The beach and stunning sunset here on the Malabar coast is alone worth flying down for. Everybody likes a good beach (don’t they??) and this is about as easy as it gets. Your room is within reach, there’s always a hammock available under the palms and there are very few hawkers about, just a few locals and other guests.

The pool is big, great for lengths, and bordered by sun loungers with umbrellas for shade. There’s a changing area adjacent with towels and showers. Also next to the pool is a small bar. This is such an easy place to spend the whole day if you really just want to do nothing.

Take a walk with the in-house nature guide, there’s lots to see, from different varieties of tropical flora to the lovely butterfly garden bursting with colour (take a camera). You can also tour the organic vegetable garden (and do a cookery class with the veggies you pick!) and see other elements of the resort’s eco-friendly credentials.

Borrow a bicycle and roam around Mararikulam and the surrounding area, see coastal village life first hand and experience the sights and sounds of rural Kerala.

Ayurvedic massage and treatments are available in open-air rooms set in the gardens. There are 2 male and 2 female rooms.

Shop for souvenirs, books and local products from the shop next to reception. It’s a little pricey but there are some nice gifts to be had.

Yoga happens every day at 7.15amm either in the yoga centre or on an open-air platform near the beach. Classes are included in your stay.

There are outdoor badminton and tennis courts, which are well maintained.

Boat tours are within easy reach, embarking from nearby Alleppey. Take this opportunity if you can, tours can be just half-day and with lunch included.