Having been to Goa a couple of years ago, I'd like to try Kerala this time. Can you recommend a hotel at Kovalam ­ if possible somewhere a bit swish, with good food and relaxing atmosphere? Sandra Allen, London

Sunday Times travel expert Richard Green responds: The Leela (00800 4263 1355) has the most impressive setting, on its own rocky headland at the northern end of the beach. It's a striking design too, with white terraces cascading over the hillside. The main Howah and Lighthouse beaches are a short walk away, as is a quieter strip of sand to the north, where you'll still see the odd fishing vessel brought ashore.

It's a very smart hotel with good restaurants and a terrific bar overlooking the sea. Rooms in the main hotel are large and colourful, with a Mediterranean feel, and most have large private deck areas. Those in the club wing are designer style, with modish décor and bathrooms, and balconies high above the surf. Doubles start at £108, or £180 in The Club wing.

If you like intimate hotels, this one might not be for you though, as there are 192 rooms.

You'll get best value booking a package. Transindus (020 8566 2729), for example, has seven nights in a Superior Beach View room from £1,199pp (or a Club Room from £ 1499), including flights from London with Emirates (via Dubai), and transfers.

There is a more cosy feel at the nearby 52 room Taj Green Cove (00 800 4588 1825). It's a smart new property with nicely spaced rooms, lush gardens, and good infinity pool. The breakfast dhosas are the best for miles, and the sophisticated Curries restaurant does superb south Indian cuisine. The main drawback is that the hotel isn't on the beach.

There are free buggies to a private beach, about 10 minutes away, but it isn't pretty. And to be picky, the bar is a bit blasted aircon and dark. Doubles are from £111.

Kuoni has seven nights from £1,290pp, with flights from London with Emirates (via Dubai) and transfers.

Hayes & Jarvis (0871 200 4422), Abercrombie & Kent (0845 618 2200), and Trailfinders (0845 054 6060) also feature both hotels.

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