Explore:
Being right in the French Quarter, just a few minutes from the seafront, is about is good as it gets in Pondicherry. Being here is really about taking it easy, so relish the lack of traffic and spend a few days exploring the area’s sun-dappled streets on foot. There are quirky boutiques and little restaurants to enjoy, plus of course there’s the seafront which is nice to wander along during the day. *Note that the ‘beach’ here is stony and not for swimming.

Cycle:
Ask the hotel where you can hire a bicycle to trundle around the French Quarter. Traffic is increasing but many people still travel on 2 wheels. Here you can admire the lovely restored (and sometimes sadly crumbling) pastel-coloured mansions with their balconies adorned with vibrant flowers. The French Quarter is also a nice place to hang out in a café with a good book and watch time pass you by.

Pamper:
the massages and ayurvedic treatments here are a great reason to stay. The hotel also has an ayurvedic doctor who can advise on treatment and diet.

Swim:
the pool is just 15m long and if the hotel is busy it can get crowded, but at quiet times it’s great for a refreshing dip.

Sri Aurobindo ashram:
Head to the ashram on St. Gilles Street and pay homage to Sri Aurobindo and ‘the Mother’. This is not, strictly speaking, a tourist attraction, but visitors are welcome at set times and for those interested in their spiritual side it can prove an interesting experience. The ashram has a book and gift shop.

Auroville: 
Take a 20-30 min rickshaw/car ride to Auroville and experience a very unique and spiritual place. The Matri Mandir is an amazing, golden, domed temple and there are some good food and arts and crafts shops as well.

Beach:
For the beach, the best options are away from the city somewhat. Try heading north up the ECR road or head south a little to Paradise beach which is best accessed by ferry.