Muthoot Cardamom County Thekkady, Idukki, Kerala - 685 536. Ph: 04869 - 224501. e-mail: reservations@muthoothotels.com Website: www.muthoothotels.com Located in the idyllic wildlife township of Thekkady, Muthoot Cardamom County (MCC) has firmly entrenched itself as one of the top resorts in the area. Sitting right on the periphery of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one instinctively knows they are literally amidst carefree wildlife while at this resort. This four star resort rests atop a small hillock with its exotic little cottages that constitute each individual room tucked into the terraced slopes blending effortlessly into the landscape. Rooms are spacious, with interiors that are simple and elegant, always keeping in perspective the constant synergy between man and nature. Each cottage also has its own little patio from where guests can spend precious time imbibing the natural beauty around them. The architecture and landscaping at the resort has been diligently planned, particularly taking congruence with the natural habitat into full consideration. The resort is home to the multi cuisine restaurant, All Spice, which serves up an impressive range of cuisines, from the down right local Kerala Sadya(vegetarian feast) to the more contemporary salads, steaks and pastas, the famous kebabs and north west frontier cuisine. The folks at MCC are particularly proud of their exclusive Ayurvedic Spa, Ayura, which is set amidst the verdant landscape. This setting particularly befits this type of ancient herbal therapy that takes its cues from Nature for treatment as well as rejuvenation. There is a highly skilled team of Ayurvedic specialists at work at this spa, who take it upon themselves to make the Ayura experience one that frees the body, mind and soul from all tensions, aches and pressures. Within the resort itself, there are other amenities available, making sure that every guest’s requirements, for all kinds of weather, are completely catered to. There is a health club, swimming pool, gymnasium, recreation room, yoga room, billiards room, library and a souvenir store to keep everyone busy even while at the resort. For those who want to bring business to higher heights, there is even a well equipped mini conference hall that seats 300 persons. This is what they mean when they say you are really stuffed with choice! “Tourism with a conscience.” Muthoot Backwater Cruises Near Pallathuruthy Bridge, A C Road, Alappuzha Dist, Kerala. Ph: 0477 - 2269932. e-mail: reservations@muthoothotels.com Website: www.muthoothotels.com The success of Cardamom County led to the expansion of Muthoot’s hospitality venture. In 2005, MLHS began a new project, shifting away from the cool climes of the Thekkady hills to below sea level in the Kerala backwaters near Alleppey. The inclusion of the houseboat cruise has become part and parcel of every travel itinerary focused on Kerala. However, one really has to indulge in a Muthoot Backwater Cruise(MBC) for that one experience that is a step above everything else available in the booming houseboat market in Kerala. At MBC, the experience starts from the time one lands at the exclusive boat jetty in Pallathuruthy. The gracious and competent staff members welcome you with fresh coconut water at the jetty itself and then give a small presentation on the cruise that one will embark upon. They give a run through of the routes that will be taken and briefly explain sites that will be visited during the course of the tour. It is only following this introduction that guests embark on the journey. True luxury awaits on these houseboats. If one thought that living on a boat for a day would be a retreat to rustic ways, then better think again. Especially when you are on MBC! For one, the bedrooms are air-conditioned through out the day, hence one can remain in privacy if required. The bedrooms are plushly furnished to ensure that comfort is absolutely not compromised. Thanks to large picture windows that flank the walls of the bedroom, one can even see the exotic backwater life float by while lounging on the bed. There is also a small seating area lining the window frame, just in case you wanted a closer look at the life outside. Incidentally, the picture window is set at exactly the same height as the bed. On board, one really gets to experience first hand the small gestures that have been carefully thought out to ensure maximum contentment for the guests. For instance, the binoculars that are provided in the living area for a better view of the gorgeous scenery around, is a wonderful little amenity. Or even, the dining table that folds away into the wall, to provide maximum space in the living area. And of course, the tiny fibre optic lights that have been cleverly etched into the classy living room ceiling, to emulate a mystical galaxy of stars shining from above, whilst you sit inside the boat. Muthoot Backwater Cruises offer a backwater experience second to none. A luxurious sampling of the beauty of the unique waterways of Kerala. An experience that will ensure you come back for more and then maybe…some more! For more information: www.muthoothotels.com