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Cochin is a city with history on every corner and being 300 years old, Old Harbour Hotel is very much a part of that. The hotel has taken many forms over the years and with its Dutch-style architecture, it captures the bygone era of seafaring travellers. Nowadays, it's a boutique hotel set in a large, tropical garden and decked out with vintage furnishings. Most of the staff were born and raised in Cochin so don't be shy about asking questions, they certainly aren't shy about sharing their love for its storied past. Frequenting artsy cafes and strolls by the beachfront are all in a day's work at Old Harbour.
From $110 person/night
One of Cochin's most famous landmarks, the Chinese Fishing Nets, are right next door and some rooms have a view over their dock.
The chef is more than happy to whip up local favourites for breakfast, so be sure to put in a word the night before.
The rooms are heritage in every way so don't expect modern fittings, but you can request a TV if you wish.
In the hotel's large and leafy garden, you'll find a tranquil pool under a giant mango tree and a lotus pond, which is rather pretty when the flowers bloom in the morning. Enjoy traditional Ayurvedic treatments at the spa and yoga sessions on the open-air terrace. Old Harbour prides itself on its homemade bread, freshly-squeezed juices and a unique seafood menu served to live music in the garden - don't skip the Kerala fish curry!
Decorated with quirky art and vintage furnishings (including light switches and ceiling fans), the 13 spacious rooms are named after the oldest streets in Cochin. Looking out over the scenic courtyard or the sea-sprayed docks, each room comes with a minibar, air con, wardrobe, tea/coffee facilities and a living area. The mod en-suite bathrooms have a range of organic toiletries and the hotel's garden cottages come with open-air showers, a veranda and private pond.
Living up to its name, the Chinese Fishing Nets are a stone's throw away and for a small fee, local fishermen will show you how they work. The hotel's owner runs Kashi Art Cafe, which puts on some fantastic exhibit throughout the year and just down the road, you'll find Princess Street, a feast of crafts and historic buildings. Visit the Matancherry Palace to see its collection of stunning murals and catch a mesmerising dance show at the Kerala Kathakali Centre.