They say “Once a year, go someplace where you’ve never been before.” After a long wait, Kerala happened and how.
Cochin – a major port city is regarded as the fastest growing second-tier metro in India. With tourism acting as a big draw, it usually is the most common port of entry to the God’s Own Country. My sojourn with Kerala started from Cochin with Ramada Resort as a first pit stop.
Thanks to the lovely management at Mystikal Holidays and Ramada Cochin, I was happy to have been invited for a 2D/1N stay experience at this 5 star Delux luxury retreat.
Incase you’ve missed my live Instagram & Snapchat stories, these pictures should give you a gist of the property.
Nestled in a picture-perfect locale amidst an ambiance of absolute serenity, Ramada Resort is a heaven of leisure for the city-weary soul, that is spread across sprawling 8 acres. A 37 km drive from the airport I reached Ramada resort at around 12:30 and was welcomed by Mr. Suresh Kumar – General Manager.
The check-in process did not take much time and I was immediately transferred to Luxury Lake View Cottage. The cottage was stylishly done with all the modern features and at the same time capturing the natural splendor of the land. Ensconced in idyllic serenity of the enchanting kumbalam lake – the cottage truly symbolized the concept of a “room with a view”
The bathroom was spacious with a separate WC and showering area.
Ramada Resort combines the best of both worlds – the ambiance of a resort and the amenities of a deluxe hotel. There are over 58 rooms and each offers a splendid view of the azure backwaters.
One of the major attractions of the resort is a massive 105-meter long swimming pool which is perhaps the longest swimming pool in the state of Kerala.
When it comes to banqueting – Ramada Resort is a local favorite with not only corporate crowd but also with most of the local celebrities. The banquet hall can easily accommodate around 2000 pax.
After freshening up, lunch was arranged at Fennel – the multi-cuisine restaurant which offers Continental and Coastal Indian delights. The theme of the restaurant is contemporary and yet it had ethnic touches of Kerala tradition.
Chemmen kambel Korathathu (Malabari styled grilled prawns), Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish) Malabar Aattirachi Curry (mutton cooked in a blend of roasted chillies and coconut), Kozhi Pidi Curry (Chicken & Rice dumpling cooked with aromatic spices), Beef Veluthalli Ularthiyathu (Stir fried beef and masala garlic), Appam and Adapradhaman were the dishes on offer. Each of these dishes were an absolute gastronomical delight. Chef Arun– Sous Chef was the brain behind the spread. He comes with an international experience of more than 14 years and his expertise was truly reflected in each of the dishes.
Post lunch, after a bit of relaxation, it was time for some serious pampering. A full body Abhyangam with steam was arranged at the Ayurvedic center. Each of the treatments offered are undertaken after consultation with, and under the supervision of expert Ayurvedic physicians. This synchronized massage technique was quite relaxing and refreshing.
After that relaxing massage, green tea at the balcony overlooking Kumbalam Lake was all I wanted for the evening.
Dinner was arranged at Pearlspot – an exclusive seafood restaurant that promises a cuisine you’d relish along with a view you’d cherish. Chef Ramu Butler – Corporate Executive Chef and F&B Manager helped me through the entire Pearlspot experience. Started off with the classic seafood cocktail with prawns and squid tossed in a spicy brandy cream which was then followed by a delicious Prawns & lobster bisque soup. Mains were from Nadan section of the menu. One of the major attractions of Pearlspot is the Fish Trolley. One could select their choice of the fresh catch and can have it prepared on the Lave stone or griddle which is then served with a choice of accompaniments. The sea-food platter on offer was mix variety of Nadan, goan, Indian and conti style. Absolutely loved it !
Chef Ramu Butler is quite popular not just for the food offerings at Ramada Cochin but also for the various initiatives that he is involved in.
Day 2 began with an early morning swimming session followed by a quick breakfast in the room itself. Post which was an early check-out to proceed to the next destination.
The setting of boats, the blue bay and the opulent radiance of the setting sun is surely worth a thousand words and needless to say my experience at Ramada Resort has been magnificent and I can’t wait to come back again.
Thumbs up for this one !
Vishal Fernandes is a seasoned traveller and a widely recognized blogger who has established himself as an authority on all things luxury. He loves wearing a blazer and has a fine collection of brogues. Vishal can mainly be found travelling the world and stopping off at some of the best hotels sampling their food & wines, or at some of the most prolific events. Along with his love for Food, Travel and wines, comes a massive enthusiasm for cars & watches.
