV Vrinda introduced Kerala’s Vembanad lake region to luxury cruising. The Park Hotels’ Apsara, raised the bar another notch. The eight-cabin boat, which travels through Kerala’s beautiful backwaters, blends traditional Kerala design with a sleek modern aesthetic. The cabins promise many comforts, including LCD televisions, books, music and movies. You can even have spa treatments on board. The Park Vembanad Lake at Kumarakom west is a small hotel meant to complement the cruiser. This 10-room resort offers, apart from stylish accommodation, a spa, a gym, and restaurants and bars.

The information
Where: 90min from Cochin airport.
Contact: www.theparkhotels.com