Trinity

A stunning set of three contemporary suites in the former Indian headquarters of the Dutch East India Company, Fort Cochin

Trinity is a luxurious, private place to stay in the peaceful town of Fort Cochin, with its lemon-yellow buildings, palm-fringed beaches, mellow tree-lined streets and rich colonial history. The Indian headquarters of the Dutch East India Company for almost 150 years, Trinity is now a bright, white ultra-modern building 200 metres across the Parade Ground from its sister boutique hotel, The Malabar House.

More of a contemporary apartment than a hotel, Trinity consists of three beautifully-designed suites with outdoor bathrooms and sitting areas. There's also a communal dining and sitting room, a balcony with tables and chairs for outside breakfasts, and a small outdoor pool with decking area and a jogging machine. Everything is bright, beautiful, serene.

It's ideal for those who want a little more privacy than they'd get staying at a hotel. This feeling is intensified because it looks more like a smart art gallery from the outside than a place to stay - so people don't really know you're there.

Highs

• With only three suites and no restaurant, it's quiet and private
• Its rooms are chic, uncluttered and serene places to be
• Two rooms have delightful 'bath gardens'
• The service is impeccable
• The hotel has bikes to help you whizz about the peninsular

Lows

• The pool is very small, more suitable for cooling off than swimming
• There are no views from the rooms and all the windows have blinds on them
• It's expensive, but you do get the best
• You have to walk to Malabar House for dinner - though it's only 200 metres
• You're at the end of a peninsular; don't expect much of a nightlife