It’s got quite possibly the longest-named capital city outside of Wales (Thiruvananthapuram – but you can call it Trivandrum), but Kerala’s beautiful beaches and overall tropical settings make it an increasingly popular holiday spot – especially since it’s just a hop, skip and a jump away, which is just perfect for a long weekend.

The beach resort of Kovalam is the place to go if you’re looking to soak up some rays; bask in the sunshine on the beautiful white beaches, take a dip in the turquoise waters of the Lakshadweep Sea and then grab a bite to eat from one of the local vendors. It’s so picture-perfect you might think you’ve walked into a postcard, with the bright blue sea offset by the lush tropical foliage of the coconut groves. If this isn’t a beach-lover’s paradise then we don’t know what is – so it’s no wonder that the landscape has inspired countless local poets and writers.

When you’re done with lounging on the beach, go for a wander along the crescent-shaped cove. The southernmost part has fabulous views of the local Vizhinjam mosque, the middle plays host to scores of fishermen setting out to sea at midday, while the northern part, Samudra, is laid-back personified – rather like the hippies that used to gather there back in the day.

This is a holiday spot that’s all about chilling out and letting go of your worries.

A visit to an Ayurvedic massage centre is a must, and the Leela Hotel offers a number of options if you want to dabble in the local, natural Indian healing arts; not only is Ayurvedic massage on offer, but there are detox and destress programmes as well as yoga and meditation. However, there’s plenty of smaller locations to visit for a much more authentic experience, which will likely see you stretched out on a wooden bed and pampered using traditional methods to cure your ills – either way, it’s a must.

Shopping next, and what girl can go on holiday without loosening the purse-strings? You’ll find few designer goodies to splash your cash on here (and those you do find might not be all they seem – ‘Channel’ anyone?) so best to steer clear. Instead opt for the local handicrafts. Keralites are incredibly talented when it comes to craftwork, and stores selling their wares can be found all along the beachfront – pop in for a browse and a chat with the shop owners, and you’ll walk away with a discount after a few cups of chai and some serious haggling.

While you're there...

Float free
Who says you have to stay land-locked? Hop aboard a houseboat and float freely through the palm-fringed waterways to explore the villages nestled amongst the vegetation and paddy fields. Off the beaten path, but definitely worth it!

Cool kathekali
Fancy trying your hand at the local dancing? Kathekali classes can be booked through most hotels, with the traditional dance being used to tell stories through movement. You get to wear lots of funky make-up too, which can take hours to apply.

Peri nice
Filled with rare species – including elephants and tigers – you can’t go to Kerala without visiting the Periyar National Park. Drift around on the central lake and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the elusive wild animals that live there.