India's Beaches of Goa, Backwaters of Kerala (10 days)

On the first day of your relaxing India itinerary, you’ll arrive at Trivandrum Airport, known as the gateway to Kerala, and transfer to Kovalam. This idyllic Kerala beach town is flanked by the Arabian Sea, fringed by rows upon rows of coconut palms. Check into your suite at Surya Sanmudra, and become acquainted with your new surroundings.

Today you are free to explore the beaches of Kovalam. There are three spectacular beaches that cover Kovalam’s expansive 17 km coastline. Lighthouse Beach is a particular favorite, while Hawah and Sanmudra are close seconds, and perhaps more ideal for escaping the tourist throngs.

One of Kerala’s most favorited features is its widespread network of backwaters, and the most ideal way to explore them is aboard a traditional wooden houseboat, called a kettuvallam, which built without a single nail. Today, you’ll board a luxury kettuvallam for an overnight cruise.

After your culturally-immersive nautical excursion, it’s time to get back onto dry land. You’ll disembark at Kumarakom, home to a rich ecosystem featuring mangrove forests, paddy fields, coconut groves, and all kinds of exotic birds. Transfer to your luxury backwater resort, Kumarakom Lake Resort.

After breakfast this morning, you’ll check out of your hotel and drive two hours to Cochin, West India’s major port city. You’ll be escorted to your luxury eco-resort, Brunton Boatyard, moored on a historic stretch of Cochin's famed harbour.

Today you’ll explore the best that Cochin has to offer, starting with the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, Paradesi Synagogue. Next up, learn how to mix together just the right ingredients to make a rich, flavorful Indian dish at an authentic Indian cooking class. Finish off your day with a colonial walking tour, learning the rich history of this city which was once a battle ground for European empires.

Goa is one of India’s most popular beach destinations, with miles upon miles of unspoilt beaches, as far as the eye can see. Some even say it’s home to Asia’s best beaches - why not judge for yourself once you check into your luxury room at the Leela Goa, or Taj Exotica Hotel. You’ll be transferred to your preferred hotel upon your plane’s arrival, and you may spend the rest of your day getting settled in.

Explore Goa’s sights today, with a tour that starts with Fort Aguada, a well-preserved 17th century Portuguese fort that overlooks the Arabian Sea. Next up, you’ll head to UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilica de Bom Jesus, which holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Cap your day off with a languid stroll along the shores of your preferred Goa beach.

You can enjoy more beach time today, with the freedom to explore the vastness of the Arabian Sea, and the white sand shores it laps upon. Agonda beach in south Goa is a particular favorite for those looking to get away from the crowds, while Anjuna beach in north Goa boasts a large flea market and picturesque sunsets. The choice is yours!

After a restful sleep on your final night of your Beaches & Backwaters itinerary, today you’ll check out of your luxury Goa resort and head for the airport, where you’ll transfer to your next destination.