Vivanta by Taj Connemara, Chennai

Location

The Connemara is perfectly positioned in the centre of Chennai's commercial district, providing good access to the city's main sights and best shopping. Just 17km from the domestic airport, the hotel is also well placed for exploring the delights of the former French colonial port of Pondicherry and the wider Coromandel Coast in this endlessly fascinating southeastern corner of India.

Accommodation

In its art deco setting, the rooms and communal areas exude lavish modernity at the same time as recalling the past. Space is at a premium in city centres the world over, but here the minimum room size is 420 square feet, guaranteeing an airy retreat. Premium Indulgence rooms are graced by high ceilings and colonial columns, while the blue riband Presidential Nirvana Suite offers its own private courtyard and Jacuzzi.

Dining

Authentic southern Indian cuisine is served alfresco at The Raintree, lovers of Oriental cuisines from Thai to Taiwanese can check out Hip Asia, with all other tastes imaginable catered for poolside or indoors around the clock at The Verandah. For a pre- or post-prandial pick-me-up, head to Distil for the coolest cocktails in town.

Facilities

The Taj brand has a worldwide reputation for pampering, and the Jiva Spa at the Connemara will not disappoint. Reminisce on the lifestyles of the nawabs and maharajahs of back in the day as you indulge in petal-strewn baths, luxurious massages and ancient aromatic treatments guaranteed to soothe the tightest of muscles. More energetic activities can be found in the fitness centre, or you can just hang out beside the majestic pool.