Stretching along the serene backwaters, this waterfront boulevard is not just a spot for leisurely strolls but also a hub of local life and activity. The Rainbow Bridge, with its stunning arching design, is a highlight, especially when illuminated at night. Along the way, visitors can explore a variety of shops, cafés, and street food stalls offering local delicacies. For a unique experience, hop on a sunset cruise to witness the breathtaking views of the Kochi skyline and the tranquil waters merging into the horizon.

A day trip from Madrid offers the perfect excuse to step back in time, and few places capture Spain’s medieval legacy quite like Ávila and Salamanca, both proudly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your adventure begins in Ávila, a walled city that appears lifted straight from the pages of a history book. Its imposing stone ramparts, punctuated by 88 defensive towers, encircle a beautifully preserved old town. Step inside and you’ll find Romanesque gems such as the Ávila Cathedral, part fortress and part place of worship, as well as the Basilica of San Vicente, famed for its architecture and colourful stonework. Ávila sits just over 100 kilometres from Madrid, and you can easily reach it by train or coach, both options run frequently throughout the day. From Ávila, continue west to the golden-hued city of Salamanca, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Its nickname, La Dorada, The Golden City, comes from the glow of its sandstone buildings, especially beautiful at sunset. Wander across the Plaza Mayor, often hailed as Spain’s finest square, then lose yourself among the cloisters, libraries and carvings of the historic university quarter. While Salamanca is delightful by day, it truly comes alive at night, its tapas bars and buzzing student energy make it tempting to extend your stay beyond a day trip.

Located just 30 kilometres from the city is the beautiful Vypin island with a mesmerising beach, and a 15-kilometre-long coastline sprinkled with sea shells and coconut trees. If you want to get away from the city and relax on a breathtaking island, Cherai Beach is the place to be.

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music features state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, including videos, interviews, musical and recording instruments, and tons of memorabilia, all of which, when put together, tell the fascinating story of American soul music.