Vivanta by Taj Connemara

Connemara has history at its centre; the grand lobby is embellished with South Indian stonework below the original lattice ceiling. Raintree serves traditional cuisine in an al fresco setting and you can tuck into a hearty English breakfast at The Verandah with a view over the garden. The Jiva Spa has a selection of therapies from Indian head massages and luxuriating body scrubs. After a morning of city exploration, enjoy a dip in the pool in its courtyard of frangipani trees. Pick up a souvenir or two at the Tak Khazana boutique.

Shades of cream are mixed with dark wood furnishings and rich patterned carpets, and large windows let in plenty of light. Framed images of maps and historic buildings decorate the walls and each room comes with a king-size bed, air con, TV, minibar, and en-suite bathroom with terry cloth robes (plus a rain shower in some). The luxury suites have access to a complimentary cocktail hour and a private lounge and check-in desk. Some suites also come with a patio, living area and a walk-in closet.

Begin with a tour of the hotel where you can soak up the history and anecdotes from its beginnings as 'the house on Choultry Plain'. Chennai is a city of blended cultures and the historic buildings to prove it. Visit the fascinating Government Museum with its hallways lined with artefacts, enjoy seaside walks down Marina Beach and take in the colourful architecture at Shiva Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Stroll through the local markets and laneways to snack on murukku (pretzels) and pick up lovely embroidered accessories.